Spiced Hot Cocoa Anti Inflammatory Drink (5 Ingredients!)
Creamy, golden hot chocolate infused with turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon. This warming drink satisfies chocolate cravings while supporting your body with anti-inflammatory spices. Rich, comforting, and ready in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1½ tablespoons unsweetened cacao powder
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch black pepper
- 1 cup milk of choice coconut, oat, almond, or dairy
- 1-2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract optional
Instructions
- Add cacao powder, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper to your mug. Mix with a fork to break up any clumps.
- Add 2 tablespoons of milk to the spice mixture. Stir vigorously until you have a smooth, thick paste with no lumps.
- Heat remaining milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling (small bubbles form around edges). Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Pour ¼ cup of hot milk into the mug with the paste, whisking constantly. Once smooth, gradually add remaining milk while continuing to whisk.
- Stir in maple syrup starting with 1 teaspoon. Taste and adjust sweetness. Add vanilla extract if using.
- Optional: Use a milk frother for 15-20 seconds to create foam, or pour between two containers several times. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
- Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cacao nibs
- Pair with protein-rich breakfast for sustained energy
- Double the ginger if feeling under the weather
- Increase turmeric to ¾ teaspoon for post-workout recovery
- Don't skip the black pepper, it increases turmeric absorption by up to 2000%
- Keep milk temperature under 180°F to preserve beneficial compounds
- Add ½ teaspoon coconut oil if using low-fat milk for better nutrient absorption
- Turmeric may stain light-colored mugs; rinse immediately after use