Chai Hot Chocolate

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 2 large mugs (or 3–4 small cups)

Ingredients:

2 cups (480 ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)

2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder

2–3 tablespoons sugar, honey, or maple syrup

1 chai or black tea bag (optional)

1 small cinnamon stick

3–4 green cardamom pods, lightly crushed

2–3 whole cloves

3 thin slices fresh ginger

Small pinch ground nutmeg

½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Small pinch fine salt

Whipped cream or marshmallows, for topping (optional)

Extra cinnamon or cocoa, for dusting (optional)

Instructions:

Warm milk with cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, and salt until steaming.

Add chai or black tea bag (if using) and steep on low for 3–5 minutes; remove tea bag.

Whisk cocoa, sweetener, and a little hot spiced milk into a smooth paste.

Return cocoa paste to saucepan with remaining milk and heat gently, whisking until hot.

Strain out spices, then stir in vanilla and adjust sweetness.

Pour into mugs, top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and dust with cinnamon or cocoa.

Nutrition (Calories)Approx. 220–280 calories per large serving (varies with milk and sweetener); best enjoyed as an occasional cozy treat or dessert drink.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5

Cook Time 10

Total Time 15

Servings: 2

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: American

Calories: 280

Notes

Pro Tip:
Bloom cocoa with hot milk before combining and keep the mixture just below a simmer for a silky texture and deep chocolate flavor.