When it’s cold out there’s not much better than a mug of steaming hot cocoa. 

But the boxed stuff is often full of a bunch of weird preservatives I can’t pronounce and a big cup of milk doesn’t usually leave my tummy feeling very good.

This version is dairy-free, lower in sugar, and without any hard to pronounce ingredients, but I promise it’s just as delicious. Even better in my humble opinion. 

And because I love any opportunity to sneak in more of the good stuff, this one is packed full of antioxidants from raw cacao and adaptogenic herbs and mushrooms that to reduce stress. Reishi mushroom, also known as  the “mushroom of immortality,” gives your adrenal system a little extra support, is a potent immune booster and is one of my all-time favorite supplements for stressed out women. AND it pairs wonderfully with chocolate, so there’s that. 

Research has linked the antioxidants in cacao to everything from improved brain function and longevity to supporting a healthy cardiovascular system. In it’s raw state, chocolate has more than 300 chemical compounds making it one of the richest sources of antioxidants of any food on earth.

Cacao also contains a compound that triggers the release of endorphins and mood-boosting neurochemicals in the brain. Yes please. 

Cinnamon is a potent antioxidant that satisfies your sweet tooth, boosts immunity and is delicious in just about anything. Fresh or dried chilies contain capsaicin which is thought to boost metabolism, reduce pain and keep blood vessels healthy and it adds the perfect touch of heat.

It’s packed with antioxidants, the perfect amount of sweet, just a little bit spicy and the perfect thing to enjoy on a chilly afternoon.

You can find this recipe and so many more simple, hormone healthy recipes in my cookbook Nourish + Thrive.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 cups unsweetened almond milk (OR unsweetened soy milk, oat milk, any other unsweetened nut milk or unsweetened coconut milk)

• 2 T organic unsweetened cocoa powder (OR raw cacao powder)

• 1 tsp reishi mushroom powder (i love this chill mix from Four Sigmatic)

• ¼ tsp cinnamon  

• Pinch of cayenne pepper

• 1 tablespoon raw honey or maple syrup (plus more to taste if needed)

• ¼ teaspoon pure vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS

Warm the almond milk on the stove over medium heat until hot but not boiling. Simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Take off of the heat and add the rest of the ingredients and whisk to combine.

Serve immediately.