Hot Cocoa alternative (Carob)

A chocolate alternative for those prone to Acne, Migraines, and Digestive Issues…

I am obsessed with this hot creamy chocolate-y tasting hello to my soul delectable drink.

Well at least to my taste buds, may not be for everyone! LOL

I have been playing around with a recipe to get a healthier-type version of hot cocoa but without some of the ingredients that bother me. This is not actually chocolate at all! This recipe is made with Carob! Carob is a bean from the legume family, yes beans!The Carob evergreen tree is native to the Mediterranean region and the Middle East. Stay with me, don’t knock it until you try it. LOL!! Seriously!!! And there are some health benefits!

Why would I do that? For me personally, I’m prone to acne breakouts and have found that even dairy-free, cane-sugar free chocolate still breaks me out! So….. I have found my alternative so I can still enjoy some of my favorite treats with ingredients that will work for me!

Carob may also be a good alternative for those that have digestive issues or have been told to steer away from chocolate due to the caffeine and/or tyramine, a compound found in chocolate that can trigger migraines!

You can use carob powder and carob chips the same way as you would chocolate in almost all recipes!

Carob is:

  • Caffeine-free
  • Tyramine-free (a compound found in chocolate that can trigger migraines)  
  • High fiber
  • Contains Antioxidants
  • Gluten-free
  • Naturally sweet, not bitter in which can satisfy one’s sugar cravings naturally.  
  • A delectable way to still enjoy one’s favorite sweet treats with fewer calories, fat, and sugar.

 Random fact: If you happen to drop a piece on the floor and your dog comes rushing over like a vacuum cleaner – according to the ASPCA, it is non-toxic to dogs and cats.

Recipe: Place all ingredients in a pot over med-high heat, whisk all together. Whisk frequently until you have it to the warm/hot temperature you wish. Enjoy! This serving will fill a large mug or two small mugs.

·         1 heaping TBS Organic Carob Powder (found on Amazon and sometimes Natural Food stores)

·         1 TBS Organic Maine Maple Syrup

·         1 ¾ Cup Organic Chobani Extra Creamy Oat Milk (found at Hannafords/Shaws)

·         1 Dash Organic Cayenne Pepper (I know, but it gives it that chocolate burn) trust me! LOL

·         2 Dashes Organic Cinnamon

Optional: Top off with Coconut Whipped Cream and Cinnamon sprinkles!

AJ's Recipes