Want to know how to make a cacao drink that’s nutritious and delicious for any time of day? You’ve come to the right place.
From ancient traditions to modern kitchen adventures, cacao has been the real MVP for centuries. Which is why at The Cocoa Circle, we don’t just make cacao or cocoa products — we celebrate them, their history, and their limitless versatility.
Whether you’re new to it or already obsessed, here’s your easy, 4-step guide to creating a rich, nourishing cacao drink. Cacao magic, coming right up!
WhAT IS A CACAO DRINK
What is a cacao drink exactly? Many consider a cacao drink and ceremonial cacao to be the same, but a cacao drink is actually a fairly broad term. Ranging from a classic hot chocolate to ceremonial-grade cacao experiences, a cacao drink refers to any drink made from the sweet cocoa bean we hold dear. To sum it up, the list includes:
- Traditional drinks made from pure cacao paste or ceremonial cacao — minimally processed, this comes in a thick paste or solid blocks or discs. It contains all the natural fats (cacao butter) and a full spectrum of active compounds. They’re thicker, richer, more intense in flavour and have strong energising and heart-opening effects.
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Modern cacao drinks made from cacao powder or cocoa powder — these come in powdered forms and may or may not have been roasted and/or alkalized (Dutch-processed). They’re usually a bit lighter, smoother, and easier to dissolve, perfect for cosy mugs of hot chocolate. Whether they’re sweetened or kept pure is up to you!
✨ In short: All ceremonial cacao drinks are cacao drinks, but not all cacao drinks are ceremonial.
HOW TO Make a Cacao Drink?
Before diving into how to make a cacao drink, let’s quickly break-down what makes our favourite cacao drink so special.
Unlike traditional hot chocolate, which often contains sugar and processed cocoa, this cacao drink is made our high-quality Cocoa Powder that’s been lightly roasted and alkalised for a smooth chocolatey flavour, while free of additives and still retaining plenty of natural nutrients.
You could just as easily use raw cacao powder for the extra nutrients boost — though it would be slightly more bitter and less smooth. Either choice will boosts your mood and energy without the crash of caffeine.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED TO MAKE YOUR CACAO DRINK
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons of high-quality Cocoa Powder
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1 cup of plant-based milk or water – Almond, oat, coconut or cow’s milk for a creamy texture; water for a lighter, more traditional drink.
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1-2 teaspoons of sweetener (optional) – Honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar work great.
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A pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract (optional) – Adds cosy vibes.
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A pinch of sea salt – To make the chocolate flavour pop.
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Optional superfoods – Think maca powder, ashwagandha, or collagen if you want an extra boost.
Tools:
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Saucepan
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Whisk or frother
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Your favourite mug
Step 1: Heat Your Liquid
How to make a cacao drink? Start by warming your plant milk or water in a saucepan over medium heat.
Plant milk = creamy and rich.
Water = lighter and closer to the traditional cacao drinks enjoyed by ancient cultures.
Heat until warm but not boiling.
Step 2: Add COCOA Powder and Sweetener
Whisk in 2 tablespoons of premium Cocoa Powder. Sift it first if you want it extra smooth.
Add your sweetener here if you like things a bit sweeter — but honestly, the natural bitterness of cacao is delicious on its own.
Step 3: Whisk Until Smooth
Grab your whisk or frother and stir like you mean it!
The goal? A creamy, dreamy cacao drink with a little frothy top.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy your Cacao Drink
Pour into your favourite mug, inhale the chocolatey aroma, and sip slow.
You’re getting a natural energy boost and a big hug of nutrients like antioxidants and magnesium with every sip.
Customising Your Cacao Drink
One of the great things about learning how to make a cacao drink is discovering all the fun ways to change it up. Here are a few tasty twists to try:
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Chai-inspired: Add cardamom, ginger, and nutmeg for a spicy kick.
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Mocha twist: Drop in a shot of espresso.
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Iced cacao: Cool it down and pour over ice.
Why Choose BETTER COCOA Over Pre-mixed Hot Chocolate?
Most hot chocolate mixes are packed with sugars, dairy, and fillers that drown out what cacao’s really about. When you use quality raw cacao or pure cocoa powder — free from all the junk — you get the good stuff: rich antioxidants, fibre, and natural mood-boosters like theobromine and magnesium.
Raw cacao is cold-pressed to lock in its power, while top-quality cocoa powder is gently roasted for full, deep flavour — both are a serious upgrade from supermarket mixes.
And when you choose cacao that supports farmers and fairer trade? You’re not just tasting better cacao — you’re tasting a better way of being.
Next time you’re craving something warm and chocolatey, skip the sugar bombs.
Craft your ultimate cacao drink with premium Cocoa Powder, and sip to nourish your body, lift your mood, and celebrate the hands that made it possible.
