Spicy Hot Chocolate Recipe – A Cozy and Flavorful Treat for Rainy Days and Winter Evenings
This Spicy Hot Chocolate Recipe is a delightful spin on the classic hot chocolate, adding warming spices for an extra kick. Ideal for chilly days or cozy evenings, this rich and creamy drink combines dark chocolate with a touch of cinnamon and pepper, creating a comforting treat that pairs beautifully with a slice of warm, fresh-baked banana bread. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe serves four and is sure to be a hit among chocolate lovers!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Milk | 3 cups |
| Dark chocolate, cut into pieces | 1 cup |
| Cinnamon powder (Dalchini) | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper powder | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper (optional) | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract | 1 teaspoon |
| Fresh cherries, for garnish | As desired |
| Slivered almonds (Badam), for garnish | As desired |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~250 kcal |
| Protein | ~5 g |
| Carbohydrates | ~28 g |
| Fat | ~15 g |
| Fiber | ~2 g |
Preparation & Cooking Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Begin by melting the dark chocolate using a double boiler. Place a pot of water over high heat and let it come to a boil. Place a heatproof glass bowl on top, ensuring no water seeps into the bowl. Add the chocolate chunks to the bowl. |
| 2 | Stir gently until all the chocolate melts, then turn off the heat and set the melted chocolate aside. This double boiler method prevents chocolate from burning and keeps it smooth. |
| 3 | In a separate pot, add the milk and heat it until it just begins to boil. Once it reaches a gentle boil, lower the heat to medium and gradually add the melted chocolate, stirring continuously for a smooth blend. |
| 4 | Add the cinnamon powder, black pepper powder, and optional cayenne pepper for a spicier kick. Stir thoroughly to incorporate the spices and vanilla extract, ensuring the chocolate thickens to your desired consistency. |
| 5 | Once the hot chocolate reaches a creamy, rich texture, turn off the heat. Pour the Spicy Hot Chocolate into cups, garnish with fresh cherries and slivered almonds, and serve immediately. |
Serving Suggestion
Serve this Spicy Hot Chocolate alongside a slice of Whole Wheat Banana Bread for an extra special treat. The warmth of the spices combined with the sweetness of cherries and crunch of almonds makes each sip a delightfully cozy experience!
