Winter is coming which calls for all things warm, which is why we’re bringing you this Dark Chocolate Chai. We are oozing over the creamy deliciousness and decadent flavor in this recipe. Not to mention, dark chocolate has a range of health benefits. We’ll take any excuse to throw it into a recipe!

Dark chocolate has been researched to be beneficial in a number of ways. For starters, it is a good source of iron, magnesium, manganese, and copper. It also contains plenty of zinc, potassium, phosphorous, and selenium. Dark chocolate also contains powerful antioxidants which can help fight off chronic diseases by fighting free radicals.

You may already know about the vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants in dark chocolate, but did you know that it may also improve blood flow and lower blood pressure? Dark chocolate contains flavanols that may stimulate the arteries to relax and therefore lower blood pressure. On top of that, there is some other research that shows it may help to increase HDL (good cholesterol) and lower LDL (bad cholesterol). Combine the cholesterol and blood pressure effects of dark chocolate and we have an overall decrease in risk of cardiovascular disease. Keep in mind, that this doesn’t mean you should eat five bars of dark chocolate (as tempting as that sounds) Aim for one ounce per serving, which is the equivalent of a small square.

Let’s get these brewing. In a small pot, add the cardamom seeds, peppercorns, cinnamon, ginger, and water. Bring to a boil, and cook over low heat for 10 minutes. Turn off the heat, and add the black tea. Allow to steep for 4-5 minutes. Remove the tea bags, and turn the flame back on to low. Add the milk and dark chocolate. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until all chocolate is melted. Add maple syrup to taste, and strain into 2 mugs. That’s it! If you want an extra punch in flavor, let the spices soak in the water overnight after boiling, and then proceed onto the next steps.

Practice some self lovin and snuggle up to some Netflix for your next Friday night with this cozy Dark Chocolate Chai. How many of you have made your own chai at home before? What do you think of the dark chocolate & chai mix? Let us know what you think in the comments below!

Dark Chocolate Chai

Servings: 2

Ingredients

6 cardamom seeds
2 peppercorns
2 cinnamon sticks
1 " piece of fresh ginger sliced
2 cups water
2 black tea bags
2 cups unsweetened soy or almond milk
1 ounce dark chocolate small square
Maple syrup to taste (we used 1 1/2 tablespoons)

Instructions

In a small pot, add the cardamom seeds, peppercorns, cinnamon, ginger, and water
Bring to a boil, and cook over low heat for 10 minutes
Turn off the heat, and add the black tea. Allow to steep for 4-5 minutes
Remove the tea bags, and turn the flame back on to low
Add the milk and dark chocolate
Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring frequently, until all chocolate is melted
Add maple syrup to taste, and strain into 2 mugs. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

If you want a really strong chai flavor, let the spices soak in the water overnight after boiling, and proceed with the rest of the steps the next day!