HOT CHOCOLATE

If you want to make the best hot chocolate possible, then it is important to use the best ingredients! That is of course, Miles’s heavenly hot chocolate. The best way to make our hot chocolate is to mix it with milk. So, once you’ve chosen your milk (dairy free if needed), gently warm the milk until its hot but not boiling. And in your desired amount of chocolate powder, whilst whisking/stirring until smooth. A little tip, if you wish to go that little bit extra, is to add a touch of vanilla to enhance the flavour or a pinch of cinnamon for a little extra warmth. Obviously, no hot chocolate is complete without whipped cream & marshmallows either!

Hot chocolate can be part of a balanced and healthy diet if consumed in moderation. Cocoa, the main ingredient in hot chocolate, can have a number of different health benefits due to the antioxidants in the cocoa. These antioxidants are called flavonoids which have anti-inflammatory properties as well as having the potential to improve heart health and brain function. Whilst we know that chocolate generally is better consumed in moderation, it is possible to opt for dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage and the lower the amount of  added sugars the better. Using plant-based milk or even low fat dairy milk can also help when considering your health. Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can help improve the flavour without adding many calories to the drink. The main thing to remember is that whilst hot chocolate can be a great part of a healthy and balanced diet, moderation is key, as, like anything, too much of a good thing can sometimes have a negative overall effect.

Hot chocolate can be suitable for vegetarians (ours is!) and can be suitable for vegans. The usual hot chocolate is made mostly of cocoa, milk powder and sugar. Now, milk is obviously an animal product, however dairy-free milks are readily available these days and can be substituted in. Some of these milks than can be used instead are almond, soy and oat. All of these plant-based milks will offer the same creamy, smooth texture whilst being suitable for vegan. Now, some hot chocolates will contain further ingredients that are animal products which would result in the product not being suitable for vegans and so it's best to check the packet to know for sure. Alternatively, you could try your hand at making the whole thing at home, giving you full control of the ingredients used meaning you can create your perfect drink to your individual needs!