Hurray! Science has confirmed that drinking anti-oxidant-packed hot cocoa is even better for us than green tea! Most packaged cocoa mixes aren’t so healthy, though—so try this better-for-you simple hot cocoa recipe and warm yourself all the way down to your toes.

INGREDIENTS

2 cups milk (you can substitute lowfat, skim, soy, or rice milk, if you wish
2 heaping tablespoons organic fair trade pure dark-chocolate cocoa powder, more or less to taste
Pure maple syrup, to taste (some of us prefer a sweeter cocoa)

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan and add cocoa powder, whisking to combine.

2. Add maple syrup to taste, stir again, pour into a large mug, and serve hot.

Makes 1 serving.