When you want a hot and satisfying beverage that is energizing and delicious, then you should try this Healthy Hot Chocolate using cacao chips! This low-caffeine drink has no added sugars and is full of superfood ingredients.

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healthy hot chocolate served in a clear mug with a handle

As a healthy alternative to coffee, you might want to try this Healthy Hot Chocolate. Chocolate is known for being high in antioxidants and polyphenols. This recipe is great for chocoholics like me who adore the flavor of chocolate, but don’t want a sugar-filled recipe.

With only four ingredients, you can make this creamy and energizing hot drink. In addition to use 100% cacao chips that are completely sugar-free, I also included mushroom powder that has some research proving its superfood status. Ground cinnamon adds even more flavor, and cinnamon has research showing that it can lower blood sugar.

And, for people who are sensitive to coffee or who want a lower-caffeine alternative, this recipe is also perfect. I used herbal coffee which is made from dandelion root and chicory root. There is still a tiny bit of caffeine in this drink from the cacao chips, but it is very minimal.

photo with labeled ingredients for healthy hot chocolate

Recipe Steps

Step One

Gather your ingredients, including very hot water, cacao chips, herbal coffee powder, mushroom powder, and ground cinnamon.

As always, please do see the recipe card at the end of this post for the exact ingredients and measurements.

Step Two

Add the cacao chips to the bottom of your mug, and then pour the hot water on top. Whisk in the herbal coffee, mushroom powder, and ground cinnamon.

Step Three

Use a spoon, frother, or whisk to stir the hot chocolate. The cacao chips will melt fast, but you need to make sure the ingredients are all well combined. Serve your healthy hot cacao hot.

mug of hot cacao on a table

FAQs

Can I use cacao nibs instead of cacao chips in this hot drink?

No, because the cacao nibs will not melt.

What kind of mushroom powder do you recommend?

Different mushrooms can have different effects on the body. Always be sure to check with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet or supplement routine. But, I like the Lion’s Mane mushroom powder because it may help with memory and focus.

Doesn’t cacao have caffeine?

Yes, but it is very minimal. One tablespoon of cacao solids has about 12 mg of caffeine.

Can I use cacao powder or cocoa powder in this recipe?

You can, but cacao chips include a lot more fat than either cacao powder or cocoa powder, and that fat is very satiating. The fat also helps to make the hot cacao drink creamy.

Does this taste bitter? Can I add some sugar?

Unsweetened cacao can be bitter, but it is not more bitter than unsweetened black coffee. I find the slight bitterness to be pleasant and I do not add any sugar or sweetener to this recipe. But, you can, it is really just personal preference. See my list of the best sugar substitutes.

Other Energizing Beverages You Might Like

hot cacao served in a clear mug with a gold spoon

I hope you make this recipe! If you do, please leave a comment and a starred review below.

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healthy hot chocolate on a table with chocolate chips and cinnamon sticks

Healthy Hot Chocolate

★★★★★

5 from 1 reviews
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Description

When you want a hot and satisfying beverage that is energizing and delicious, then you should try this Healthy Hot Chocolate! This low-caffeine drink has no added sugars and is full of superfood ingredients.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon cacao chips
  • 6 ounces very hot water (about the temperature you would use to make hot tea)
  • 2 tablespoons herbal coffee
  • 1/8 teaspoon mushroom powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Add the cacao chips to the bottom of your mug, and then pour the hot water on top. Whisk in the herbal coffee, mushroom powder, and ground cinnamon.
  2. Use a spoon, frother, or whisk to stir the hot chocolate. The cacao chips will melt fast, but you need to make sure the ingredients are all well combined.
  3. Serve your healthy hot cacao hot.

Notes

  1. Be sure to use cacao chips for this recipe, not cacao nibs.
  2. This recipe contains about 12 mg of caffeine.
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: Combine and serve
  • Cuisine: Healthy

Keywords: cacao hot chocolate, herbal coffee drink, superfood hot drink

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