Hot Chocolate Without High Fructose Corn Syrup
There's nothing like a comforting cup of hot chocolate on a cold day. However, many store-bought hot chocolate mixes are loaded with high fructose corn syrup, a cheap and unhealthy sweetener that has been linked to a host of health problems. But don't despair, you can still enjoy a delicious cup of hot chocolate without the added sugars and artificial ingredients. In this article, we will share some easy and healthy hot chocolate recipes that are free of high fructose corn syrup.
What is High Fructose Corn Syrup?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a cheap and highly processed sweetener that is made from corn starch. It is commonly used in many processed foods and beverages because it is cheaper and easier to use than natural sugars. HFCS has been linked to various health problems, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease. It is also a major contributor to the global increase in sugar consumption.
Healthy Hot Chocolate Ingredients
Instead of using store-bought hot chocolate mixes that contain high fructose corn syrup, you can make your own hot chocolate using natural and healthy ingredients. Here are some ingredients that you can use to make healthy and delicious hot chocolate:
- Unsweetened cocoa powder
- Almond milk, coconut milk or any other plant-based milk
- Maple syrup or honey as a natural sweetener
- Cinnamon or nutmeg for added flavor
- Dark chocolate chips or cacao nibs for a richer chocolate flavor
Healthy Hot Chocolate Recipes
Recipe 1: Vegan Hot Chocolate
This vegan hot chocolate recipe is made with almond milk and sweetened with maple syrup. It's a healthy and delicious option for those who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Heat the almond milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it's steaming hot but not boiling.
- Add the cocoa powder, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and salt to the saucepan and whisk until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and enjoy!
Recipe 2: Spiced Hot Chocolate
This spiced hot chocolate recipe is perfect for those who love a little kick of flavor. The addition of cinnamon and nutmeg gives this hot chocolate a warm and cozy taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Heat the almond milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it's steaming hot but not boiling.
- Add the cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt to the saucepan and whisk until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and enjoy!
Recipe 3: Dark Chocolate Hot Chocolate
This dark chocolate hot chocolate recipe is for those who love a rich and decadent cup of hot chocolate. The addition of dark chocolate chips gives this hot chocolate an intense chocolate flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond milk
- 3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips
- A pinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Heat the almond milk in a saucepan over medium heat until it's steaming hot but not boiling.
- Add the cocoa powder, honey, vanilla extract, dark chocolate chips, and salt to the saucepan and whisk until the cocoa powder is fully dissolved and the chocolate chips are melted.
- Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and enjoy!
Conclusion
Hot chocolate is a classic winter drink that can be enjoyed any time of the day. However, many hot chocolate mixes contain high fructose corn syrup, which is an unhealthy and highly processed sweetener. By making your own hot chocolate using natural and healthy ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious cup of hot chocolate without the added sugars and artificial ingredients. Try our recipes and enjoy a warm and cozy cup of healthy hot chocolate!