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Flavorful Oaxacan Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon and Chili Pepper

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A rich and creamy hot chocolate infused with cinnamon and a subtle chili pepper kick, perfect for cozy winter evenings and inspired by traditional Oaxacan flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups whole milk (480 ml) – or almond/oat milk for dairy-free option
  • 3 tablespoons good-quality cocoa powder (Valrhona or Ghirardelli recommended)
  • 1 oz Mexican chocolate tablet, chopped (or dark chocolate as substitute)
  • 1 large cinnamon stick
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne chili powder (adjust to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust sweetness as preferred)
  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Pour 2 cups (480 ml) of whole milk into a small saucepan. Add the cinnamon stick and a pinch of salt. Warm over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until hot but not boiling.
  2. Whisk in 3 tablespoons (15 g) of cocoa powder and 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar. Continue whisking until fully dissolved and smooth, about 2 minutes.
  3. Add the chopped 1 oz (28 g) Mexican chocolate tablet. Stir continuously until it melts completely, about 3-4 minutes.
  4. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon cayenne chili powder, adjusting based on desired heat level. Stir well to combine.
  5. Remove the cinnamon stick and whisk in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
  6. Pour hot chocolate into mugs and serve immediately. Optionally, garnish with a light dusting of cinnamon powder or a small cinnamon stick.

Notes

Warm the milk gently to avoid scorching and preserve cinnamon flavor. Whisk well to prevent lumps. Adjust cayenne chili powder to control heat. Remove cinnamon stick before serving to avoid bitterness. For dairy-free, use almond, oat, or coconut milk and dairy-free chocolate. If too thick, add more milk; if too thin, add more cocoa or chocolate.

Nutrition

Keywords: Oaxacan hot chocolate, cinnamon hot chocolate, chili pepper hot chocolate, winter drink, spicy hot chocolate, Mexican chocolate, cozy beverage

Find it online: https://lemonydrinks.com/flavorful-oaxacan-hot-chocolate-recipe-with-cinnamon-and-chili-pepper-easy-and-perfect-for-winter/