This chai-spiced version of the classic drink, Hot Chocolate, is hard to beat. This spiced treat has a warming flavor, is oh-so chocolatey, and is perfectly sweet. This is winter comfort in one mug.
Origins of Chai
Masala Chai is a spicy, creamy tea that is most popular in India. However, it is now enjoyed all over the world. Spices used in the tea vary according to recipe but include cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom.
This chai-spiced chocolate is inspired by the sweet, spicy, warming flavors of masala tea but with a chocolate twist! To learn more about the delicious Indian tea and for a more authentic recipe, watch this video by Bhavna’s Kitchen.
How to make Chai-Spiced hot chocolate
Let’s start with the basics: sweetness, creaminess, chocolateiness, and spice.
The light coconut milk gives the best results. However, any milk can be used! Then add cocoa powder or cacao, dates to sweeten, and spices like ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. The addition of black pepper, cloves, nutmeg, and chai spices is optional but highly recommended.
Blend the ingredients and then taste it. Do you love cinnamon? Add more cinnamon. Do you have a sweet tooth? We love sweets, too! Add another date. You can adjust the recipe to your preferences and then warm it on the stovetop.
Ingredients
- One cup of canned coconut milk light (we like Whole Foods 365, but you can use any dairy-free milk).
- If you are not using coconut milk, replace 1 cup of water with additional dairy-free milk.
- 2 Tbsp cocoa powder (or cacao powder)
- 3-4 large Medjool dates, pitted
- 1 1/2 tsp of cinnamon
- 1-1 1/2 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- Cardamom ground to 1/8 tsp
- Sea salt, one pinch
- One pinch of black pepper ( optional).
- One pinch of ground nutmeg (optional)
- One bit of ground cloves ( optional
Instructions
- Blend on high for about a minute until smooth and creamy, with no visible dates. Add another date for sweetness, if desired.
- Stir occasionally as you heat the mixture over medium heat. This will take about 3-5 min.
- Serve warm with Coconut Whipped Cream (optional) or marshmallows. The leftovers can be stored in a jar or container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
