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Flavorful Mexican Hot Chocolate Recipe with Spicy Cinnamon and Chili

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A rich and creamy Mexican hot chocolate infused with warming cinnamon and a gentle chili kick, perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday mornings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk (or almond/oat milk for dairy-free)
  • 3 tablespoons (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 Mexican chocolate disk (about 40 g) or finely chopped dark chocolate with cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) chili powder
  • 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
  • A pinch of sea salt
  • Optional: whipped cream or marshmallows for topping

Instructions

  1. Pour 2 cups (480 ml) of whole milk into a medium saucepan and heat over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes until warm but not boiling, with steam rising and small bubbles around edges.
  2. Whisk in 3 tablespoons (15 g) unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon (2 g) ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) chili powder until smooth and lump-free, about 2 minutes.
  3. Stir in 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Adjust sugar or chili powder to taste. Stir gently for about 2 minutes over low heat.
  4. Break the Mexican chocolate disk into small pieces and add to the saucepan. Stir continuously until completely melted and incorporated, about 3-4 minutes. If grainy, stir off heat for 1 minute to smooth out.
  5. Increase heat slightly and bring mixture to a gentle simmer with bubbles around edges but do not boil, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat immediately to avoid bitterness.
  6. Pour hot chocolate into heatproof mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows and a light dusting of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

Use a whisk to avoid clumps and incorporate air for a frothy top. Keep heat moderate to prevent scorching and bitterness. Adjust chili powder to control spiciness. Warm mugs before serving to keep drink hot longer. For dairy-free, swap milk and use dairy-free chocolate. Add toppings like whipped cream or marshmallows for extra indulgence.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican hot chocolate, spicy hot chocolate, cinnamon hot chocolate, chili hot chocolate, cozy drink, holiday beverage, homemade hot chocolate