Hot Chocolate — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrition facts
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 77 kcal
| Nutrients per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 12 g | 4.36% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 7.14% |
| Sugars | 10 g | 20% |
| Glycemic Index | 60 | - |
| Protein | 3 g | 6% |
| Sodium | 60 mg | 2.61% |
| Total Fat | 3 | 3.85% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
3 g
🥕 Low Fat Content
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Health benefits
- Contains antioxidants such as flavonoids, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce inflammation.
- Enhances mood by stimulating the production of endorphins and serotonin.
- Provides quick energy from carbohydrates, making it a convenient source of fuel.
- Can support heart health by improving blood flow and lowering blood pressure due to its flavonoid content.
Health risks
- High sugar content which can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay, and increased risk of diabetes when consumed frequently.
- High fat content particularly in recipes made with whole milk or cream, which can raise cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease.
- High calorie content which can contribute to weight gain if consumed frequently or in large portions, especially when topped with whipped cream or marshmallows.
- Potential for caffeine-related side effects such as increased heart rate, insomnia, or anxiety, particularly if the hot chocolate contains a high percentage of cocoa.
How to choose hot chocolate
High-quality hot chocolate should be rich and creamy with a deep chocolate flavor. The color should be dark and uniform, indicating a high cocoa content.
Steer clear of hot chocolate mixes that are overly sweet or powdery, which can result in a chalky texture. Good hot chocolate should dissolve smoothly and offer a luxurious, comforting warmth.
How to store hot chocolate
Hot chocolate mix should be kept in a cool, dry place. Store it in an airtight container to prevent moisture absorption. Properly stored, hot chocolate mix remains ready for a cozy, delicious drink.
Exposure to moisture can cause the mix to clump and lose flavor. It’s advisable to avoid storing it near the stove. Maintaining a dry environment ensures its rich, chocolaty taste is preserved.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Hot chocolate mix can last for 1-2 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it is best to consume it within 6-12 months.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover hot chocolate can be used in a variety of indulgent ways. Pour it over ice cream as a rich chocolate sauce, or use it as a base for a chocolate milkshake by blending it with ice cream and milk. Hot chocolate is also great when mixed into cake or brownie batter for a rich, chocolatey flavor.
Use hot chocolate to make a mocha by mixing it with coffee, or freeze it into chocolate popsicles for a cool treat. If you have a lot of hot chocolate, consider making a batch of hot chocolate pudding by thickening it with cornstarch and serving with whipped cream. Hot chocolate can also be used as a base for a chocolate fondue, perfect for dipping fruits, marshmallows, or cookies. For a quick dessert, try drizzling hot chocolate over a slice of cake or a bowl of berries.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
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Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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