My #HealthyBirdy Hot Chocolate Recipe

Fall is here and winter is coming! Colder temperatures have arrived and I’m constantly trying to warm up with a cup of hot chocolate. While the sugary, pre-packaged mixes taste amazing (especially topped with marshmallows or whipped cream) they’re definitely something I try to have as a treat every now and then. When I’m on a bit of a hot chocolate bender and drinking a cup every day, I opt for this healthier version so I don’t feel so guilty.

Ingredients:

1 Cup Hot Water
1/2 Cup Coconut Milk
1 Tablespoon Honey (or to taste)
1 Teaspoon Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
1/8 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
A Pinch of Salt
1 Teaspoon Maca Powder1 Teaspoon Coconut Oil

Depending on the day – if I’m feeling a bit wild – I’ll even add a pinch of cayenne.

Coconut oil is really good for gut heath; cinnamon helps boost metabolism; maca powder can help increase energy levels; and I like to think a tablespoon of natural honey a day helps keep the doctor away. This recipe has a few more ingredients and takes a bit more time to prepare, but it’s worth it – especially for hot chocoholics. It satisfies sweet tooth cravings and feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.

The marshmallows were purely to make this drink more Insta-worthy. Be aware…they may not contain a ton of calories and are fat-free, but they’re still full of sugar. Since the drink is so healthy, a marshmallow or two could be justifiable, but I personally leave them out. Besides, this hot chocolate is tasty and sweet enough on its own.