Cozying up with a warm cup of cocoa is always soul soothing. This cocoa concoction will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but may also lift your mood. Natural cocoa powder is high in heart-healthy and mood-boosting flavonoids.
TIP
For a nut-free version of this hot cocoa, use oat milk and replace almond butter with 1/2 tsp (2 mL) coconut oil.
Ingredients
2 cups (500 mL) unsweetened almond milk or milk of choice
3 Medjool dates, pitted
2 1/2 Tbsp (37 mL) raw cocoa powder
1/2 tsp (2 mL) ground turmeric
1/8 tsp (0.5 mL) ground ginger
1/4 tsp (1 mL) ground cinnamon
Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
1 tsp (5 mL) unsalted almond butter
Directions
In small saucepan, bring almond milk and dates to a simmer over medium heat. Transfer to blender and add cocoa powder, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, black pepper, and almond butter. Blend on high until well combined and frothy.
Divide between 2 mugs and serve. To be extra decadent, consider topping with a spoonful of nondairy whipped topping and a grating of dark chocolate.
Each serving contains: 169 calories; 3 g protein; 5 g total fat (1 g sat. fat, 0 g trans fat); 34 g total carbohydrates (24 g sugars, 5 g fibre); 182 mg sodium
