Dessert

Spiced Hot Cocoa Recipe

ByRita Bennet October 28, 2025October 28, 2025

Introduction

Enjoy a comforting twist on classic hot cocoa with this spiced hot cocoa recipe. Infused with warming spices like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon, it’s a flavorful treat perfect for chilly days or cozy evenings.

A close-up of a light brown creamy coffee drink with fine bubbles on top, inside a beige ceramic mug that has a raised dragonfly design on the front and a wide handle on the left. The mug is placed on a white marbled surface. Behind the mug, there is a clear glass jar filled with brown coffee powder, with a metal clasp lid open and a silver spoon inside. The sunlight casts soft shadows and highlights on both the mug and jar, giving a warm and cozy feeling. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2/3 cup powdered cacao
3 tablespoons turmeric

6 teaspoons ground ginger
6 teaspoons ground cinnamon

3 teaspoons ground black pepper
3 teaspoons ground black cumin

Dash of cayenne pepper (optional, to taste)
1 tablespoon hot cocoa powder per serving
Mug of warm, fatty milk

Sweetener of choice: honey, raw sugar, etc. (optional, to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: In a bowl, thoroughly mix all the dry spice ingredients with the powdered cacao to create the spiced powder mix. Store this blend in a sealed container for future use.
Step 2: To prepare a cup, warm the milk to your preferred temperature in a small pot, carafe, or larger mug.

Step 3: Add one tablespoon of the spiced powder mix to the warm milk.
Step 4: Add sweetener if desired, adjusting the amount to your taste.
Step 5: Whisk the mixture thoroughly until smooth. Using a whisk, automatic frother, or barista carafe helps achieve a creamy texture and light foam.

Step 6: Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy warm.

Tips & Variations

Use whole milk or any milk with higher fat content for a richer and creamier hot cocoa.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or star anise to the spice mix for extra flavor complexity.

Adjust the cayenne pepper amount depending on how much heat you want in your drink.
For a vegan version, substitute the milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.

Storage

Store the dry spiced powder mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months. Once mixed with milk, enjoy immediately or reheat gently on the stove or microwave, whisking again before serving to restore the smooth texture.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a creamy coffee drink in a light green ceramic mug with a raised dragonfly design on the front, filled to the top with a frothy, light brown liquid layer with small bubbles. Next to the mug is a transparent glass container with a metal latch lid, slightly open, filled with brown cocoa powder and a silver spoon inside. Both items rest on a white marbled surface that has subtle veins and a smooth texture. Soft natural light highlights the textures and details. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of powdered cacao?

Yes, regular cocoa powder works well if you don’t have powdered cacao, though the flavor might be slightly different. Adjust the quantity to taste since some cocoa powders are stronger or sweeter.

What type of milk is best for this hot cocoa?

Full-fat milk yields the creamiest and richest flavor, but you can use any milk you prefer, including plant-based options. Just choose a milk with enough fat content to complement the spices and cocoa.