Make Delicious Hot Chocolate Using Dates In 5 Easy Steps

Winter is in full swing and you can’t get your hand off from a mug of steaming hot chocolate and we totally get it! However, overconsumption of sugar-sweetened hot chocolate can prove dangerous for your health. So, here’s a healthy alternative—dates-sweetened hot chocolate. Not to worry, it is as sweet as sugar and completely natural, which doesn’t lead to addiction or weight gain. Scroll down to learn how you can make a mug of creamy and delicious hot chocolate using dates.

Ingredients For Dates-Sweetened Hot Chocolate

For Date Paste:

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• 6 pitted Medjool dates
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup milk (with an optional 1-2 tablespoons extra for blending as needed)

For Hot Chocolate:

• 2 cups milk
• ½ cup water
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (Optional sweetener)

Customise with your favorite toppings like vegan marshmallows, vegan whipped cream, sprinkles, candy canes, cacao nibs, and chocolate chips.

Dates-Sweetened Hot Chocolate Recipe

1. Combine all date paste ingredients in a high-powered blender. Blend until extremely smooth, pausing to scrape down the edges as needed. If the mixture is too thick, add a small amount of milk (1 tablespoon at a time) to achieve the desired consistency.
2. To prepare the hot chocolate, combine milk, water, and cocoa powder in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk constantly as the mixture warms, initially incorporating the cocoa powder, which will initially float on top. Continue heating and whisking until the hot chocolate reaches your desired temperature, being careful not to let it boil.
3. Whisk the date paste into the hot chocolate mixture until smooth.
4. Enhance the sweetness to your taste by adding the optional maple syrup, then remove the pot from the heat
5. Pour steaming hot chocolate into a mug, top as desired, and enjoy!

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Credits: Freepik