I'm a writer and recent college grad with a degree in religion studies and communication.

Low-Calorie Hot Chocolate

Conventional hot chocolate or hot cocoa can often be a health nightmare because a typical cup can come in at well over 100 calories per serving. However, that doesn't mean you can't enjoy a delicious cup of cocoa. In fact, cocoa itself is incredibly healthy, being high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Unfortunately, many of these health benefits are obscured by the refined sugars, fat, calories, and often questionable ingredients in commercial hot chocolate preparations.

The recipe I've shared below will allow you to take full advantage of cocoa's many health benefits without sacrificing your waistline. All of the ingredients in this recipe are naturally calorie-free, with the exception of the cocoa, bringing the total calorie count to a mere 20 calories. It's also vegan and sugar-free. Enjoy it any time of day—I find it (sometimes) satisfies my cravings for dessert after dinner as well.

Cook Time

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa
• 1 cup water
• About 2 packets of stevia, roughly equivalent to 2 tablespoons sugar; adjust amount to taste
• Dash of salt, sea salt is best
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla or peppermint extract, optional

Instructions

1. Combine cocoa, stevia, and salt in heatproof mug and set aside.
2. Microwave water on high for 1 to 1 1/2 minutes.
3. Slowly add hot water to dry ingredients, mixing constantly.
4. Add vanilla, peppermint, or other extract of choice for added flavor!

Ratings

Comments

Tori Leumas on July 10, 2015:

I love hot chocolate, but I can't have sugar. I may have to try this. Great hub!

Jill Spencer from United States on June 25, 2015:

I'm going to try this. I love hot chocolate, but you're right: the calories in it are a nightmare. Thanks for the recipe! --Jill

Katelyn on February 17, 2015:

I made hot chocolate similar to this recipe earlier today.. and I loved it! It is not near as good as regular hot chocolate, but is a must if you are watching your calories. I made mine with unsweetened almond milk instead of water and added 4 packs of stevia.

Jonathan Craig on January 01, 2015:

Thanks for the post, always looking for new ways to use stevia.

http://jonathancraig.org/5-reasons-invest-stevia-c...

Gina R on October 25, 2014:

Going to give this a shot since I love hot cocoa but watch everything I eat! Fit life problems lol!

peachy from Home Sweet Home on February 14, 2013:

wonderful idea. Using another alternative of sugar added to unsweeten chocs is clever. Voted up