Drinks

Paleo “Anti-Inflammatory” Hot Chocolate Recipe

Name: Paleo “Anti-Inflammatory” Hot Chocolate Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Paleo
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk; 1 cup water; 2 tablespoons raw cacao powder; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 to 1 teaspoon ground ginger, to taste; 1/2 to 3/4 teaspoon ground turmeric, to taste; Pinch of nutmeg; Pinch of sea salt; Dash of freshly ground black pepper; Stevia, maple syrup, or honey, as desired

ByAiden Wells November 21, 2025November 21, 2025

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Introduction

This Paleo “Anti-Inflammatory” Hot Chocolate is a cozy, warming drink packed with spices known for their soothing properties. It’s a delicious way to enjoy chocolate while supporting your wellness with ingredients like turmeric, ginger, and cinnamon.

A close-up image showing a creamy light brown latte with a frothy surface and small bubbles on top inside a white ceramic cup with black speckles. The cup is held gently with both woman’s hands at the sides and bottom, with a soft pink blurred background behind. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup almond or coconut milk, unsweetened
1 cup water
2 Tbsp raw cacao powder
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 – 1 tsp ground ginger, depending on taste
1/2 – 3/4 tsp ground turmeric, depending on taste
Pinch of nutmeg
Pinch of sea salt
Dash of freshly ground black pepper
Stevia, maple syrup, or honey as desired

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium saucepan, gently heat the almond or coconut milk, water, cinnamon, ginger, turmeric, nutmeg, sea salt, and black pepper over medium heat.
Step 2: Stir for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to infuse evenly.
Step 3: Add the raw cacao powder and stir thoroughly until well combined and smooth.
Step 4: Sweeten with stevia, maple syrup, or honey to your preference.
Step 5: Whisk briskly or use a milk frother to create a light froth if desired, then serve warm.

Tips & Variations

Start with 1/2 tsp of ground ginger and adjust according to your preference for a stronger or milder ginger kick.
Use almond milk for a lighter flavor or coconut milk for a richer, creamier texture.
For extra warmth, add a small piece of fresh turmeric or ginger while heating and strain before serving.

Storage

Store any leftover hot chocolate in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before serving to restore the flavors and texture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a speckled light grey ceramic mug filled with light brown frothy coffee foam, held gently by a woman's hand from behind and below, against a white marbled texture background. The foam is smooth with tiny bubbles covering the surface evenly, and the mug's handle is on the left side, visible in the shot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of almond or coconut milk?

Yes, regular cow’s milk can be used if you are not following a Paleo or dairy-free diet. It will still taste delicious.

Why is black pepper added to this hot chocolate?

Black pepper enhances the absorption of turmeric’s beneficial compounds, making the drink more effective as an anti-inflammatory beverage.