Candy Cane Hot Chocolate Mix
Instead of adding chunks of sugar-filled candy cane, this classic has been given a healthy twist with no compromise to taste. Look for high-quality organic peppermint loose-leaf tea to ensure you get the most authentic flavor with some additional antioxidant benefits to boot. Hint: Our mix makes perfect stocking stuffers for pennies a bag!
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Makes: 3½ cups mix
Hands-on Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
INGREDIENTS:
- 2 cups milk powder
- 1/2 cup Sucanat
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp peppermint tea leaves, crumbled
- 1 cup dark chocolate (70% cocoa
- or greater), chopped
- Cinnamon sticks, for garnish, optional
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a bowl, stir together milk powder, Sucanat, cocoa powder, tea leaves and dark chocolate. Spoon into an airtight container, seal and store at room temperature for up to 1 month.
To Brew: Stir 1/4 cup hot chocolate mix into 1 cup very hot milk until mix is dissolved and well blended. Garnish with cinnamon stick (if using).
Gift Giving: Spoon this mix into decorative holiday tins or small cellophane bags that can be found at discount stores. Attach a tag with serving instructions and some fresh peppermint tied with ribbon or raffia.
Ditch the White Sugar: Sweetening this family favorite with natural ingredients, such as Sucanat, instead of traditional white sugar allows this holiday hit to become a lower-glycemic treat.
Nutrients per serving (¼ cup mix): Calories: 170,Total Fat: 5 g, Sat. Fat: 3.5 g,Carbs: 28 g, Fiber: 2 g, Sugars: 20 g, Protein: 7 g, Sodium 380 mg, Cholesterol: 0 mg