Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (150g) Fresh Blackberries, rinsed
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) Water
  • 1 tablespoon (12g) Granulated Sugar (optional)
  • 2 cups (475ml) Whole Milk (or dairy-free alternative)
  • 4 ounces (115g) Dark Chocolate, finely chopped (at least 70% cacao)
  • 1/4 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon Orange Zest, finely grated
  • Pinch of Sea Salt
  • Optional: 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream, for topping
  • Optional: Extra fresh blackberries, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Combine blackberries, water, and sugar (if using) in a small saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries soften and release their juices (about 5-7 minutes).
  2. Transfer the blackberry mixture to a blender (or use an immersion blender directly in the saucepan). Blend until smooth. Strain the puree through a fine-mesh sieve to remove the seeds for a smoother texture (optional but recommended).
  3. In the same saucepan (rinsed out), heat the milk over medium heat, being careful not to boil.
  4. Once the milk is warm, remove the saucepan from the heat. Add the chopped dark chocolate, cinnamon, orange zest, and salt. Let it sit for a minute to soften the chocolate.
  5. Whisk the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.
  6. Stir in the blackberry puree. Return the saucepan to low heat and gently warm the hot chocolate, stirring frequently, until heated through.
  7. Pour into mugs. Top with whipped cream and fresh blackberries, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy this Blackberry Bliss Hot Chocolate!