Now that CBD is mainstream, it’s common to see it infused into all sorts of food and beverages, with cafes regularly advertising things like CBD smoothies and CBD lattes. But CBD hot chocolate? Could this be the latest craze?
Anyone who has tried unflavored CBD oil knows that the taste leaves much to be desired. While delicious flavored oils provide a solution to this problem, sublingual (under the tongue) consumption is still not for everyone. Beverages are the ideal fix, and there are few drinks tastier and more comforting than a hot cup of cocoa.
This article looks at why hot chocolate is actually scientifically a great way to consume CBD. We’ll also hook you up with four incredible cannabidiol-infused hot chocolate recipes using PureKana’s famous Natural CBD Tincture.
Why Try CBD Hot Chocolate?
In principle, CBD hot chocolate is the ultimate way to consume cannabinoids. Here are a few reasons why:
- Amazing taste: Even when mixed with an earthy, natural CBD oil, hot chocolate is delicious. Combine with some marshmallows, a dash of flavored cream, and maybe a hint of cinnamon, and there are few better ways to enjoy a chilly evening in on the couch or next to the fireplace.
- Adjustable dosage: One of the good things about making CBD hot chocolate at home is the ability to adjust the amount of CBD you’re using. You can use however many milligrams you need in order to achieve the relaxing effects you’re looking for.
- Relaxing: Many people take CBD by itself to unwind, but indulging along with a cup of hot cocoa adds a whole new layer. Curl up on the couch buried beneath cozy blankets, some candles, and a CBD hot chocolate, and you’ll quickly feel your stress melt away.
- Long-lasting effects: Since CBD beverages function like edibles, the CBD release takes place slowly over a long period of time – typically a couple of hours or more. As a result, you reap the calming effects of the CBD longer compared to something like a standard CBD oil.
Of course, hot chocolate isn’t for everyone. Also, since the effects take longer to kick in, you may need a higher dose of CBD in order to experience the same results that you would with your typical tincture.
It’s also no shocker to point out that CBD hot chocolate isn’t the best choice if you’re looking for a “healthy” option. Hot chocolate is naturally high in sugar and fat, and as a result, we recommend enjoying them as a once-in-a-while treat as opposed to a daily routine.
Picking the Best CBD for Hot Chocolate
There are multiple ways to infuse hot chocolate with CBD. First, you need to choose whether a CBD isolate or full-spectrum product is better suited to your needs. Isolate powders are excellent for stirring into drinks, while CBD oils make measuring easy.
Either way, it’s very important to note that CBD does not dissolve naturally in water. Instead, it dissolves in lipids, aka fat. For this reason, you need to use a milk or cream “base” in your hot chocolate in order for the CBD to completely dissolve and take on a pleasant consistency. If you use water, you’ll be left with oil floating on the surface of the hot chocolate.
Our favorite tincture for making CBD hot chocolate at home is the 600mg PureKana Vanilla oil. Our Natural and Mint flavors also work well for creating your very own delicious CBD hot chocolate beverage.
CBD Hot Chocolate Recipes
Below are four hot chocolate recipes infused with CBD. You can use any of your favorite CBD products, but make sure to calculate how many milligrams you’re adding, so you can keep track of your dosing to achieve the effects you’re looking for.
1. Classic CBD Hot Chocolate
This CBD hot chocolate is very basic. It’s a mug of comfort for those who don’t like to experiment with something new.
Serves: 1
You will need:
- 1 oz dark or milk chocolate
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar (optional)
- PureKana Natural CBD Oil
- 1 pinch cinnamon
- 1 pinch sea salt
Instructions:
- In a small saucepan, combine the chocolate (cut into chunks), cocoa powder, and ½ of the milk. Melt it together over a low heat, stirring to prevent burning.
- When the chocolate is completely melted, add the remainder of the milk, along with the cinnamon and the sea salt.
- Stir in the sugar a bit at a time until it dissolves, then add the CBD oil.
- Pour the hot chocolate into a mug. Top the cocoa with some whipped cream and marshmallows if you feel extra sweet.
2. CBD Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Mint hot chocolate is a true symbol of the holiday season, but you can enjoy it at any time of year. Chocolate and mint-flavored CBD go hand in hand, so this is a great recipe to have under your belt.
Serves: 2
You will need:
- 2 ½ cups coconut milk
- ¼ cup cacao powder
- 2 oz dark chocolate, chopped roughly
- 2 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- PureKana Mint CBD Oil
- ½ teaspoon peppermint extract
Instructions
- Add the 2 1/2 cups coconut milk to a small saucepan and heat on medium until it comes to a gentle boil.
- Switch off the heat and add all the other ingredients. Whisk until the chocolate is melted and the mixture is smooth.
- Pour into mugs and serve immediately. Optionally, top with whipped cream and crushed candy cane.
3. CBD Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate
Salted caramel is undeniably delicious, with a mouth-watering flavor that you won’t be able to get enough of. This is an easy recipe that you can whip up to impress guests.
Serves: 2
You will need:
- 1 ¼ cups milk
- 2 oz milk chocolate, roughly chopped
- ¼ tsp lemon juice
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- Big pinch of salt
- Caramel sauce
- PureKana Vanilla CBD Oil
Instructions:
- In a small mixing bowl, rub the lemon juice and sugar together until the sugar becomes damp and fragrant.
- Over a medium heat, preheat a small saucepan until it becomes hot. Then, add the sugar. Stir immediately and continuously as it turns to liquid and takes on a caramel consistency. Continue until it turns amber in color.
- Add the milk. The caramel may seize, but keep whisking as the milk warms and the caramel melts again.
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and add in the chocolate, whisking until it melts and reaches a smooth consistency.
- Add a large pinch of salt, then taste and add more if necessary.
- Serve in mugs topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce.
4. CBD Lavender Hot Chocolate
The relaxing properties of CBD and hot chocolate take on a new dimension when combined with lavender. If you’re struggling to sleep, then try this hot chocolate on for size and settle down. You’ll be off to dreamland in no time.
Serves: 1
You will need:
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp culinary lavender
- 2 tbsp cocoa powder
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- PureKana Sleep Aid Tincture
- Pinch of salt
- Edible flowers, to garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Add all the milk to a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.
- Add the lavender, cover, and steep for 10 mins over a low heat.
- Pour the lavender milk mixture through a tea strainer or sieve to remove the flowers.
- Blend the lavender milk with all the other ingredients.
- Pour into your favorite mug and serve.
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