When the heat of summer sets in, a refreshing and decadent drink can be a perfect companion to beat the rising temperatures. Imagine sipping on a creamy and rich iced cacao drink that not only satisfies your chocolate cravings but also leaves you feeling energised (due to cacao's gentle stimulating effects). Alas, we bring you a delightful recipe that combines the goodness of pure cacao, creamy coconut milk, and a touch of natural sweetness. Get ready to tantalise your taste buds and invigorate your senses with this easy-to-make iced cacao drink.

Ingredients:

• 20g nibbed pure cacao
• 1/4 cup hot water (not boiling)
• 3/4 cup cold coconut milk
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ceylon cinnamon
• 1 cap full of vanilla extract (not essence)
• 6-8 cubes of ice

Method:

1. Prepare the Cacao Base:

Begin by roughly chopping 20g of pure cacao and place it in a blender beaker or a mixing bowl. Pour 1/4 cup of hot water (not boiling) over the cacao. Allow it to sit for a moment, giving it a gentle stir to help the cacao melt.

2. Add Creaminess:

Next, add 3/4 cup of cold coconut milk to the cacao mixture. Coconut milk lends a velvety texture and a hint of natural sweetness to the drink. It also complements the earthy notes of cacao beautifully.

3. Sweeten the Blend:

To enhance the sweetness, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup to the mixture. Feel free to adjust the amount according to your personal preference. Maple syrup adds a delightful touch of natural sweetness and complements the rich flavors of cacao.

4. Infuse Warmth with Cinnamon:

Sprinkle in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, which adds a warm and comforting element to the drink. Cinnamon also offers potential health benefits, such as regulating blood sugar levels and boosting metabolism.

Ceylon cinnamon, also known as "true cinnamon," is considered healthier compared to other varieties of cinnamon, such as Cassia cinnamon. It also tastes a lot nicer (in our opinion!).

5. Enhance with Vanilla:

For a touch of fragrant aroma and a hint of sweetness, add 1 cap full of vanilla extract (we love the Nielsen Massey brand). Be sure to use pure vanilla extract rather than essence to capture the authentic flavours. Essence tends to have quite a synthetic, fake taste. 

6. Blend until Smooth:

Now, it's time to blend all the ingredients together. Add 3 ice cubes to the blender beaker and secure the lid tightly. Blend on high speed until the mixture becomes smooth and frothy. This should take about 20 seconds, depending on your blender's power.

7. Chill and Serve:

Fill a glass with the remaining 3-5 ice cubes, depending on your preference. Pour the blended cacao mixture over the ice, allowing it to cool down and create a refreshing sensation. Feel free to garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon, if desired.

8. Savour the Delight:

Grab a straw, take a sip, and let the cool bliss of the iced cacao drink wash over you. Relish the velvety texture, the rich chocolaty taste, and the subtle hints of warmth and sweetness. Allow this delightful concoction to awaken your senses and provide a moment of indulgence in the midst of the summer heat.

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