Superfood Hot Chocolate

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What are some of your favorite things to do when it's snowing outside and you're stuck at home?  A few of my favorites include cuddling with my husband (or our dog), reading a book in a cozy chair, watching a movie, and drinking some creamy hot chocolate.  With the snowstorm we got in Maryland this past weekend, hot chocolate was a definite necessity to keep warm!  Rather than making a traditional hot chocolate, I decided to make a Superfood (& Super Delicious) version of this favorite hot drink.  The result was a super creamy, super healthy, and super chocolately drink!


One cup of this will allow you to reap the benefits of the superfoods explained below (for additional information, click on the links for each food):
  • Coconut Oil: Nutritious source of saturated fats with antioxidant properties
  • Maca powder: Rich in vitamins B, C, and E.  May also improve sexual function in men AND women, relieve menstrual issues, and increase energy!
  • Cinnamon: Antioxidant-rich and may reduce risk factors associated with heart disease and diabetes
  • Pumpkin: Rich in fiber and vitamin A (for healthy eyes!)
  • Cocoa: Rich in polyphenols that may help increase cardiovascular health.  Also rich in agents that boost the feel-good chemicals in your brain and is considered an aphrodisiac!
  • Dates: Easily digestible food that is rich in several vitamins, minerals, and fiber.  Healthier alternative to sugar!

Superfood Hot Chocolate
Yield: 1 very full mug

Ingredients
  • 1.5 cups almond milk (or other non-dairy milk alternative - I used my homemade almond milk!)
  • 1/4 cup pumpkin puree (sweet potato puree is also a good alternative)
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil
  • 1 Tablespoon + 1 teaspoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 dates, pits removed
  • 3/4 teaspoon cinnamon
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • 1 teaspoon maca powder (optional)
Directions
  1. Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.  *Note: If you have a Blendtec or similar high quality blender, your drink should get very smooth.  If you do not (like me), then you may have some small pieces of date that don't get entirely broken down.  You can either strain your drink to remove any of these pieces, or just enjoy them in your drink like I did!
  2. Pour the drink into a microwavable mug and microwave for 1.5 to 2 minutes, or until hot (but not boiling).
-Brought to you from Erin's Kitchen

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