When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing like wrapping your hands around a warm mug of hot chocolate. This Healthier Hot Chocolate recipe is perfect for those who crave a decadent treat without the excess sugar. Sweetened naturally with dates and enriched with almonds, this hot chocolate has all the richness and comfort of a traditional recipe but with a wholesome twist. It’s creamy, indulgent, and packed with antioxidants from the dark chocolate and cocoa powder.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This hot chocolate is:
- Naturally Sweetened: The dates add natural sweetness and fibre, making this drink more filling and healthier than store-bought mixes.
- Rich in Flavour: With dark chocolate and cocoa powder, it delivers a deep, luxurious chocolate taste that will satisfy your cravings.
- Nutrient-Dense: Almonds provide healthy fats and protein, while cocoa powder and dark chocolate are loaded with antioxidants.
Tips for Making the Best Healthier Hot Chocolate
- Soak Your Dates and Almonds: Allowing them to soak in hot milk softens the dates and almonds, making them easier to blend into a smooth paste.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter hot chocolate, add an extra date or low-calorie sweetener like monk fruit or stevia.
- Use Good Quality Dark Chocolate: Opt for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a more intense flavour and added health benefits.
- Choose Your Milk: This recipe works well with dairy milk or your favourite plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I make this hot chocolate vegan?
Yes! Simply swap the milk for a plant-based alternative, like almond, oat, or coconut milk, and ensure your dark chocolate is dairy-free.
Can I skip the almonds?
Yes, but they add a lovely creaminess and extra nutrition. If you need to omit them, try using almond milk for a similar flavour.
Healthier Hot Chocolate
Course: SnacksDifficulty: Easy2
servings5
minutes5
minutes10
minutesIngredients
4 pitted dates
8 almonds
1½ cups milk
4 tbsp cocoa powder
½ cup water
¼ cup dark chocolate chips (or chopped dark chocolate)
½ tsp vanilla extract
Directions
- In a small bowl, soak the pitted dates and almonds in ½ cup of hot milk for 30 minutes. This will help soften them for easier blending.
- After soaking, transfer the dates, almonds, and milk to a blender. Add the cocoa powder and water, then blend until you have a smooth paste.
- In a saucepan, heat the remaining milk over medium heat until warm.
- Stir in the blended mixture, dark chocolate chips, and vanilla extract. Stir continuously until the chocolate has melted and the ingredients are well combined.
- For a thinner consistency, add a bit more milk or water until you reach your desired thickness.
- Pour into a mug and enjoy!