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Enjoy this hot chocolate with coconut whipped cream during a cold evening with a family.

Hot Chocolate With Coconut Whipped Cream

Hot Chocolate, a timeless beverage that transcends seasons, is a delightful elixir that warms the soul and is made with simple ingredients.  When paired with the velvety richness of coconut whipped cream, this classic drink transforms into a luxurious experience that beckons indulgence. 

This Hot Chocolate with coconut whipped cream is perfect for a wintery snow day! Made with raw cacao, honey with a hint of coconut, and flavored with vanilla. This cocoa is creamy, rich, lovely, and best enjoyed with a large helping of whipped coconut cream, It is perfect for the holiday season or Christmas morning!

Oh yes, it is the perfect time of the year for hot Chocolate! I love hot Chocolate so much, especially the healthy version I make… and the holiday season simply doesn’t feel like the holiday season without a cup of hot Chocolate! I love snuggling by the fire with my dogs, wrapped up in a blanket and sipping a cup of hot Chocolate.

This creamy hot chocolate brings on many memories from my childhood… family traditions, and the warmth of my home. Winter in Poland could be really cold, but I remember that I used to play outside all the time. I was the kind of child who couldn’t sit still and wanted to be outdoors pretty much all the time. I always knew, though, that a piping-hot mug of hot Chocolate would be waiting for me when I returned! It was such a great treat!

Of course, this healthy hot Chocolate, in particular, wasn’t the healthiest recipe in the world, but it sure did taste delicious! So, I came up with a more nutritious version (and a great recipe!) that is both nostalgic and yummy!

I can hear you asking why I suggest drinking hot Chocolate. My clients are always surprised when I recommend doing so. I always suggest a square of Chocolate or decadent hot Chocolate as a treat. I only use raw cacao, the purest cacao you can consume. It is less processed than the cacao you can buy in the regular store.

‘Cocoa’ is the term used to refer to the ‘heated form’ of cacao – the kind you likely grew up buying at the store, in the form of cocoa powder. Cacao contains high levels of antioxidants (it is the best source of flavonoids), which support anti-aging. Cacao contains high levels of magnesium, which helps us with hormone balance, stress relief, and sleep. High-flavanol cacao can help reduce stress, aid in insulin control, and increase endorphins, our ‘feel-good’ hormones.

Raw Cacao is rich in fiber, protein, and natural carbohydrates. It is cholesterol-free and contains monounsaturated fats and minerals (including iron, zinc, magnesium, potassium, copper, calcium, and manganese). In its raw form, Chocolate is the most delicious food on earth (in my humble opinion!).

Why Use Coconut Whipped Cream?

I’m a massive fan of coconut and will use it whenever possible. But you are welcome to use a dairy cream made of heavy whipping cream. 

Hot Chocolate Is Great For Women!

I know cravings have a bad reputation, but they tell you what your body needs. Women usually crave Chocolate a week before their period because their levels of iron and magnesium drop rapidly. Your body is so intelligent, and it knows that it needs more iron and magnesium, so it craves them in Chocolate. (Thank you, body!) Every time I crave something, I know I must miss those diet nutrients. Listen to your body; it will always tell you what you need.

We always feel good after eating Chocolate. That is all because Chocolate contains anandamide, a neurotransmitter that elevates mood. Eating Chocolate before your period serves as an antidepressant and improves your mood (uhm, yes, please!) Chocolate contains phytochemicals such as flavonoids, compounds produced by plants and beneficial to human health. Isoflavones, called phytoestrogens, are similar to estrogen. Consuming Chocolate can boost your estrogen levels… so that will be helpful if you have an estrogen deficiency, especially during menopause.

So, don’t feel guilty about Chocolate! It is one of the healthiest desserts you can have! Just make sure it doesn’t have a lot of sugar… and remember, the darker the Chocolate, the better it is for you!

Other Health Benefits of Hot Chocolate

delightful treat for your taste buds but also offers some potential health benefits:

Antioxidant Richness: High-quality chocolate, especially dark chocolate, is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants help combat oxidative stress in the body, contributing to overall health and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Heart Health: The flavonoids in chocolate may positively affect heart health by improving blood flow, reducing blood pressure, and enhancing vascular function. Additionally, coconut whipped cream, when made from milk, provides healthy fats that may support heart health.

Mood Enhancement: Chocolate contains compounds that can stimulate the production of endorphins, the “feel-good” hormones. Enjoying a cup of hot Chocolate can contribute to a sense of happiness and relaxation.

Bone Health: Both chocolate and coconut milk contain minerals such as calcium and magnesium, essential for maintaining healthy bones and teeth.

Dairy-Free Alternative: For individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a dairy-free diet, coconut whipped cream is a delicious alternative to traditional dairy toppings.

Improved Cognitive Function: Some studies suggest that the flavonoids in Chocolate may positively affect cognitive function, potentially enhancing memory and cognitive performance.

Reduced Stress: Sipping a warm beverage, such as hot chocolate, can have a soothing effect on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and helping to alleviate stress.

Dietary Flexibility: Coconut whipped cream offers a dairy-free option, making it suitable for individuals with dairy allergies or those who choose to follow a vegan lifestyle.

Ingredients For This Vegan Hot Chocolate

For Hot Chocolate:

Coconut milk (or any of your choice. I also like to use goat milk, cashew milk, or any non-dairy milk such as oat milk, etc.)

Raw Cacao

Honey (or any sweetener of your choice, such as coconut sugar, maple syrup, etc.)

Vanilla 

Raw Chocolate (optional- easy to find in healthy food stores)- will add even more rich chocolate flavor.

For Coconut Whipped Cream:

Coconut cream from the fridge 

Coconut sugar

Vanilla extract

Optional Garnishes:

Chocolate shavings

Cinnamon sticks

Whipped cream (dairy or non-dairy)

Marshmallows (choose the healthier option if you can!)

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make Hot Chocolate with Coconut Whipped Cream:

Heat the Milk:

• In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent scalding.

Add Chocolate and Cocoa Powder:

• Once the milk is warm, add the (finely chopped chocolate or chocolate chips – if you decide to use it) and raw cacao powder. Continue stirring until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.

Sweeten and Flavor:

• Add a sweetener of your choice and a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste.

Add Vanilla Extract:

• Stir in the vanilla extract, infusing the hot Chocolate with a delightful aroma. Continue to heat until the hot Chocolate is thoroughly warmed.

Serve:

• Pour the hot chocolate into mugs, then add optional garnishes such as chocolate shavings or a cinnamon stick. I also like to add peppermint extract, coconut extract, and sometimes a pinch of cayenne pepper to give it a unique flavor.

Coconut Whipped Cream:

• full-fat coconut milk or coconut cream refrigerated overnight
• coconut sugar
• Vanilla extract:

Chill the Coconut Milk:

• Place the can of coconut milk in the refrigerator overnight. This allows the coconut cream to separate from the liquid.

Separate the Cream:

• Carefully open the can without shaking it. Scoop out the thickened coconut cream that has risen to the top, leaving the liquid behind.
• If you are using coconut cream, you scoop the entire thing. Coconut cream does not contain any water. It is just pure coconut cream.

Whip the Coconut Cream:

• In a mixing bowl, whip the coconut cream using a hand mixer or stand mixer until it reaches a creamy consistency.  
• Add sweetener and vanilla extract, continuing to whip until well combined.

Serve:

• Put a dollop of coconut whipped cream on top of the hot chocolate in each mug. Optionally, garnish with more chocolate shavings or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.

Enjoy:

• Sip and savor the decadence of your hot Chocolate with coconut whipped cream, relishing the rich flavors and creamy texture.

Why To Make a Homemade Hot Chocolate?

Hot Chocolate made at home with coconut whipped cream has several advantages over store-bought versions, offering a more personalized, flavorful, and potentially healthier experience. 

Quality Ingredients:

• When you make hot chocolate at home, you have control over the quality of ingredients; hence, you can choose a better quality chocolate with your preferred cocoa content instead of mass-produced store-bought options.

Customization:

• Homemade hot chocolate allows for customization based on personal preferences. You can adjust the sweetness, choose your preferred type of cacao, and experiment with different milk alternatives.

Freshness:

• Homemade hot Chocolate is made fresh, ensuring that you enjoy the optimal flavors and aromas. Store-bought options may contain preservatives or stabilizers, and the taste might be affected by a longer shelf life.

Dietary Considerations:

• Making hot Chocolate at home allows you to cater to specific dietary needs. For example, coconut whipped cream provides a dairy-free alternative and is suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan diet.

No Artificial Additives:

• Homemade hot Chocolate avoids using artificial additives, colors, and flavors sometimes found in store-bought versions. This makes it a cleaner and more natural option.

Cozy Experience:

• Making hot Chocolate at home contributes to a cozy and comforting experience. The aroma of melting Chocolate, the warmth of the stove, and the anticipation of sipping a homemade treat add to the overall enjoyment.

Reduced Sugar Content:

• Homemade hot Chocolate allows you to control the amount of sugar added, promoting a healthier beverage option. Store-bought versions may contain higher sugar levels for mass appeal.

Artisanal Presentation:

• The ability to garnish and present your homemade hot Chocolate with care adds an artisanal touch. From chocolate shavings to cinnamon sticks, you can elevate the visual appeal of your drink.

Now enjoy and drink in your favorite mug with a healthier version of vegan marshmallows! 😊

If you make this creamy coconut hot chocolate, leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to every comment. And, of course, if you make this recipe, remember to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!

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Medicinal Mushrooms Hot Chocolate

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