Ah, hot chocolate—a hug in a mug, especially when the air turns crisp and leaves swirl like confetti. I remember one chilly evening last winter, cozying up with a cup while binging the latest season of The Witcher. The rich, velvety texture of this keto-friendly version made me forget all about carbs, transporting me to a world where comfort reins supreme.
Steps
- In a small saucepan, combine cocoa powder, sweetener, milk, and vanilla extract. Heat over medium until it reaches a boil, then remove from heat.
- Stir in chocolate chips and let them sit for a few minutes before mixing everything together until smooth. Adjust the sweetness if needed.
- Pour the hot chocolate into two mugs, then top with marshmallows and whipped cream before serving.
Ingredients
- Dutch-processed, unsweetened cocoa powder (or dark cocoa powder for a more bittersweet taste)
- Brown sugar substitute (or granulated allulose/powdered sugar substitute)
- Unsweetened almond milk (or any regular/dairy-free milk)
- Vanilla extract
- Sugar-free chocolate bar or chocolate chips
- Keto marshmallows (optional)
- Keto whipped cream (optional)
Nutritional Values
Calories: 156kcal | Carbohydrates: 8g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 16g | Sodium: 654mg | Potassium: 230mg | Fiber: 6g | Calcium: 620mg | Iron: 2mg | NET CARBS: 2g
FAQ
- Is cocoa powder allowed on a keto diet?
- Yes, unsweetened cocoa powder and cacao powder are suitable for a keto diet as long as they do not contain added sugars. A serving size of two tablespoons typically has only about 2 grams of net carbs.
- How many carbs are in a traditional hot chocolate?
- A regular medium-sized hot chocolate can have up to 40 grams of carbs per serving. However, this keto version contains just 1 gram of net carbs.
- Can I substitute milk with hot water in this recipe?
- While you can technically use hot water instead of milk, it might result in a less creamy texture. If you lack milk, consider using a sugar-free hot chocolate mix as an alternative.
- How should I store leftover keto hot chocolate?
- Although best enjoyed immediately, leftover hot chocolate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
- What’s the best way to reheat stored hot chocolate?
- You can reheat it by microwaving in 30-second intervals or warming it on the stove. Add marshmallows and whipped cream once it’s hot for the best experience.
Tips
- For an extra creamy texture, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or canned coconut milk.
- If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave the ingredients in a large bowl, heating in 30-second intervals until combined.
- Avoid using erythritol or monk fruit sweeteners, as they may not dissolve smoothly; opt for allulose or a liquid sweetener like keto maple syrup instead.
- To add a new flavor dimension, consider variations such as adding a drop or two of peppermint or hazelnut extract, or a tablespoon of instant coffee for a mocha twist.
Equipment
- Small Saucepan – If someone doesn’t already own a small saucepan suitable for heating liquids, they might need to purchase one.
- Whisk – A whisk is essential for combining the ingredients smoothly.
- Microwave-Safe Large Bowl – If opting for the microwave method, a large microwave-safe bowl may be necessary.
- Airtight Container – For storing leftovers, an airtight container is recommended.
- Milk Frother – Optional, but useful if wanting to create frothy milk or whipped cream at home.
- stocked kitchen, they could be necessary purchases.
