After an evening of shoveling snow or a walk through Jack Frost territory, sometimes you really want a treat, but can’t bear the thought of baking.

Nothing warms the soul (or the bones) like a warm cup of homemade hot cocoa– maybe even spiced with little peppermint in accordance with the current season.

There’s no entirely guilt-free hot chocolate, but using low-fat milk and dark chocolate cocoa powder will ensure a healthier sip. Flavanoids (anti-oxidants) are found in dark chocolate and help reduce high blood pressure. Dark chocolate releases endorphins and you can get your chocolate fix without the shame that comes with a piece of cake. Sold on cocoa? It’s simple to make and enjoy.

Healthy Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Serves 2 (aka perfect for snuggling!)

Ingredients

2 cups low fat milk

2 tablespoons 70 % dark cocoa powder

2 teaspoon sweetener

1/4 teaspoon Peppermint Extract

Instructions

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until steaming.

2. Add cocoa powder, peppermint extract and sweetener and whisk to combine ingredients.

3. Whisk the cocoa powder, peppermint extract and sweetener until well-blended.

If you’re looking for something a little stronger (or perhaps edible) that incorporates chocolate and some other delectable favorites, Oatmeal Chocolate Granola Bars are a gooey goodie you need to try. The sugar count is high, so eat with some restraint.

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter

1/2 cup coconut oil

2 cup oats (do not sub in instant)

1 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips

2/3 cup of honey

1/2 cup shredded coconut

Instructions

1. In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the peanut butter, honey, and coconut oil.

2. Remove from the heat and add oats, chocolate chips, and shredded coconut. Incorporate ingredients

fully. Make sure the chocolate chip bits melt (why it’s a good idea to use mini).

3. Spread into a pan and chill in the fridge for 2 hours (or until hardened).

4. Cut into squares and snack!

 

-Arianna Schioldager