There is something deeply comforting about a mug of spiced hot chocolate on a cool evening - and this recipe takes that comfort to a whole new level. By combining rich dark chocolate with the warming spices of masala chai and finishing it with a generous handful of Almond Crunch Masala Chai, you get a drink that is indulgent yet made with wholesome, clean ingredients. This is hot chocolate reimagined the Indian way.

What You Need

• 2 cups whole milk (or oat milk)
• 50g dark chocolate (70% cocoa), roughly chopped
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon jaggery powder (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• A pinch of black pepper
• A pinch of nutmeg
• 3 to 4 tablespoons The Recipe Tailor Almond Crunch Masala Chai, for topping
• Whipped cream or frothed milk, optional

How to Make It

1. Pour the milk into a small saucepan and set over medium heat. Warm until it just begins to steam - do not boil.
2. Add the chopped dark chocolate and cocoa powder. Whisk continuously until the chocolate melts completely and the mixture is smooth.
3. Stir in the jaggery powder, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, black pepper, and nutmeg. Keep whisking over low heat for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and fully combined.
4. Taste and adjust sweetness with a little more jaggery if needed.
5. Pour into two mugs. Top with whipped cream or frothed milk if using.
6. Finish with a generous sprinkle of Almond Crunch Masala Chai for crunch, texture, and that signature chai flavour.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy while hot.

Tips and Variations

• Make it richer: Swap half the milk for full-fat coconut milk for a creamier, dairy-free version with a subtle tropical note.
• Add a chai kick: Steep 1 teaspoon of loose leaf masala chai in the warm milk for 5 minutes before adding the chocolate, then strain and proceed.
• Serve it cold: Let the spiced hot chocolate cool, then pour over ice and top with Almond Crunch Masala Chai for a chilled version.
• Kid-friendly: Reduce the black pepper and use milk chocolate instead of dark for a milder, sweeter mug.
• The Almond Crunch Masala Chai topping is not just decoration - it adds a satisfying crunch with every sip and reinforces the warm spice notes already in the drink. Do not skip it.