Starbucks Hack: Hot Chocolate
Please, don’t boycott this one, okay? Besides being super tasty, it’s also good for your health because it won’t upset your stomach!
Hi, Bestnic! Rainy weather like this calls for something warm to drink, right? But going to coffee shops can burn a hole in your pocket! Not to mention, you end up with an upset stomach after. 🥴 That’s why today I’m sharing an awesome hack for you hot chocolate lovers who want something healthier and tummy-friendly.
Do you still go to coffee shops just to order hot chocolate because you can’t drink coffee? Then, after paying a hefty price, you end up with an upset stomach because cow’s milk doesn’t agree with you? If that sounds like you, you need to keep reading!
Coffee shop hot chocolate is tempting, but who says you can’t make a healthier and equally delicious version at home? Here’s the solution: vegan-friendly, dairy-free Hot Chocolate!
- Tummy-Friendly and Dairy-Free
This hot chocolate uses plant-based milk, so it’s lactose-free. You can choose almond, oat, or soy milk to suit your taste. Plant-based milk isn’t just delicious but also healthier and perfect for those allergic to cow’s milk or prone to tummy troubles after drinking it.
For a more satisfying experience, you can even make homemade plant-based milk! I’ve shared an easy recipe for almond milk before, so check out that post. Almond Milk
- Naturally Sweetened with Dates
Refined sugar? Bye-bye! This recipe uses organic dates as a natural sweetener. Not only do they make the hot chocolate super creamy, but they’re also packed with fiber and nutrients like magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6. So, it’s not just sweet—it’s nutrient-dense!
- The Power of Dark Chocolate and Raw Cacao
Everyone knows dark chocolate is delicious, but did you know it has numerous health benefits too? Studies show that dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, which are great for heart health. Plus, the raw cacao powder used in this recipe is a fantastic source of magnesium, helping you relax and sleep better.
Just make sure to pick dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao content. If possible, go for options without added sugar or dairy to keep it vegan-friendly.
The secret to this hot chocolate lies in the organic dates. Blend the dates with raw cacao powder until smooth. Add a little hot water if needed to make blending easier. Then mix it with warm plant-based milk and chopped dark chocolate. Don’t forget to add vanilla paste for an irresistible aroma. Stir well, pour into your favorite mug, and enjoy!
Dark chocolate isn’t just tasty; it also offers several health benefits that’ll convince you to indulge:
-
Mood Booster
Dark chocolate contains theobromine, which helps improve mood. Having a bad day? A cup of this hot chocolate is the perfect pick-me-up, Bestnic! -
Heart Health
The flavonoids in dark chocolate help lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart. So, sipping this hot chocolate isn’t just a treat—it’s heart-healthy too! -
Great for Skin
Research suggests that antioxidants in dark chocolate can protect your skin from UV rays. So, while you sip, your skin gets a glow-up!
This vegan hot chocolate is perfect for any moment. Whether you’re relaxing in the afternoon, reading a book, or snacking with friends, it’s a great choice. On chilly days, top it with vegan marshmallows for the ultimate cozy vibe.
What healthy versions of junk food or fast food hacks should I make next? Drop your ideas in the comments, and who knows, your suggestion might become my next content!
So, are you ready to enjoy coffee shop-style hot chocolate at home?
Course Drinks
Cuisine Indonesian
Keyword drink, plant-based, lactose free, dairy free, milk, hot chocolate
Prep 30 minutes
Cook 30 minutes
Servings 4 servings
Ingredients
- 7 organic dates
- 250 mL unsweetened almond milk, for soaking the dates
- 90 gr raw cacao powder
- 250 gr dairy-free 70% dark chocolate couverture, chopped
- 500 mL unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla paste
Instructions
- Remove the pits from the dates.
- Soak the dates in 250 mL milk for 30–120 minutes.
- In a blender, combine raw cacao powder with water. Add the soaked dates and milk, then blend until smooth to create a chocolate paste.
- In a saucepan, heat 500 mL milk.
- Add the chocolate paste and stir until well combined.
- Stir in the vanilla paste.
- Add the chopped chocolate and stir until melted. Turn off the heat.
- Your Starbucks Hack: Hot Chocolate is ready to enjoy!