Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti-Inflammatory Drink

December 2, 2025 by Mae

Why Make This Recipe

Spiced Hot Cocoa is not just a delightful drink; it also brings a boost of anti-inflammatory benefits. With warming spices like turmeric and ginger, this hot cocoa is perfect for cozy nights in, chilly afternoons, or a comforting treat after a long day. This recipe is easy to make and provides a sweet, rich flavor that helps you feel good inside and out.

How to Make Spiced Hot Cocoa

Ingredients:

2 cups of almond milk (or any milk of choice)
2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon of maple syrup or honey
1⁄2 teaspoon of ground turmeric
1⁄2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
1⁄4 teaspoon of ground ginger
1⁄8 teaspoon of ground cardamom
Pinch of ground black pepper
Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)

Directions:

In a medium saucepan, heat the almond milk over medium heat until steaming, but not boiling.
Whisk in the cocoa powder, ensuring there are no lumps.
Stir in the maple syrup or honey, mixing thoroughly.
Add the ground turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom to the saucepan, whisking continuously to blend all spices evenly.
Add a pinch of ground black pepper, which aids the absorption of curcumin in turmeric.
Allow the mixture to heat through for 2-3 minutes, continuing to stir to meld the flavors.
Remove from heat and pour the spiced hot cocoa into mugs.
Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, if desired.
Serve hot and enjoy the delicious and warming flavors.

How to Serve Spiced Hot Cocoa

Serve your spiced hot cocoa warm in a mug. You can add whipped cream or marshmallows on top for extra sweetness and creaminess. This drink pairs wonderfully with a cozy blanket and a good book or a fun movie night.

How to Store Spiced Hot Cocoa

If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Tips to Make Spiced Hot Cocoa

For a richer flavor, use dark cocoa powder instead of regular cocoa powder.
You can adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or honey, depending on your taste.
Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg or cloves, to find your perfect flavor blend.

Variation

You can easily make this recipe dairy-free by using almond milk or any other plant-based milk. If you want a creamier version, try adding a splash of coconut cream.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, such as cow’s milk, oat milk, or soy milk.

Can I use sweeteners other than maple syrup or honey?
Absolutely! You can use agave nectar or stevia as alternatives to sweeten your hot cocoa.

Is this drink suitable for children?
Yes, this spiced hot cocoa is suitable for all ages. Just be mindful of the spice levels and adjust them to your child’s taste.

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