Italian Hot Chocolate WFPB (Cioccolata Calda)
Italian Hot Chocolate, known as “Cioccolata Calda” in Italian, is a rich and decadent hot chocolate beverage that differs from the more common hot cocoa found in many other places. Cioccolata Calda is known for its thick and
Post Date: January 11, 2024
Posted by: Donna SpencerThis post may contain affiliate links. Read my full disclosure here.
creamy consistency, making it almost like a liquid chocolate dessert. Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolata Calda) is generally much richer than traditional American hot chocolate, which is less dense and milkier.
Cioccolata Calda is popular in Italy, especially during the colder months. It is enjoyed as a comforting treat or dessert. It can be topped with whipped cream, cocoa powder, or chocolate shavings for an extra touch of decadence. My version tops it with frothed plant-based milk and chocolate shavings to keep the calories low.
It is easy to convert Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolata Calda) to whole food plant-based. This version avoids processed ingredients and dairy while still maintaining a rich and creamy texture.
The main ingredients typically include high-quality dark chocolate, milk, sugar, and sometimes a small amount of cornstarch or potato starch to thicken the mixture. Some recipes may also include a touch of vanilla or other flavorings to enhance the taste.
The preparation involves melting finely chopped dark chocolate into a mixture of milk and sugar over low heat, stirring continuously to achieve a smooth and velvety texture. The result is a luxurious and indulgent hot chocolate that is often served in small, espresso-sized cups due to its richness.
Grocery List
Produce
–
Pantry
Plant-based milk
unsweetened cocoa powder
pure maple syrup or date syrup
high-quality dark chocolate
thickening agent (cornstarch or arrowroot powder)_
vanilla extract
Misc
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Add-Ins and Substitutions
Which plant-based milk you select is up to you. Many creamy plant-based milks come with a high caloric content, unwanted oils, and oils. I like the Silk brand of unsweetened cashew milk because it is thick, creamy, and 25 calories a cup with no added oils or additives.
Storing
Store the paste in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Nutrition 411
Cocoa powder is rich in polyphenols, which have significant health benefits, including reduced inflammation and improved cholesterol levels. It should be noted that processing cocoa into chocolate or other products can substantially decrease the polyphenol content. Studies reveal that cocoa is rich in flavanols, which lower blood pressure by improving nitric oxide levels and blood vessel function. Cocoa containing between 30–1,218 mg of flavanols may reduce blood pressure by an average of 2 mmHg. Eating up to one serving of chocolate per day may reduce your risk of heart attack, heart failure, and stroke. Cocoa may exert some positive effects on mood and symptoms of depression by reducing stress levels and improving calmness, contentment, and overall psychological well-being. However, more research is needed. (Trusted source.)
Italian Hot Chocolate (Cioccolata Calda)
Equipment
- Small sauce pan
Ingredients
- 2 cups plant-based milk such as almond, soy, oat, or cashew
- 3-4 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2-3 tablespoons pure maple syrup or date syrup adjust to taste
- 2 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), finely chopped about 60 grams
- 1 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch optional, for extra thickness
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract optional
- frothed plant-based milk optional topping
- chocolate shavings optional topping
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients.
- In a small bowl, mix the cocoa powder with a few tablespoons of plant-based milk to create a smooth paste. This helps prevent lumps in the hot chocolate.
- In a small bowl, mix the cornstartch or arro root with a few tablespoons of plant-based milk to create a slurry.
- In a saucepan, heat the remaining plant-based milk over medium heat until it's warm but not boiling.
- Add the cocoa paste to the warm milk, stirring constantly to combine.
- Add the chopped dark chocolate to the mixture, continuing to stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture becomes smooth.
- If you want a thicker consistency, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of whole grain flour or a thickening agent like arrowroot powder. Whisk well to avoid lumps.
- Sweeten the hot chocolate with pure maple syrup or date syrup to taste. Adjust the sweetness according to your preference.
- If using, add vanilla extract for extra flavor. Stir well.
- Continue to heat the mixture over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches your desired temperature.
- Once the hot chocolate is ready, pour it into cups and serve immediately.
- Optional Toppings 1: For a low-calorie topping, froth some plant-based milk and pour on top of hot chocolate, sprinkle with shaved chocolate.2: Place a dollop of plant-based whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra treat.
Notes
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