Coconut Hot Cocoa

I have been making this hot cocoa almost every night this week. It's been keeping me warm with the icy cold weather out there. Also, it is so warm, relaxing and helps me sleep like a rock. Maybe it is that same idea about having warm milk before bed. I don't see why you couldn't have this if you are avoiding sugar in the new year. It only has agave and pure cocoa powder. You don't have to worry about a sugar spike, and I promise you will not be disappointed. It is divine, and so easy.

After going dairy-free and sugar-free in the winter can be kinda miserable if you are a big hot chocolate fan. Sometimes you just need something thick and warm to really do the job of warming up your bones. I posted this recipe at the end of one of my cookie recipes a few weeks ago, but because it didn't get a post of it's own, and the attention it deserves... I am posting it for real!

The ONLY real down side to this hot chocolate is that you can't make it instant. You have to make it on the stove, and you have to take the time to really whip the cocoa powder and let the coconut milk bubble and foam just a bit. So, if you can get past that (which if you are reading this blog that shouldn't be a problem, because I have domesticated you already), you should really enjoy this tonight!
So let's get to the recipe, my love...


Coconut Hot Cocoa Recipe
1 cup of coconut milk beverage (nut, hemp and rice milk works too... in that order)
1 TB of cocoa powder (raw or baking) I get the organic dark, but any kind would work. Even give carob a try... make sure it is just the powder and doesn't contain any fillers or sugar.
1 TB of raw honey or agave nectar
1 ts. of organic EV coconut oil, which helps the ingredients blend together and add flavor and healthy fats for health and digestion.

optional additions: dash of cinnamon, cayenne, nutmeg, ginger, vanilla, orange peal, mint or more chocolate chips.

I make this cup of cocoa with a different spice every time. It is a custom way of making a cup of cocoa depending what kind of mood you are in.

This recipe is for ONE cup of cocoa, so if you are making for more, double it, triple it and more....
Pour the milk in a medium saucepan, and let it start to warm up. Add the TB of cocoa first, then the ts. of coconut oil. Use a whisk to whip of the milk and let the cocoa blend perfectly through the milk. Then add the agave and whisk in some more. Let it cook for about 4-5 minutes and then you we see it start to bubble just a bit. BE CAREFUL, if you let it stay on high heat and leave it alone, it my overflow your pan..... and also be careful that you do not take a sip right away because that milk is hot sista'. Pour it into a mug, hold it in your cold hands, and enjoy the aroma. Then after a few minutes of cooling, you can try your first sip. Hmmmm, perfect, and divine. I like to think of this treat as a dessert as well. That way I can avoid other snacking at night, or filling up more on something more rich or filling. This just just simple and delectable at the same time.

I hope you try this one out. Get some coconut milk beverage from So Delicious. They have the best brand, and it is carried at most health or grocery stores. And if you don't have any of that milk on hand, really any non-dairy milk will do, but to get the thick and creamy that you want, you have to stick with either the coconut, hemp or almond milks.

Now, settle in for the night and enjoy a mug for me. It's what's keeping me warm tonight!