My Christmas Eve Hot Cocoa
Every year, Christmas Eve feels like a rush — last-minute wrapping, kids too excited to sleep, a kitchen full of delicious chaos.
I used to wind down with a mug of store-bought cocoa mix — instant comfort, sure, but full of sugar and dairy that left me wired and bloated.
One winter, I decided to make my own — not just a healthier cocoa, but one that actually helped me relax.
The secret? A spoonful of collagen for balance and a pinch of reishi or cinnamon to calm the nervous system. Now, my Christmas Eve ritual feels luxurious instead of guilty — creamy, rich, grounding, and completely dairy-free.
🧠✨ The Science Behind It
🍫 Cacao feels comforting and indulgent.
🥥 Plant milk + collagen add creaminess and staying power.
🌿 Cinnamon brings cozy, calming warmth.
🧫 Emkoji (EpiCor®) layers in gentle, food-based support.
🍄 Reishi (optional) has a long history in calming rituals.
✨ The real magic: a warm mug and a quiet pause before the big day. 🎄☕
🌿 3 Simple Ways to Elevate the Hot Cocoa Cup
Add a swirl of coconut cream
It makes the cocoa feel café-level fancy with zero extra effort.Sprinkle cinnamon or cacao on top
Tiny detail, big cozy payoff — your nose notices before your brain does.Drink it somewhere intentional
By the tree, under twinkle lights, or in bed with the lights low.
The setting counts as an ingredient.
My Christmas Eve Hot Cocoa
❤️ Why You’ll Love It
✅ Cozy and grounding — made for slow Christmas Eve moments
🌿 Dairy-free with refined sugar as a choice, not a rule
🍫 Deep chocolate flavor without the heavy feeling
⏱️ Ready in 5 minutes (because December doesn’t wait)
💬 Flora says: “It’s not just cocoa — it’s a pause in a mug.”
❓ Common Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. You can mix everything except the milk and reheat gently when you’re ready. Fresh is coziest, but December allows shortcuts.
Do I have to use collagen, reishi, or emkoji?
Nope. This recipe works beautifully without any add-ins. They’re optional layers — not requirements.
Is this kid-friendly?
Absolutely. Just skip the optional add-ins and keep it simple. Kids usually love the chocolatey flavor.
Can I use regular milk instead of plant milk?
Of course. Use what works for your body and your kitchen. Progress > perfection.
🌞Your Turn
What’s your holiday swap that made everything better?
Maybe it’s coconut milk in your cocoa… sourdough in your stuffing… or ditching sugar for something real and rich.
Let’s rewrite tradition—one cozy bite at a time.
Read Next →Spiced Apple Nachos
A whole-food holiday favorite that feels indulgent without the crash.
Warm cinnamon apples, savory crunch, and just enough sweetness to make it feel special — all real ingredients, no fillers, no fuss.
Disclaimer:
This story shares personal experience — not medical advice. Always do what works best for you.
Author: Kathy from Unprocessed Living
