I haven't been a huge fan of a hot chocolate drink before. I guess that's because anywhere I'd try it, it was too sweet for my liking. I prefer my coffee and tea without sugar, you see. Also, my stomach is lactose intolerant, so most of the time I just simply avoid the 'Hot Chocolate' option on the menu in the coffee bar. However, every Autumn I crave that delicious-looking-smelling drink, maybe that's because I am also a huge fan of the chocolate.

This year I've attempted to make my own, and OMG it's so delicious, I even take it out with me on my forest walks in the thermos and my new enamel mug (did you see the story I shared on my Instagram?). Well, what can I say- I've even given it a short photo session, it was THAT GOOD.

Here is the recipe (for one cup):

• 1tsp cocoa powder

• 1 cup lactose-free/ coconut/ almond milk

• 1tsp caramel syrup

• 1stp maple syrup

• 1tsp vanilla extract

• 1tsp grounded cinnamon

Pour some milk in a small saucepan on a medium-high heat. In the meantime, put the cocoa powder in the cup and add a little bit of a cold milk, mix it until it will become a paste. Add vanilla,  caramel and maple syrup, the cinnamon and mix it well. Add hot milk to all the ingredients in the cup, serve with the marshmallow if desired.

I like this method because the hot chocolate is not sweet, but at the same time, it's got a caramel-vanilla taste to it. Try it for yourself and let me know in comments what you think!

I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

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