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Chai Hot Chocolate

This chai hot chocolate is a decadent cup of smooth, melted dark chocolate, and milk steeped with chai spices. Top it with whipped cream for a cozy treat!

Course Dessert, Drinks
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 inch knob of fresh ginger, peeled
  • 2 cinnamon sticks
  • 6 cardamom pods
  • 2 whole star anise
  • 1 teaspoon whole cloves
  • 1 teaspoon whole allspice
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 3/4 cup water
  • 3 tablespoons cocoa powder
  • 4 ounces chopped dark chocolate
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • pinch of salt
  • whipped cream for serving
  • cinnamon for garnish
  • ground cardamom for garnish

Instructions

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the whole milk, ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, star anise, cloves, allspice, and vanilla. Bring to a boil, then reduce to medium/medium-high heat and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until milk is fragrant and has reduced a bit. Don't let the mixture boil and be careful to not let the milk burn on the bottom of the pan.

  2. Strain milk through a fine mesh strainer and set aside in a bowl.

  3. In the same saucepan, add the water and bring to a boil. Add the cocoa powder and whisk until smooth and no lumps remain. Add the strained milk, dark chocolate, maple syrup, and salt and bring to a simmer. Whisk frequently, until mixture is smooth and chocolate is melted, 4-5 minutes.

  4. Serve with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon and ground cardamom!