Nothing says Christmas more than being inside getting warm and cozy with a steaming cup of sweet and indulgent hot cocoa, and this Hemp Hot Chocolate is a healthier take on the delicious classic!
The benefits of hemp seeds are endless. High in protein, fiber, and fatty acids, including omega 3s and omega 6s, they have a wealth of antioxidant benefits, therefore could reduce symptoms of numerous ailments improving heart, skin, and joint health. Hemp seeds come from the Cannabis Sativa plant, although they don’t produce any mind-altering effects.
Amino acids are the building blocks for all proteins, and hemp seeds contain all nine essential amino acids. They’re an ideal addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet to improve protein intake. They’re particularly high in an amino acid called arginine that supports heart health.
Most of us don’t have enough omega-3s in our diet. Because the body doesn’t naturally produce it, we rely on it through our diet, and it’s crucial to long-term health including reducing inflammation; key to keeping us healthy and thriving.
Fiber is amazing for the digestive system and gut health, and as we know, a healthy gut means a healthy immune system. Consuming enough fiber each day, from high-fiber foods like hemp, can help to reduce appetite, support weight management, and stabilize blood sugar levels (and therefore sustain mood and energy).
Hemp seeds also contain an array of important vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. They’re rich in vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as being a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins including vitamin b6 and folate. The antioxidant effects of hemp seeds mean that consumption could go some way to protect against neurological conditions too.
The great thing about this recipe is you can mix and match it to suit you. If hemp’s not your jam, swap it out for coconut, almond, or oat milk to make it creamy, and use whatever cocoa or cacao powder you prefer to make it sweet (or bitter – depending on your preference).
Depending on what ingredients you use, you may want to sweeten it up, especially if you go for a bitter dark chocolate cacao powder. To keep it as healthy as possible, opt for an unrefined sweetener like coconut sugar, Medjool dates, or high-quality agave nectar. The hemp hot cocoa is flavored with vanilla bean extract and rich cinnamon for an extra festive feel.
When it comes to festive drink ideas, this creamy Hemp Hot Chocolate is the perfect accompaniment for a cozy movie night in – the healthy hot cocoa you needn’t feel guilty about!
Ingredients
2 cups filtered water
3 tablespoon hemp seeds
1 teaspoon vanilla bean extract
2 tablespoon cocoa powder
¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
2-3 teaspoon coconut sugar, extra depending on how sweet you want your hot chocolate*
Optional: marshmallows
How to make it
- In a high-speed blender, add water and hemp seeds, blend on high until well combined and water turns white/pale, approx. 20-30 seconds.
- To the blender, add vanilla, cocoa powder, and cinnamon. Blend on high until well combined.
- Pour chocolate mixture into a small/medium pot and put over medium heat.
- Add the desired amount of coconut sugar. I add 2 teaspoons. Whisk well until dissolved.
- Continue to heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it begins to steam, don’t let it boil. NOTE: or heat to your desired drinking temperature.
- Remove from heat and pour into mugs. Add marshmallows here to top if you’d like!
- Serve and enjoy!
