Home-made hot chocolate | Easy recipe

When the temperature outside drops, the thought of a cup of hot chocolate becomes increasingly tempting. Can you imagine this time of year without a creamy, intensely cocoa-flavoured hot chocolate? Because I certainly can't! And do you know what's best? You can easily prepare this delicious drink at home with just a few ingredients. So, grab some good quality dark chocolate at your next opportunity – you won’t regret it. 

Interestingly, homemade hot chocolate doesn't have to be particularly unhealthy. Of course, it's more of a dessert treat. Such a drink will be high in calories, so it's worth serving it in smaller portions and only occasionally. However, the great advantage of preparing hot chocolate at home is that you have control over the quantity and quality of the ingredients used!

It's got to be the real deal – a strong cocoa version, so opt for dark chocolate (80% cocoa), which is less processed and contains less sugar. Adding natural cocoa is also a good idea. Instead of sugar, you could use maple syrup or honey for an extra flavour kick (but remember – it's still sugar). A bit of sweetness is necessary, but it shouldn't dominate, so don't go overboard.

Hot Chocolate – What Additions?

• Chilli - a pinch will add a nice kick, and such chocolate will certainly warm you up well

• Natural extracts - consider vanilla, almond, or orange for a subtle, aromatic twist

• Winter spices - cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg – any of these will work brilliantly

• Whipped cream - but only real cream, whipped at home – a little goes a long way

• A bit of molasses - it will add a delightful caramel flavour

If you're a fan of rich, chocolatey desserts, I've got some special treats for you to try: 

• Chocolate courgette cake | Easy recipe
• Chocolate black bean brownie (gluten-free)
• Chocolate pudding with avocado (protein)

Did you try this hot chocolate recipe? We would love to know what you think.

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