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Cozy Mexican Hot Chocolate with Cinnamon

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This rich, warming Mexican hot chocolate is made by melting chocolate directly into milk with cinnamon sticks for a velvety, decadent drink that comes together in under 10 minutes. A pinch of chili powder enhances the chocolate flavor without adding heat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups whole milk (or 2% if preferred; oat milk works for dairy-free)
  • 2 Mexican chocolate tablets (Ibarra or Abuelita, broken into pieces)
  • 2 cinnamon sticks (Ceylon or Cassia)
  • 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed if available)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for garnish)
  • Pinch of chili powder (optional, ancho preferred)
  • Pinch of salt
  • Whipped cream or marshmallows (for topping)

Instructions

  1. Combine the milk and cinnamon sticks in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around the edges), about 3-4 minutes. Swirl occasionally.
  2. Add the broken chocolate pieces to the simmering milk. Reduce heat to low and whisk gently until fully melted and incorporated, about 2 minutes.
  3. Whisk in the cocoa powder, brown sugar, and salt. Whisk vigorously until smooth and no lumps remain, about 30 seconds.
  4. Remove the cinnamon sticks with a slotted spoon or tongs.
  5. Stir in the vanilla extract and chili powder (if using). Stir until combined, about 15 seconds.
  6. Taste and adjust sweetness or chocolate flavor as desired.
  7. Pour into warm mugs. Top with whipped cream or marshmallows, and sprinkle with ground cinnamon or grated chocolate. Serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t boil the milk; a gentle simmer is best. Break the chocolate into small pieces for faster melting. Whisk to create a frothy texture. Taste and adjust sweetness or chocolate flavor to your preference. For parties, make the base a day ahead and reheat gently.

Nutrition

Keywords: Mexican hot chocolate, cinnamon hot chocolate, hot chocolate recipe, winter drink, cozy drink, Mexican chocolate

Find it online: https://coracooks.com/cozy-mexican-hot-chocolate-with-cinnamon/