Description
A luxurious and intensely flavored hot chocolate combining rich dark chocolate with the bright, zesty notes of fresh orange for the ultimate cozy beverage.
Ingredients
1/4 cup dark chocolate, approx. 2 oz., chopped
1 cup almond milk, or milk of choice
1 tbsp cocoa powder
1 tbsp cane sugar
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
2-3 orange peel rinds
Instructions
Step 1: In a small saucepan, combine the almond milk (or milk of choice), cocoa powder, and cane sugar. Whisk gently over medium-low heat until the sugar and cocoa powder are fully dissolved and the milk is warm, but not boiling.
Step 2: Add the chopped dark chocolate to the saucepan. Continue to whisk constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth and glossy.
Step 3: Stir in the vanilla extract and freshly squeezed orange juice. Add the orange peel rinds to the mixture, ensuring they are submerged.
Step 4: Continue to gently heat for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the orange peel to infuse its aroma and flavor into the hot chocolate. Be careful not to let it boil.
Step 5: Carefully remove the orange peel rinds from the hot chocolate. Pour the hot chocolate into your favorite mug.
Step 6: Serve immediately, garnished as desired with whipped cream, extra orange zest, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
Notes
For an extra luxurious touch, add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of finely grated orange zest or a piece of candied orange peel before serving. Adjust sugar to taste.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 100mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
