There’s something deeply comforting about wrapping your hands around a warm mug of hot chocolate especially when it’s more than just a sweet treat.
This Spiced Hot Chocolate made with ceremonial cacao is rich, grounding, gently energising, and filled with warming spices that support both body and mind.
Unlike conventional hot chocolate made with processed cocoa and refined sugars, this recipe uses pure ceremonial-grade cacao, which is naturally rich in magnesium, antioxidants, iron, and mood-boosting compounds.
Combined with fragrant spices and creamy almond milk, this drink becomes a nourishing ritual you can enjoy as a morning energy lift, a pre-workout boost, or a soothing afternoon pause.
Whether you’re a busy mum, working from home, or simply craving a cosy moment of calm, this spiced cacao drink is designed to support you, without the jitters of coffee.
Why Choose Ceremonial Cacao Instead of Regular Cocoa?
Ceremonial cacao is made from minimally processed, whole cacao beans, meaning it retains its natural fats and powerful nutrients. This is what gives it its deep, complex flavour and gentle, sustained energy.
Benefits of ceremonial cacao include:
- Natural mood support thanks to compounds like theobromine
- Sustained energy without caffeine crashes
- Rich in magnesium to support stress, sleep and muscle recovery
- Heart-opening and grounding qualities used traditionally in rituals
- A smoother, more nourishing alternative to coffee
This recipe features Creation Cacao, a high-quality ceremonial cacao that melts beautifully and tastes incredible — making it perfect for both daily rituals and special moments of self-care.
👇You can get the same single-ingredient ceremonial cacao used in this recipe here:
Shop Creation Cacao – Ceremonial Grade Cacao
Spiced Hot Chocolate with Ceremonial Cacao
This recipe balances sweet spices, a touch of heat, and creamy almond milk to create a deeply satisfying drink that feels indulgent while still being nourishing.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 40–50g Ceremonial Cacao
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
- A pinch of nutmeg
- A pinch of allspice A pinch of ground clove
- A knife-point of cayenne pepper (optional but recommended)
- A pinch of salt 2 cups almond milk (homemade if possible)
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup (raw honey works beautifully too)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Spiced Hot Cacao
1. Prepare the dry ingredients
In a small bowl, combine the ceremonial cacao, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, allspice, clove, cayenne, and salt.
Mixing these first ensures the spices distribute evenly throughout the drink.
2. Heat the wet ingredients gently
In a small saucepan, warm the almond milk over medium heat. Add the maple syrup (or honey) and vanilla extract. Heat gently and avoid boiling — cacao is best prepared slowly to preserve its nutrients and flavour.
3. Blend everything together
Gradually whisk the dry cacao and spice mixture into the warm almond milk. Whisk continuously until the cacao fully melts and the drink becomes smooth and glossy.
4. Let the flavours infuse
Continue stirring gently for about five minutes. This allows the spices to bloom and the cacao to fully integrate, creating a rich, layered flavour.
5. Serve and enjoy
Remove from heat and pour into two mugs — or one generously sized mug if you’re claiming this moment for yourself.
Optional: sprinkle shaved cacao or cinnamon on top.
When to Enjoy This Spiced Cacao Drink
One of the beautiful things about ceremonial cacao is its versatility. This spiced hot chocolate works perfectly at different times of day:
- Morning ritual – A grounding alternative to coffee
- Pre-workout boost – Supports energy and focus without overstimulation
- Post-workout recovery – Rich in magnesium and nutrients
- Afternoon slump saver – Cozy, comforting, and revitalising
- Evening wind-down – Especially when enjoyed mindfully
As a mum, it’s a simple way to create a pause and a moment that’s just for you.
Tips to Make It Your Own
- Prefer it sweeter? Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup.
- Want it extra creamy? Use cashew milk or add a splash of coconut milk.
- Love spice? Increase the cayenne slightly for a warming kick.
- Short on time? Use a milk frother or blender for a quick mix.
Why Creation Cacao Is My Go-To
Not all cacao is created equal. Creation Cacao offers ceremonial-grade cacao that is ethically sourced, affordable, and designed for daily use — not just special occasions. It melts smoothly, tastes rich without bitterness, and delivers the grounding energy ceremonial cacao is known for.
If you’re new to cacao or ready to upgrade your hot chocolate ritual, this is a beautiful place to start.
👉 Shop Creation Cacao here and recreate this nourishing spiced hot chocolate at home.
Final Thoughts
This spiced hot chocolate isn’t just a recipe, it’s an invitation to slow down, nourish yourself, and reconnect with simple pleasures.
In the middle of busy days, school runs, work deadlines, and endless to-do lists, even five minutes with a warm mug of ceremonial cacao can feel like a reset.
If you try this recipe, make it your ritual. Sip slowly. Breathe deeply. And let cacao do what it has done for centuries — gently support, energise, and comfort.
