Spicy Dark Cocoa

Warm up your senses with a luxurious mug of Spicy Dark Cocoa, a decadent twist on traditional hot chocolate that brings bold flavors to the table. This recipe combines rich unsweetened cocoa powder and finely chopped dark chocolate for an intensely chocolatey base, elevated with a warm kick of cinnamon and cayenne pepper. Creamy milk and a splash of heavy cream ensure a velvety texture, while vanilla and a pinch of salt round out the flavors perfectly. Ready in just 15 minutes, this indulgent treat is perfect for cozy evenings or impressing guests with its combination of sweet, spicy, and aromatic notes. For an extra touch, top it with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a cinnamon stick for a café-worthy presentation. Whether you're seeking a winter warmer or a unique dessert drink, Spicy Dark Cocoa is your go-to recipe for comfort with a little heat.

Nutriscore Rating: 62/100

Prep Time:5 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:15 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons Unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 ounces Dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar (or sweetener of choice)
• 2 cups Milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 0.25 cups Heavy cream (or coconut cream for a non-dairy version)
• 0.5 teaspoons Cinnamon powder
• 0.25 teaspoons Cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 0.5 teaspoons Vanilla extract
• 1 pinch Salt
• 0 as desired Whipped cream (optional, for topping)
• 0 as desired Chocolate shavings or cinnamon stick (optional, for garnish)

Directions

Step 1

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, granulated sugar, cinnamon powder, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.

Step 2

Add 2 tablespoons of the milk to the dry ingredients and whisk until a smooth paste forms. This ensures there are no lumps in the cocoa mixture.

Step 3

Gradually pour in the rest of the milk and the heavy cream while continuously whisking to combine everything evenly.

Step 4

Set the saucepan over medium heat and warm the mixture, stirring frequently, until it begins to steam but does not boil (about 5-7 minutes).

Step 5

Reduce the heat to low and add the finely chopped dark chocolate. Stir until the chocolate has melted completely and the mixture is silky smooth.

Step 6

Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 7

Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level by adding more sugar or cayenne pepper if desired.

Step 8

Pour the spicy dark cocoa into mugs. Optionally, top with whipped cream and garnish with chocolate shavings or a cinnamon stick for presentation.

Step 9

Serve immediately and enjoy the warming, spicy flavors of this rich dark cocoa.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(661.5g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1014.1

Total Fat 64.3g	0%
Saturated Fat 39.4g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat g
Cholesterol 117.0mg	0%
Sodium 391.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 92.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 13.2g	0%
Total Sugars 68.8g
Protein 25.7g	0%

Vitamin D 200.0IU	0%
Calcium 738.5mg	0%
Iron 9.7mg	0%
Potassium 1447.6mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 55.0%

Protein: 9.8%

Carbs: 35.2%