Extra-Dark Honey Sweetened Hot Cocoa

Extra Dark Honey Sweetened Hot Cocoa
Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD
Total Time: 5 min
Prep Time: 0 min
Cook Time: 5 min
Servings: 2 (6-ounce cup each)

Nutrition Highlights (per serving)

124 calories
1g fat
25g carbs
7g protein
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Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2 (6-ounce cup each)
Amount per serving  
Calories 124
% Daily Value*
Total Fat 1g 1%
Saturated Fat 1g 5%
Cholesterol 4mg 1%
Sodium 79mg 3%
Total Carbohydrate 25g 9%
Dietary Fiber 2g 7%
Total Sugars 22g  
Includes 12g Added Sugars 24%
Protein 7g  
Vitamin D 2mcg 10%
Calcium 232mg 18%
Iron 1mg 6%
Potassium 378mg 8%
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calorie a day is used for general nutrition advice.

You don't need a packet, a mix, or even heavy cream to make a delicious cup of sweet, hot cocoa. It’s easy to make from scratch with just four simple ingredients.

This extra dark hot cocoa recipe uses dark chocolate for a rich, luxurious taste and a little antioxidant boost. It can be made with whatever milk you have on hand and it's sweetened with honey. Pop a couple of marshmallows on the top of your drink, and you have a warm, delicious treat that's sure to lift your spirits.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 cups skim milk (or milk of choice)
  • 1 1/2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened dark chocolate cocoa powder
  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
  • Marshmallows for topping (optional)

Preparation

  1. In a small saucepan, whisk honey and cocoa powder with 1/2 cup of milk. Heat over medium-low heat and whisk until cocoa is dissolved.

  2. Add remaining milk and continue to heat until simmering.

  3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla. Pour into two mugs and top with marshmallows if you desire.

    Ingredient Variations and Substitutions

    For a dairy-free version, use a plant-based variety, like almond or soy milk.

    For vegan cocoa, use plant-based milk and substitute maple syrup for the honey.

    Use the highest quality cocoa powder you can find for the best results.

    Cooking and Serving Tips

    Heat over low heat to avoid scorching or curdling the milk. 

    Warm cups in advance so that cocoa stays warm after serving.

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By Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD
Kaleigh McMordie, MCN, RDN, LD, is an intuitive eating registered dietitian with a master's in clinical nutrition.