​5 Ways to make cafe-style Hot Chocolate with a healthy twist​

As the winter chills set in, it is time to indulge in some of the most delightful winter delicacies, and what can be better than diving into a piping hot cup of thick, creamy and chocolaty Hot Chocolate. There’s no denying that there’s something about cafe-style Hot Chocolate that we all love, but what about the sugar spike that hits hard right after drinking a cup of this warm delight. Well, we have curated some soul satiating Hot Chocolate recipes that are not just delicious, but are enriched with ingredients that are great for winter immunity. So, next time you crave for a nice velvety Hot Chocolate try out these healthy versions and enjoy!

This hot Chocolate recipe is a hot blend of chocolate, cocoa and some desi spices that will keep you warm and fit during the winter season. To make this creamy drink, boil 2 cups of full cream milk along with cardamom, cinnamon stick, ¼ tsp haldi powder, jaggery powder and black pepper, keep stirring over low heat. Then add dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa powder, keep stirring and cook till it is nicely thick and warm. This drink has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that help support joint health, reduces pain and respiratory congestion and heals inflammation.

This drink will instantly wake you up as the presence of ragi makes it a perfect winter potion for mental as well as physical well-being. This is because ragi is that one grain, which is known for boosting cognitive health and brain power. This drink is also great for managing insulin levels, ensuring a healthy heart and helps you lose weight easily. However, the taste and texture of this Hot Chocolate is completely like store bought drinks. To make this drink, add 2 cups of full fat milk/almond milk, and add in 2 tbsp ragi slurry made with warm milk and ragi flour, simmer the drink along with dark chocolate and unsweetened cocoa powder, salt. Once the drink is thick and indulgent, and in honey for sweetness. Serve hot!​

This one drink will take your soul on a trip to South India, this is because this indulgent delight is made by simmering coconut milk with 2 tbsp dark chocolate (70% cocoa), crushed cardamom, ginger, and cloves along with vanilla essence and dark chocolate. Lastly, add honey/ dates syrup after turning off the heat for that classic sweet taste. This drink is also great for balancing Vata dosha as per the books of Ayurveda, consuming these spices can naturally balance vata dosha.

If you are someone who loves experimenting with their blends, then this one is for you! To make this Cherry Hot Chocolate, blend ½ cup pitted cherries with 2 cup oat milk,then stir in 1 tbsp cocoa, ½ cup crushed dark chocolate, cinnamon, and lastly add honey after turning off the flame. Don’t simmer this drink too much. Cherries add melatonin for sleep and vitamin C, along with giving this drink a unique taste.

This Hot Chocolate will take your indulgence up a notch by adding a punch of peppermint, jaggery and fennel seeds. To make this drink, add 2 cups of soy milk to a pan along with dark chocolate compound, cocoa, fresh mint leaves, and a dash of fennel seeds; heat 5 minutes. Strain and froth. Mint eases bloating from festive meals, while fennel supports detox for a refreshing, low-calorie treat.