White hot chocolate is a drink that provides the body with some benefits such as calcium essential for bone and teeth health, and vitamin D and protein from milk that supports energy and activity. However, it contains a high percentage of sugar and saturated fat, making it a delicious but potentially harmful choice when consumed in excess. It is recommended to enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet to avoid its negative effects.

Recipe Ingredients:

To prepare four cups of white hot chocolate, you will need the following ingredients:   

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  •  
    • 4 cups of milk  
    • 1 cup of white chocolate chips  
    • 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract  
    • Grated chocolate for garnish (optional)  

Plant-based alternatives:  

Almond milk or coconut milk:

• plant-based alternatives to milk, rich in healthy fats and proteins.

Vegan white chocolate:

• made from cocoa butter and coconut oil, and does not contain any animal products. 

Benefits of plant-based alternatives:  

Plant-based milk (almond, coconut):

• Rich in vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and potassium, as well as dietary fiber that aids in digestion.

Vegan white chocolate:

• Contains antioxidants found in cocoa butter and coconut oil, and is cholesterol-free and dairy-free.  

Instructions:

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  • Heat the milk: 
• Place the milk in a saucepan over medium heat.
• Warm the milk slowly until small bubbles begin to form around the edges, but do not let it boil.
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  • Add chocolate and vanilla: 
• Reduce heat to low.
• Add the white chocolate chips to the milk, stirring constantly.
• Continue stirring until the white chocolate is completely melted and combined with the milk.
• Stir in the vanilla extract.
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  • Serve and garnish: 
• Remove the saucepan from the heat once the white chocolate is fully melted.
• Pour the hot white chocolate into serving mugs.
• For garnish, sprinkle with grated chocolate or add a marshmallow for extra warmth and flavor.

Tips and Variations:  

• Garnish options: In addition to grated chocolate, you can garnish with whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or mini marshmallows.

• Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet drink, reduce the amount of white chocolate used or use white chocolate with a lower sugar content.
• Experiment with flavors: Add different flavorings to enhance the taste, such as almond or hazelnut extract, or even a pinch of salt to bring out the sweetness.

Note: This recipe is suitable for those who enjoy sweet treats and are not lactose or chocolate intolerant. However, it is not suitable for people with milk or white chocolate allergies or those following a low-sugar diet.

Benefits of White Hot Chocolate: 

• Energy boost:  

White chocolate is high in calories, providing the body with energy.

• Mood enhancer:   

Consuming white chocolate can improve mood and promote feelings of happiness due to chemicals that stimulate the release of happiness hormones.

• Calcium source:   

The milk used in this recipe is rich in calcium, which strengthens bones and teeth.

Calories and nutritional values:  

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  • Milk (1 cup of whole milk):
• Calories: 150
• Fat: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 12g
• Protein: 8g
• Calcium: 300mg
• A rich source of calcium and protein, essential for bone and teeth health. Also contains B vitamins which support various bodily functions.
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  • White chocolate chips (¼ cup):  
• Calories: 180
• Fat: 10g
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Sugars: 18g
• Contains antioxidants that help protect the body from cell damage. It also contains stearic acid, a type of saturated fat that may help lower bad cholesterol levels.
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  • Vanilla extract (¼ teaspoon):  
• Calories: 3
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 0.5g
• Protein: 0g
• Contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, and helps improve mood and reduce stress.
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  • Garnish (optional):  
• Grated chocolate (1 tablespoon):   
  • Calories: 20
  • Fat: 1.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 2g
  • Protein: 0.5g

Total nutritional value per serving (1 cup):   

• Calories: 353 (without garnish)
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 32.5g
• Protein: 10g
• Sugars: 18.5g (without garnish)
• Calcium: 300mg

Please note that these nutritional values are approximate and may vary depending on the specific brands and types of ingredients used. Adding garnishes like grated chocolate can increase the calorie and nutrient content.

Conclusion: White hot chocolate is a perfect winter drink that provides warmth, comfort, and a delicious taste. Whether you enjoy it plain or with your favorite toppings, this recipe offers a touch of sweetness and warmth that you'll crave on cold days.