SPICED HOT COCOA

SPICED HOT COCOA

Turn everyday hot cocoa into something warm, aromatic, and café-worthy with this Spiced Chocolate Hot Cocoa recipe featuring NPG Whole Star Anise Seeds. The cocoa stays rich and chocolatey, while star anise adds a delicate licorice-like fragrance with sweet, herbal undertones. Comforting, subtle, and perfect for cooler nights or holiday-style sipping.

Because NPG Whole Star Anise is used whole, it gently infuses the drink (similar to bay leaves in soups) and is removed at the end, leaving behind a smooth, spiced aroma without any gritty texture.

Ingredients (Serves 2)

  • 2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened oat milk)

  • 2 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder

  • 2 tbsp chocolate chips or chopped dark chocolate (for richer cocoa)

  • 1–2 tbsp sugar or honey (adjust to taste)

  • 1–2 pods NPG Whole Star Anise Seed

  • 1/4 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

  • Pinch of salt (optional, enhances chocolate flavor)

Optional toppings:

  • Whipped cream

  • Marshmallows

  • Chocolate shavings

  • Cinnamon dusting

Directions

  1. Warm and infuse
    In a small saucepan, add milk and NPG Whole Star Anise pods. Warm over medium-low heat until steaming (do not boil). Let it gently simmer for 3–5 minutes to infuse.

  2. Add chocolate + cocoa
    Whisk in cocoa powder, chocolate chips (or chopped chocolate), sweetener, and a pinch of salt. Continue whisking until fully melted and smooth, about 2–3 minutes.

  3. Steep for deeper flavor
    Turn off heat and let the star anise steep in the cocoa for 2–4 minutes (longer for a more pronounced aroma).

  4. Remove the star anise
    Take out the star anise pods (like removing bay leaves). Stir in vanilla if using.

  5. Serve warm
    Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings.

Serving Tip

For a café-style look, serve in a wide mug with whipped cream, a light cocoa dusting, and one star anise pod placed beside the mug for a cozy, elevated presentation.

Make It Your Own

  • Extra spiced: Add a small cinnamon stick while warming the milk.

  • Mocha-style: Replace 1/2 cup milk with brewed coffee (remove star anise before combining if preferred).

  • Holiday version: Add a tiny pinch of nutmeg and top with chocolate curls.

Try Spiced Chocolate Hot Cocoa with NPG Whole Star Anise Seed and bring a warm, aromatic twist to your favorite chocolate drink.

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