There’s something deeply comforting about holding a warm mug in your hands on a chilly day. In the colder months, we love leaning into simple rituals that feel grounding and nourishing, and this plant-based hot cacao is one of our favorites. It’s rich, chocolatey, naturally sweetened, and made with ingredients that actually support your body rather than spike your blood sugar.

This isn’t your typical hot cocoa mix. We’re using real cacao, warming spices, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey to create a drink that feels indulgent but also intentional.

Why Choose Cacao Instead of Cocoa?

Cacao is the pure, minimally processed form of chocolate, which means it retains far more nutrients than conventional cocoa powder.

Health benefits of cacao include:

• Rich in antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress

• Naturally high in magnesium, a mineral that supports relaxation, muscle function, and sleep

• Supports mood by encouraging the production of serotonin and dopamine

• Contains flavonoids that support heart health and circulation

Think of cacao as chocolate with benefits. It nourishes your nervous system while still satisfying that cozy winter craving.

The Importance of Warming Drinks in Winter

From a holistic wellness perspective, winter is a season of slowing down, conserving energy, and keeping the body warm from the inside out. Cold foods and drinks can be harder on digestion during this time of year, while warm beverages help support circulation and digestive fire.

Benefits of drinking warming beverages in winter:

• Supports digestion and nutrient absorption

• Encourages relaxation and a calmer nervous system

• Helps the body maintain internal warmth

• Feels grounding and comforting during shorter, darker days

This hot cacao fits beautifully into a winter routine, whether as an afternoon pick-me-up or a calming evening ritual.

Plant-Based Warming Hot Cacao Recipe

Serves 1–2

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk, coconut milk, or oat milk

• 1 tablespoon raw cacao powder

• 1 to 2 teaspoons maple syrup or raw honey, to taste

• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon

• Pinch of sea salt

• Optional additions

  • ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract

  • Collagen or a plant-based protein for added nourishment

   

Instructions

1. Add the milk to a small saucepan and warm gently over medium-low heat. Avoid boiling.

2. Whisk in the cacao powder, cinnamon, and sea salt until smooth.

3. Sweeten with maple syrup or honey, adjusting to taste.

4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla or any optional add-ins.

5. Pour into your favorite mug, take a deep breath, and enjoy slowly.

Make It a Ritual

I love treating this hot cacao as more than just a drink. Light a candle, sit somewhere cozy, and give yourself a few quiet minutes to unwind. These small moments of warmth and presence can make a big difference in how we feel throughout the winter season.

If you’re looking for a nourishing way to replace sugary hot chocolate or afternoon coffee, this plant-based hot cacao is a beautiful place to start. Warm, grounding, and deeply satisfying, it’s winter wellness in a mug.