The wind is really howling here today, and a big mug of hot cocoa sounds really, really good! We aren’t getting any snow, but there are places not that far away under winter storm warnings. Goodness, it’s the end of March! I love the excitement of living in the Midwest! Must be time for a cup of Four Minute Hot Cocoa. 🙂
I’ve been working on this recipe since my mom mentioned she wanted to get my hot chocolate recipe about a week ago. (Um, not sure what recipe she thought I had…) Mom read that drinking hot chocolate is supposed to be good for us. (I have no idea where she read it, but I’m good with thinking that this homey beverage is healthy!) 🙂 Yay for chocolate!!!
For the record, hot cocoa and hot chocolate are not the same thing. I tend to use the terms interchangeably, but that is incorrect. Hot chocolate is made from unsweetened solid chocolate whereas hot cocoa is made from cocoa powder. I promise I won’t correct your verbiage if you excuse mine.
This recipe has some interesting ingredients, but I like the combination of the earthy cinnamon with the spicy cayenne. Adding both to chocolate really adds a nice warmth. I’ve made this with both white sugar and brown sugar and even maple syrup. I like the brown sugar a little better because it has a few more nutrients. Use whatever you have handy. Just pick out your favorite book and whip up a cup. It only takes four minutes! Get ready, get set, GO!
Four Minute Hot Cocoa Recipe…
The ingredients for Four Minute Hot Cocoa are probably already in your pantry. You’ll need:
1 ½ c. milk
2 T. dutch processed cocoa powder
1 T. brown sugar/maple syrup/honey
¼ t. cinnamon
Dash cayenne
â…› t. vanilla extract
All that’s left is to combine and heat in the microwave, stirring at one minute intervals. See…super easy!
Four Minute Hot Cocoa–Really!
Notes
Any type of sugar can be substituted for the brown sugar. Just use an equal amount (or to taste).
Ingredients
- 1 ½ c. milk
- 2 T. dutch processed cocoa powder
- 1 T. brown sugar (white sugar, honey, or maple syrup will work, too)
- ¼ t. cinnamon
- Dash cayenne
- â…› t. vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a two cup glass liquid measuring cup, combine all ingredients.
- Cook on high in microwave for one minute; stir.
- Cook on high in microwave for one more minute; stir.
- Heat in microwave on high for another 30-Â45 seconds; stir.
- Serve in favorite mug. Top with whipped cream and extra cinnamon, if desired.
I hope you enjoy this warm treat as much as I do! It makes a great evening snack/dessert. For me, there’s nothing like snuggling under my fuzzy blanket, drinking this hot drink, and watching videos with my family. I think I’ll plan on this tonight! Have a great evening with those who are special in your life.
