Now I have to admit that I am a bit of a hot chocolate snob.
Sometimes they are sickly sweet, sometimes not sweet enough. Too milky, or too bitter. Watery and tasteless or like drinking pure chocolate.
The dream is to get the perfect balance of cocoa flavour, sweetness and creamy texture.
This, I truly believe, hits the spot.
The secret to the perfect texture? Nut butter
There is something about adding the nut butter and pulsing it in a blender that brings an intense creaminess which radically changes the texture when heated. Honestly - this was a revelation to me and my friends who have taste tested many for me.
If you don’t want a nutty flavour I suggest using almond butter, otherwise peanut is wonderful too.
Ultimate Hot Chocolate
Serves 1
Ingredients
Note: Do add more of less of each ingredient if you want it more sweet/less sweet etc. This is yours to make your own!
2 tsp peanut butter
250 ml milk
1 tbsp sugar or honey
2 tsp cocoa powder
Pinch of salt (trust me on this!)
Marshmallows (optional)
(notes, variations and substitutions found below the method)
Method
Place all the ingredients in a blender and pulse for 30 seconds
Transfer to a mug and place in the microwave for 1 to 1.5 minutes, until hot.
Top with marshmallows if you fancy. Sit back and enjoy the silky smooth chocolate elixir.
Notes, variations and substitutions:
Milk: Any milk alternative will also work
Nut butter: Almond butter or even tahini works well
Cocoa powder: Can replace with cacao powder
Variations
Orange: Add the zest of 1/2 an orange
Cinnamon: Add 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Mexican hot choc: Add 1/2 tsp chilli powder or paprika
Comments