Around the world, hot chocolate is the go-to way to warm up on a chilly evening. This Indian-inspired spiced hot chocolate version is one of those kitchen wins that you can whip out when needed to get cozy, or even to impress guests! It’s the kind of drink that rewards heart, not precise ingredient measurement.
Inspired by the spices commonly used in Indian chai, these spices elevate the drink and makes it feel more intentional. Rather than strictly milk, chocolate, and sugar, this recipe builds upon spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger! To make this drink right for your family, tweaking the spice ingredients may be necessary. Luckily, this recipe includes notes on how to adjust the spices to meet your needs!
This is a great starting point if you’re curious about Indian spices! It definitely opens the door to other Indian recipes you may like to explore!
Things to love about this recipe
- Built on a foundation of familiar flavors
- Flexible spices can be changed to suit any taste buds
- Creating your own flavor profile is a culinary rite of passage
- Easy, foolproof instructions
Ingredient notes
- Milk – can be adapted to fit dietary needs. Coconut milk, plant-based milk, and lactose-free milk are all good options.
- Maple syrup – can be reduced, increased, or switched out for another sweetener!
- Cardamom – adds a spicy, floral flavor
- Turmeric – added for color and nutrients; can be skipped
- Pepper – added to balance other flavors; can be skipped
- Use our handy guide below to determine your spice level!
I like it spicy!
- 1/2 tsp cardamom
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp ginger
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Comfortable with spices
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/8 tsp ginger
- 1/8 tsp pepper
New to Indian spice
- 1/8 tsp cardamom
- 1/8 tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp turmeric
- Pinch ginger
- Pinch pepper
Why add spices?
You may be wondering, if the process of spicing hot chocolate can be tricky, and plain hot chocolate is so tasty, why add spices at all? And that is a great question! From a nutrition standpoint, spices have antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory properties, and aid in digestion. Cooking with them (or drinking them) is part of a healthy diet! From a cultural standpoint, spices are a big part of Ayurvedic medicine. In Ayurvedic traditions, spices play a central role in how food supports balance and digestion. Regardless of why you personally choose to add spices to your hot chocolate, we are here to help!
Spiced Hot Chocolate
Equipment
- 1 Soup pot small
- 1 whisk
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup milk
- 4 tbsp maple syrup
- 2 tsp cocoa powder
- 1/2 tsp cardamom
- 1/4 tsp ginger
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp turmeric
- 1/4 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions
- Place milk and sweetener in a small pot over medium heat. Whisk continuously until the milk is just about to boil. Do not let the milk boil, as it could lead to scorching or the creation of a film over top.1 ½ cup milk, 4 tbsp maple syrup
- Add in the spices, and whisk continuously until the spices are fully incorporated. Because there is no emulsifying agent, the spices will settle to the bottom if not stirred in a few minutes. This is normal, just give it a stir and continue enjoying!2 tsp cocoa powder, 1/2 tsp cardamom, 1/4 tsp ginger, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, 1/4 tsp turmeric, 1/4 tsp pepper, 1 tsp vanilla
Serving suggestions
This drink is the perfect way to wind down on a chilly evening. Hot chocolate pairs well with a nice spiced cookie like a Biscoff, or a shortbread cookie. For maximum coziness, use it to follow up after our Minestrone alla Milanese or Easy French Onion Soup!
What to cook next
If you enjoyed making this cultural beverage, you may enjoy our Red Wine Sangria recipe. If you’re in the market for other Indian recipes, give our Pumpkin Dal a try, and pair it with our Roti with Coconut Ghee!
In conclusion…
By making some Spiced Hot Chocolate, you’ll have gained an important culinary skill! You’ll have learned to manage spice content to match your own tastes. It’s really amazing how minor changes like 1/4 tsp of cardamom can make all the difference in not just how a drink tastes, but also how the experience feels!
