Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (2024)

by Chef Mireille 10 Comments

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Last Updated on November 29, 2020 by Chef Mireille

Spicy Cardamom Hot Cocoa is perfectly balanced with chili and cardamom to elevate a simple cup of hot cocoa into something spectacular.

Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (1)

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Do you have a favorite spice? What is it?

For me, cardamom is definitely on my list of top 3. With its heady aroma and intoxicating flavor, no wonder it is the preferred spice for sweet things in many regions of the world like Scandinavia, the Middle East and South Asia.

No wonder it is so treasured. It is one of the most expensive spices in the world, after saffron.

Have you ever had cardamom coffee? I often have it when I visit Middle Eastern restaurants. Since I am already a fan of this, I thought about incorporating this beloved spice into a cozy winter drink.

I had no doubt the hot cocoa would be just as delicious, but of course I always have to add my own little twist to things. Instead of plain old chocolate, I had a bar of spicy chili chocolate. So this hot chocolate is kind of a Middle Eastern/Mexican fusion, since Mexicans as well as many other South American countriesare known for adding a little chili in their hot chocolate. It elevates the flavor of the chocolate in the same way we add a pinch of salt in baked goods to bring out the best flavor.

Fair Trade Chocolate

Several brands now offer chili flavored chocolate, but it is very important which chocolate company you choose to patronize. The chocolate industry has one of the worst records of child/slave labor.

If you are not sure if the company is ethically sourced, look for fair trade labeled chocolate. If it says it is fair trade, you can be reasonably sure that the cacao used to make their chocolates is ethically sourced. Here’s a list of a few brands you want to avoid, as an ethical consumer!

Sadly, this list includes many of the major chocolate brands on our supermarket shelves.

I’ve researched the brands below to ensure they are all ethically sourced chocolate companies.

Ethical Chocolate

Before we get to the Spicy Hot Chocolate Recipe, you need a treat to enjoy with your Hot Cocoa right!

Here are a few Tea Time Treats you might want to try to enjoy with this delicious cup of hot chocolate!

Snack Cake Recipes

  • Cardamom Coffee Pound Cake
  • Sweet Potato Pound Cake
  • Passionfruit Coconut Tea Cake
  • Lemon Lavender Tea Cake
  • Applesauce Cake
  • Assam Tea Brownies
  • Pistacchio Crusted Rose Mango Cake

TO REMEMBER

You can use regular chocolate and just add a pinch of cayenne pepper!

So let’s check the pantry and make sure we have all of the ingredients to make this delectable Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate.

Ingredients

Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (2)Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (3)

Variations & Substitutions

Can I use a different spice?

Sure. Many spices compliment hot chocolate like cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger and allspice.
You can even use a combination of a few or all of these spices.

What if I can’t find any chili chocolate?

Just use regular chocolate and add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

I’m a little concerned it might be too spicy for my kids.

It is just a hint of spice in the background, but you can easily just use regular chocolate without the chili.
It will still be super flavorful infused with the cardamom.

Now whose in the mood for hot cocoa? Feel free to double or more…to increase quantity and make delicious Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate for a crowd!

What is FAQ?

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What is FAQ?

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Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (4)

Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (5)

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Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate

Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate is a spicy and fragrant hot chocolate.

Prep Time3 minutes mins

Cook Time12 minutes mins

Total Time15 minutes mins

Course: beverages

Cuisine: Continental

Servings: 1 person

Calories: 584kcal

Ingredients

Instructions

  • Crush cardamom with the back of a knife. Transfer all seeds and pod to a saucepan and add milk.

  • Cook on medium heat for 10 minutes. Watch heat and if the milk is boiling too hard, lower heat as you don’t want the milk to scorch.

  • While the milk is simmering, melt the chocolate. Using the double boiler method, melt the chocolate and the butter until completely melted and smooth.

  • Add melted chocolate, vanilla and sugar. Stir to combine and simmer 1 more minute.

  • Strain to remove the cardamom pieces and serve immediately.

Notes

You can use regular chocolate without chili if you prefer.

If you cannot find chili chocolate, just add a pinch of cayenne pepper or your favorite variety of chili pepper.

Nutrition

Calories: 584kcal | Carbohydrates: 58g | Protein: 12g | Fat: 34g | Saturated Fat: 20g | Cholesterol: 39mg | Sodium: 148mg | Potassium: 711mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 45g | Vitamin A: 520IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 334mg | Iron: 4mg

Did you try this recipe? Leave a comment below.Please follow me on Instagram @chefmireille or tag me #chefmireille with your pics! I’d love to share them!

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Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (9)
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Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (11)

About Chef Mireille

CHEF MIREILLE - AUTHOR, RECIPE DEVELOPER AND PHOTOGRAPHER FOR Global Kitchen Travels
***
Chef Mireille is a NYC based freelance chef instructor and food photographer. Due to her very diverse family background, she was able to travel and learn about global cultures and flavors from a young age. Her passion for culture, cooking, history and education had made her an expert on developing traditional globally inspired recipes & delicious fusion cuisine.
Her extensive travel history provides a plethora of background information and Travel Tips!

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (12)Varada

    This will come handy once temperatures drop. I love the blend of spices and chocolate you have used.

    Reply

  2. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (13)sapna

    Hot chocolate with cardamom sounds perfect for a little cold weather like here now.

    Reply

  3. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (14)Usha

    soucy cardamom chocolate drink sounds perfect for coming cold days.

    Reply

  4. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (15)Srivalli

    Sounds like a delicious drink to indulge in cold days..and its nice to know you are so busy!

    Reply

  5. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (16)Priya

    Love to finish that cup of spicy hot chocolate, lipsmacking here.

    Reply

  6. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (17)Sneha datar

    Would love to have this just before going to bed.

    Reply

  7. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (18)Pavani

    Cardamom in hot chocolate sounds delicious. Love the use of spicy chocolate here.

    Reply

  8. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (19)Harini

    Love the favor of cardamom.

    Reply

  9. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (20)Jenn

    I am a huge cardamom fan as well! In fact I love all the spicy flavors you have going on here – not the mention the chocolate! 🙂

    Reply

  10. Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (21)Sowmya

    I make hot chocolate all the time for my kiddo…..will try this grown up version for myself! Yummm

    Reply

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Spicy Cardamom Hot Chocolate Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Does cardamom pair with chocolate? ›

In the world of flavors, some combinations are so perfect they seem destined to be together. One such match is the pairing of cardamom and dark chocolate. Cardamom, with its warm, spicy-sweet aroma and citrusy undertones, is a spice that has been prized for centuries.

What can you add to hot chocolate to make it taste better? ›

The 15 Best Things To Add To Hot Chocolate
  1. Add an extract. A quick and easy way to add flavor to your hot chocolate is by adding a splash of your favorite extract. ...
  2. Sprinkle in warm spices. ...
  3. Mix in Nutella. ...
  4. Swirl in caramel. ...
  5. Spike it. ...
  6. Infuse it with orange. ...
  7. Swap regular sugar for maple syrup. ...
  8. Add a shot (of coffee)
Dec 4, 2023

Why do people put marshmallows in hot chocolate? ›

The lightness and creaminess created by melting marshmallows or whipped cream into hot cocoa to balance the thickness and richness of the chocolate perfectly. Not to mention, everyone loves using hot chocolate as an excuse to eat marshmallows straight out of the bag or whipped cream right from the can.

What alcohol to put in hot chocolate? ›

Adding a splash of alcohol like rum, brandy, or whisky can transform your hot chocolate into a truly indulgent and sophisticated drink. So go on, delve into the delicious world of spiked hot chocolate, experiment with your favourite flavours, and enjoy every sip of your carefully crafted, indulgent beverage.

Should I add cornstarch to my hot chocolate? ›

If the hot chocolate doesn't thicken, add a slurry of cornstarch and milk (dissolve ¼ teaspoon of cornstarch in a tablespoon of cold milk) to the hot chocolate and continue stirring over medium high heat until slightly thickened.

Can hot chocolate powder go out of date? ›

Consuming expired hot chocolate powder can potentially make you ill, although it's relatively rare if the product has been stored correctly. Hot chocolate powder usually has a long shelf life and often remains safe to consume after its best-before date, but its flavour and texture might be compromised.

Who should not use cardamom? ›

Potential Risks of Cardamom

People with gallstones should not take cardamom except to flavor food. We also need more research to determine the effects of large amounts of cardamom on women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you're considering taking cardamom as a supplement.

Does cardamom make you go to the bathroom? ›

Cardamom

For chronic constipation, drinking cardamom tea can help ease bowel movements. It is also known to alleviate nausea, vomiting, and heartburn sensations, which are prevalent in conjunction with constipation. Cardamom, either in your diet or in the form of Cardamom tea, will keep your digestive system happy.

What is the secret ingredient in gourmet hot chocolate? ›

Marshmallows: The Unsung Hero

Believe it or not, the secret ingredient in gourmet hot chocolate is none other than marshmallows. These fluffy, sweet confections are the unsung heroes of the hot chocolate world, adding a delightful creaminess and hint of sweetness that takes the drink to a whole new level.

How to doctor up hot chocolate? ›

Other Ways to Upgrade Your Hot Chocolate:
  1. caramel.
  2. a scoop of ice cream.
  3. cinnamon, nutmeg or vanilla extract.
  4. orange zest.
  5. a tablespoon of fresh-brewed espresso or coffee.
  6. peppermint stick.
  7. dark, milk, or white chocolate shavings.
  8. coconut or almond milk (use in place of regular milk)
Dec 1, 2015

What is the best flavor of hot chocolate? ›

Still, the Milk Chocolate hot cocoa reigns supreme. Made with cocoa powder, powdered nonfat milk, and coconut oil, Swiss Miss has a surprisingly creamy mouthfeel and balanced sweetness.

Why do people put cheese in their hot chocolate? ›

A little bit of salt enhances the flavors of chocolate and creates a much more complex gastronomical experience. Colombian hot chocolate is exactly the same. Adding a bit of salty cheese to the cup makes the chocolate's notes more pronounced.

How to prevent marshmallows from melting in hot chocolate? ›

It comes down to a matter of timing: how can you keep the marshmallows intact until you drink the cocoa?
  1. Drink the cocoa more quickly.
  2. Use larger marshmallows.
  3. Add more marshmallows as necessary.
Oct 11, 2012

What was hot chocolate originally used for? ›

The drink became popular in Europe after being introduced from Mexico in the New World and has undergone multiple changes since then. Until the 19th century, hot chocolate was used medicinally to treat ailments such as liver and stomach diseases.

What is it called when you put hot chocolate in coffee? ›

Caffè mocha, in its most basic formulation, can also be referred to as hot chocolate with (e.g., a shot of) espresso added. Like cappuccino, caffè mochas typically contain the distinctive milk froth on top; as is common with hot chocolate, they are sometimes served with whipped cream instead.

What is rum and chocolate milk called? ›

4 cl Brandy (or rum, optional) 12 cl Chocolate milk, chilled.

What do baristas use to make hot chocolate? ›

I work as a barista on the side, and our shops use sauces for hot chocolates and mochas. Most use Monin dark chocolate sauce, which we lightly dilute with hot water before topping off with steamed milk.

What is the best thickener for hot chocolate? ›

The cornstarch version thickened quickly, making the hot chocolate very thick and creamy, and in the end we decided on a combination of cornstarch and confectioner's sugar, for the ideal texture and sweetness.

Should you stir hot chocolate? ›

If you don't make the cocoa into a smooth paste before adding, it will almost certainly be lumpy. The recipe details how to do this, but basically you just mix the cocoa powder with a little milk and stir to make a paste before adding the rest of the liquid and ingredients together. Stirring also helps!

How do you make hot chocolate powder not clumpy? ›

Another trick is to mix the cocoa powder with a small amount of a dry ingredient from the recipe, such as sugar or flour. This helps to disperse the cocoa powder more evenly and prevents clumping.

Does hot chocolate help you sleep? ›

Drinking hot chocolate milk at night can potentially help improve sleep quality, thanks to the soothing psychological effects of consuming a warm drink and the tryptophan content in cocoa. Plus, milk contains calcium and vitamin D, nutrients important for overall health, including the regulation of sleep.

Can a 3 year old drink hot chocolate? ›

Drinks to limit or avoid

Pop, coffee, energy or sport drinks, fruit punches, hot chocolate, sweetened milks and tea are not recommended for children even if water is added. These drinks are high in sugar and/or caffeine and are not suitable for toddlers or children of any age.

Can you freeze hot chocolate? ›

Flavor Variations: Use any flavor of hot cocoa mix, like mint, caramel, or dark chocolate. Freezing Instructions: This treat is best made fresh, but leftovers could be frozen, and then re-blended when ready to eat.

What pairs well with cardamom? ›

Cardamom harmonizes beautifully with warming spices, such as cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg, to infuse dishes with captivating essence. Bringing forth a medley of flavor, this remarkable spice can elevate a variety of dishes, like stews, soups and curries, baked goods, desserts, and beverages such as coffee or tea.

What flavor pairs well with chocolate? ›

Chocolate goes perfectly with many spices, such as tea, vanilla, salt, chilli, vinegar, mint... the possibilities are endless! As far as cheese is concerned, milk chocolate with Piedmont Hazelnuts goes perfectly with mature and flavoursome cheeses.

What blends with cardamom? ›

Oils that blend well with Cardamom oil

Whether you are creating your own essential oil diffuser blend, or looking for the best companion for Cardamom, consider using Cinnamon, Clove, Ginger, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Fennel, Patchouli, Ylang Ylang, or citrus essential oils.

References

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