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Spiced Hot Cocoa

Rich, creamy hot cocoa with cinnamon, nutmeg, and warming spices for a cozy winter drink.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 7 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings: 2 servings
Course: Dessert, Snack
Cuisine: American, Autumn
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

Spiced Hot Cocoa
  • 2 cups whole milk or dairy-free alternative
  • 0.5 cup heavy cream optional
  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tbsp granulated sugar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • 0.25 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 0.125 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 0.125 tsp ground ginger
  • 1 pinch ground cloves
  • 1 pinch chili powder optional
  • 0.5 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Mugs

Method
 

  1. Heat milk and heavy cream in a saucepan over medium-low heat until steaming, not boiling.
  2. Whisk together cocoa powder, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, chili powder, and salt.
  3. Add the dry mix to the milk, whisking constantly until fully dissolved and smooth.
  4. Simmer gently for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently until slightly thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract. Taste and adjust sweetness or spices if needed.
  6. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a cinnamon stick.

Notes

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk.