Warm up your soul with a mug of rich, authentic Mexican Hot Chocolate. Infused with a kick of chili powder and the warmth of cinnamon, this spicy-sweet concoction is a traditional treat that combines the complex flavors of ancient Mexico with the comforting embrace of cocoa. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a festive holiday drink, this Mexican Hot Chocolate recipe is easy, quick, and sure to heat things up in the most delicious way possible.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of milk (whole or your preferred plant-based alternative)
- 100g of high-quality dark chocolate, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- A pinch of chili powder (adjust to taste)
- A splash of vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon of brown sugar (optional, depending on sweetness of chocolate)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
- Cinnamon sticks (for garnish)
- Grated chocolate or cocoa powder (for garnish)
Instructions
- Gather all the ingredients needed for this Mexican Hot Chocolate recipe, ensuring you have everything within reach for a smooth preparation process.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer gently, being careful not to let it come to a boil.
- Stir in the finely chopped dark chocolate, and mix well until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Add the ground cinnamon, a pinch (or more) of chili powder, and vanilla extract to the chocolate mixture. Stir continuously until all the ingredients are well combined.
- Taste the mixture and decide if you’d like it to be sweeter. If so, add brown sugar to your liking, and stir until the sugar has fully dissolved.
- Once your Mexican Hot Chocolate is fragrant and heated through, remove the saucepan from the heat.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs with care to avoid spills.
- Top each mug with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a sprinkle of grated chocolate or a dusting of cocoa powder.
- Serve the Mexican Hot Chocolate immediately, letting the spicy and sweet flavors warm you up from the inside out.
Nutritional Information
Enjoying a cup of Mexican Hot Chocolate means indulging in a rich source of antioxidants, thanks to the dark chocolate. The spices not only enhance the flavor but also offer their own set of health benefits—cinnamon for blood sugar control and chili powder for a boost in metabolism.
Customization Tips
- Vegan-Friendly: Use plant-based milk and vegan dark chocolate to make this recipe suitable for a vegan diet.
- Extra Spice: For those who love an intense kick, increase the amount of chili powder gradually to suit your taste.
- Sweeten Naturally: Substitute brown sugar with honey or maple syrup for a natural sweetener alternative.
- Alcohol-Infused: Add a shot of Kahlúa or a splash of rum for an adult version of this cozy drink.
Conclusion
This Mexican Hot Chocolate with Chili Powder and Cinnamon recipe is more than just a drink—it’s a comforting experience that brings a piece of Mexican culinary tradition into your home. Whether you’re looking to unwind after a long day or seeking a unique beverage for a holiday gathering, this spicy, chocolaty delight is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
