What do you fancy when the weather is very cold? Maybe a hot chocolate? This yummy drink is more than a sweet drink, it’s a comforting classic, especially on Christmas. Its origin goes hundreds of years back, starting with the Aztec xocolātl (made with cocoa, chili, and vanilla). When the Spanish culture knew about this recipe in the 18th century, it evolved into the sweet and creamy chocolate we enjoy today.
In the last few years, there has been a trend toward spiced hot chocolate without dairy. This version respects the original flavors, avoids animal products, and still creates a creamy texture using pure cacao and natural thickeners. It is part of a larger movement to return to the roots of chocolate while adapting it to modern dietary needs. So, let’s learn more about this popular drink, and how you can make it at home!
Spiced hot chocolate is special
Spiced hot chocolate is delicious, but it also has benefits for our health. In case you didn’t know about this, here are some of the positive sides of this popular drink:
- Pure cacao (70% or more): it’s rich in flavonoids, antioxidants that help heart and brain health.
- Creamy texture without dairy: using cornstarch as a thickener keeps the drink smooth and rich without saturated fats.
- Digestive spices: cinnamon, clove, and black pepper improve digestion, which is helpful after heavy holiday meals.
This combination creates a warm, nutritive, and delicious drink that most people fancy when they want to feel cozy.
How to make spiced hot chocolate
I’m sure that after reading the many benefits of this drink you want to make one, right? So, here we are to tell you how you can make your own spiced hot chocolate. Let’s start with the most important thing in a recipe, the ingredients:
- 1 liter of water or plant-based milk (almond or oat, without additives).
- 200 grams of pure dark chocolate (minimum 70% cacao, no milk)
- Sweetener to taste (panela or stevia).
- Spices: 3 cinnamon sticks, 5 cloves, 7 black peppercorns, a pinch of nutmeg, orange peel, and 2 teaspoons of vanilla.
- 5 teaspoons of cornstarch (optional, to thicken).
Now that we have all the ingredients, let’s continue with the next step, the process:
- Heat water or plant milk with the spices until it begins to simmer.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for 5–10 minutes to create a strong infusion.
- Strain the liquid and return it to medium heat.
- Add chopped chocolate and dissolved cornstarch (in a little cold liquid). Stir in circles until the chocolate melts and thickens (2–3 minutes).
- Serve hot and enjoy a rich, spiced, and creamy drink.
Hot chocolate trends
This season, hot chocolate lovers are going for versions that are closer to the original recipes, without milk or added fats, and with bold spices. The spiced version connects people to centuries of history, from Aztec chocolate to Spanish adaptations, while offering modern health benefits. It is also part of a global trend where people look for natural and clean ingredients that are both nutritious and indulgent.
So…
Now you know the history and secrets of spiced hot chocolate, so you can enjoy your own warm drink whenever you feel like it. Imagine sitting on the couch with a blanket and watching your favorite movie, what an incredible plan.Why don’t you invite a friend or a family member and prepare this delicious drink for a perfect cold day?I’m sure the person you invite will love the idea.