Happy December, everyone! Here in New England, it’s a bit chilly, so I’m taking full advantage and really going after warm beverages. Of course, that means keto hot chocolate, because who doesn’t want a delicious warming treat that is sugar free, low carb high fat and keto-friendly?
This keto hot chocolate is a little bit different, because I’ve included some warming spices and other thermogenic compounds to give a little kick in the pants to a sluggish winter metabolism. I’m not even going to pretend like I don’t get super lazy in the winter, so I figure every little bit helps. This post is 50% recipe, and 50% nutrition lesson, so enjoy!
I also did a super quick broadcast this morning on Periscope about the benefits of cinnamon. I’m @healthygamergrl there (and on Twitter!), so if you want some laughs, or to learn about nutrition here and there, come check it out!
Notes on Metabolism Boosting Keto Hot Chocolate:
- Coconut (oil/milk/just actual coconut) has demonstrated metabolism boosting properties. It’s also delicious, and adds a creaminess to this recipe.
- Instead of protein powder, you could just use 1 tbsp of cocoa powder, but it’ll be a lot less creamy and won’t have nearly the same protein content.
- Chocolate, and cacao really, are not only a rich source of flavonoids and antioxidants, but also contain high amounts of arginine, a precursor to the vasodilator nitric oxide. So, basically, when NO hits your system, your muscles relax and blood vessels open, allowing for more blood flow. This is similar to cinnamon!
- Cinnamon is another vasodilator and muscle relaxant that has been used in Ayurveda for thousands of years.
- I added about an 1/8th of a teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cayenne will definitely bring the heat and make you sweat! It might be a little too much, so feel free to dial it back and just add a pinch.
- Black pepper, in addition to adding a nice bite, contains the compound piperine, which has demonstrated metabolism boosting properties. Piperine also helps the body to absorb more curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric.
A rich, metabolism boosting, protein-rich hot chocolate to bring some warmth to your winter.
Ingredients
- 1 scoop Chocolate Whey Powder
- 2 tbsp canned coconut milk (the cooking type)
- 1/4 tsp powdered cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp cayenne pepper
- pinch black pepper (I did about 5 quick grinds on the pepper mill)
- 1 cup water, just about to boil
Method
- Heat the water until almost boiling.
- Add coconut milk and spices to your cup.
- Once the water is just about boiling (around 190-200F if you're using an electric kettle), pour a little over the coconut milk and spices, just enough to allow them to be whisked together. Mix until completely combined.
- Add in Chocolate Whey Powder, and the rest of the water, and mix until combined.
- Enjoy! Warm up!
