Hot Cocoa that tastes divine and nourishes your body — yes, please!

As the chilly weather settles in, there’s nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a cozy sweater, grabbing a soft blanket and sipping a warm cup of cocoa. But this isn’t just any hot cocoa — this is Spiced Elderberry Hot Cocoa. This delightful blend warms you up and boosts your immune system.

I’m Lindsey, founder of Elderberry Queen and a busy mom of five boys who knows the importance of staying healthy, especially during the colder months. That’s why I’m excited to share this special recipe with you. It’s rich, comforting and infused with our signature Organic Elderberry Syrup, making it the perfect treat to enjoy all season long. 

So get ready to whip up this drink and curl up on the couch to relax! This spiced cocoa will add a touch of warmth and wellness to your day.

A Chocolate Lover’s Dream

For those who can’t get enough chocolate (like meee), this hot cocoa is a dream come true. Each sip is a rich, velvety indulgence that satisfies even the most intense chocolate cravings.

The creamy milk combines with the cocoa to create a smooth, silky drink that makes you feel like you need to hide it from your kids. Guess what? It’s totally fine not to share — no judgment here, friend! Fortunately, it’s healthy enough that even they can enjoy a cup — guilt-free!

Why You’ll Love This Hot Cocoa Recipe

Juuust in case you’re still deciding whether to try this recipe, here are a few reasons I know you’ll love it!

• Chock Full of Immune-Boosting Power: Packed with our organic elderberry syrup, this cocoa not only warms you up but also supports your immune system with every sip.
• Fall Flavor Delight: The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves adds a cozy, autumnal twist that makes this hot cocoa a seasonal favorite.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Skip the artificial additives — this recipe uses natural, high-quality ingredients for a rich and satisfying flavor.
• Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy days, this hot cocoa is simple to make and requires just a few ingredients, so you can enjoy a comforting treat without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe is a delicious, hearty way to bring everyone together, whether you’re relaxing after a long day or sharing a warm moment with loved ones.

You’re ready to grab all the ingredients and make this recipe now, right? Great. Let’s get into what you’ll need from the kitchen.

Ingredients for Your Spiced Elderberry Hot Cocoa

To make this Spiced Elderberry Hot Cocoa, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. These ingredients come together to create a rich and comforting drink. Here’s what you’ll need:

A Splash of Elderberry Syrup: Our Organic Elderberry Syrup is the star of this recipe, adding a natural sweetness and immune-boosting properties.

1 Tablespoon Cocoa Powder: Choose high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder for a deep, rich chocolate flavor that serves as the base of your hot cocoa.

1/2 Teaspoon of Spices: 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg and 1/8 teaspoon of cloves bring a warm, aromatic touch to your cocoa, creating that cozy fall feel with every sip.

1 Cup Milk of Choice: Whether you prefer dairy or plant-based options like almond or oat milk, this is the base liquid that makes your cocoa creamy and smooth.

1 Heaping Tablespoon of Honey or Maple Syrup: Use natural sweeteners to balance the bitterness of the cocoa and spices, adding a touch of sweetness without refined sugars.

Optional Toppings: For an extra touch, whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick can be added.

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s get cooking. Ready, set, go!  

How to Make Spiced Elderberry Hot Cocoa

Here are the step-by-step instructions for making this yummy cup of deliciousness. It’s super easy, I promise!

Feel free to customize your hot cocoa with different milk options or adjust the spices to suit your taste! 

Now it’s time to jump into your fleece pjs, grab your favorite blanket and curl up with your chocolate lover's cup of goodness. Yum!

Pro Tips for the Best Hot Cocoa

Here are just a few tips to make sure you end up with the best hot cocoa ever!

Use High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For the richest flavor, choose a high-quality, unsweetened cocoa powder. It makes a noticeable difference in the depth and intensity of the chocolate taste.

Warm Milk Slowly: Heat the milk over medium heat and avoid boiling. Heating it slowly helps prevent scorching and ensures you achieve the creamy texture you’re craving.

Whisk Thoroughly: Whisk the cocoa powder and spices into the milk thoroughly to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth, velvety consistency.

Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Start with the suggested amount of sweeteners and adjust according to your preference. You can always add more but can’t remove it once it’s mixed in.

Add Toppings for Extra Flavor: Enhance your cocoa with a dollop of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon or a few marshmallows. These extras add a delightful touch and elevate the overall experience.

Keep It Warm: If you’re making a batch for a group, keep the cocoa warm in a slow cooker on the “keep warm” setting or in a thermos. This way, everyone can enjoy it at the perfect temperature.

Experiment With Flavors: Feel free to experiment with different spices or flavor extracts, like peppermint or orange, to create your own signature hot cocoa blend.

Make It Ahead: Prepare a large batch and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently when needed for a quick and easy treat.

These tips will help you create the perfect cup of spiced elderberry hot cocoa every time, making each sip a cozy, satisfying experience.

More Warm & Tasty Sips

As you enjoy your Spiced Elderberry Hot Cocoa, remember that there are plenty of other cozy beverages to keep you warm throughout the season. 

At Elderberry Queen, we offer a variety of organic loose-leaf teas, including Golden Tea, Calming Chamomile, Immunity Infusion and more — perfect for relaxing and unwinding. 

Our raw honey adds a natural sweetness to any drink, and our tea infusers make brewing your favorites a breeze. Explore our collection to find the perfect match for every mood and moment. Let us help you create those special, comforting experiences that make the colder months truly enjoyable!