As the cooler days begin to settle in, there’s something deeply comforting about wrapping your hands around a warm mug and letting the rich, grounding aroma of cacao drift upward. This Spiced Ceremonial Cacao Hot Chocolate is more than just a cosy drink - it’s a little ritual of nourishment. 

Ceremonial cacao is known for its mood-lifting properties, thanks to naturally occurring theobromine and magnesium that help calm the nervous system and support a gentle boost in energy. The warming spices - like cinnamon and cardamom - not only enhance digestion and circulation, they also bring a gentle hum of flavour that elevates this hot chocolate beyond the everyday.

So here’s your invitation to pause. To create a moment that’s just for you. Wrap yourself in a blanket, settle into a quiet corner, and let each sip bring you back to centre. Best enjoyed in your favourite mug, with both hands around it and nowhere else to be.

Serves 1 – sip slowly in your hug mug

1 cup milk of choice (almond, oat, coconut, or dairy all work well)
20g ceremonial cacao (roughly 2 tbsp shaved or chopped)
½ tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground cardamom
Pinch of ground cayenne pepper (optional, for those who like the heat!)
Pinch of nutmeg
¼ tsp vanilla extract or paste
1 tsp maple syrup or raw honey (or to taste)
1 tsp maca powder (optional)
Pinch of sea salt

In a small saucepan, gently heat your milk over low-medium heat until warm but not boiling. Add the ceremonial cacao and whisk until melted and smooth.

Add all remaining ingredients and continue whisking until well combined and gently steaming. You may also like to throw all of the ingredients into a (heat tolerant) blender - this usually makes for a creamier result). 

Taste and adjust sweetness or spice as desired.

Pour into your favourite hug mug, get cosy, and enjoy the grounding magic of this spiced cacao moment.