My Super Easy, and Quick, Hot Cocoa Recipe is to die for! Indulgent, comforting and delicious it hits the spot and is a welcome reward after a day spent in our English Blustery weather! It takes just 2 minutes to make and contains 4 staple ingredients. Here’s how I make it…
Hot Cocoa? But It’s July!
It may well be, but I have just returned home from the school run in a Quilted Coat and a bobble hat. The weather in the UK is fickle. Just because its July and technically Summer, doesn’t mean a damn thing! ;o)
Here in the North West Of England, it could be cracking the flags on a Monday and freezing the pond on the Tuesday! You never know what ‘summer’ will bring! So…Hot Cocoa In July is really not all that unusual for me!
The Oldest Drink!
It all started in Mexico! Did you know that mankind has been knocking back Cocoa since 500 BC !? I kid you not!
It Began with the Mayans…They would make a drink from ground cocoa seeds, water, cornmeal and chilli peppers then blend all the ingredients together by pouring the liquid back and forth from a cup to a pot until a thick foamy, bitter drink formed. It was served cold and was accessible to both the poor and wealthy of society.
Fit for Royalty!
Cocoa made its way to Europe in the early 1500s. An Explorer by the name of Cortez, brought cocoa beans to Europe and the ancient cocoa drink soon gained popularity… even in Royal Circles! It is believed that King Charles V of Spain was particularly taken with the beverage and served it regularly throughout his court.
Welcome To The UK!
It wasn’t until the 1700’s that cocoa arrived on English shores and chocolate houses or(coffee shops) began to pop up across London. Hot Cocoa or / Hot Chocolate was soon made less bitter and more palatable with the addition of milk… and us brits fell hard for it!
Why My Hot Cocoa is Good for You!
Hard to believe isn’t it? You’re thinking….is this woman really trying to tell me that Hot Chocolate is a healthy choice?! Just bear with me, I swear I have a point! Take a look at the health benefits of this Hot Cocoa’s main ingredients…
Did You Know?
- Cocoa powder contains polyphenols and antioxidants that can help blood sugar levels, improve cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Cocoa powder is rich in theobromine, which is helpful in reducing inflammation and protecting you from diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer
Did You Know?
Honey contains antioxidants, which are helpful in protecting the body from inflammation. Inflammation can lead to a variety of health issues, including heart disease, autoimmune disorders and cancer.
Did You Know?
- Milk helps keep nerves, muscles, bones, skin and vision healthy.
- Milk helps to maintain healthy blood pressure levels
- Milk can help reduce tiredness and fatigue
- Milk helps to support and maintain normal growth and brain development
I bet you feel less guilty about supping a Hot Cocoa now don’t you ? ;O)
How To Make The Best Ever Hot Cocoa!
*As always the full detailed recipe can be found at the end of the post on the recipe card
Ingredients
- Cocoa powder
- Honey
- Vanilla Extract
- Boiling hot water
- Milk
Instructions
- Add Cocoa, Honey, Vanilla and Hot water into a large mug and mix together with a spoon until a gloopy consistency is formed.
- Top off with Milk, filling the mug just below the top.
- Place in the microwave for roughly 2 minutes until the cocoa begins to bubble and is steaming hot
- Take the mug out of the microwave and stir well
- Serve while hot.
Optional Toppings and Accompaniments
I should say that this Hot Cocoa requires no extras to make it wonderful. However, a little over indulgence is sometimes necessary, so here are some optional add ons you could try…
- Whipped Cream
- Marshmallows
- Cinnamon Stick to stir your Hot Cocoa
- Gingerbread man for dunking!
- Chocolate chips
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DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE ?
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The Best Ever Hot Cocoa Recipe
Ingredients
- 2-3 Heaped tsps Cocoa Powder
- 1 Tbsp Honey
- 1 Dash Vanilla Extract
- 1 Tbsp Boiling Hot Water
- 1 Mug Full Of Milk
Instructions
- Add Cocoa, Honey, Vanilla and Hot water into a large mug and mix together with a spoon until a gloopy consistency is formed.
- Top off with Milk, filling the mug just below the top.
- Place in the microwave for roughly 2 minutes until the cocoa begins to bubble and is steaming hot
- Take the mug out of the microwave and stir well
- Serve while hot.
*Any specific health claim or nutritional claims or information provided on the Website are for informational purposes only. Nothing on the Website is offered or intended to be a substitute for professional medical, health, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This Website is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You assume full responsibility for consulting a qualified health professional regarding health conditions or concerns.