How to Make Mushroom Hot Chocolate

October 30, 2024 | by Silvana Jakupovic, ND

Mushroom hot chocolate is a unique and innovative twist on the classic hot chocolate beverage. This delicious drink combines the rich and indulgent flavours of cacao powder with the health-boosting properties of functional mushrooms. From Lion's Mane to Reishi, these functional mushrooms are known for their numerous health benefits, including immune support, cognitive enhancement, and stress relief.

Hot chocolate has long been a beloved comfort drink, especially during the colder months. But by adding mushroom powder to the mix, you can take your hot chocolate game to a new level. Not only will you be sipping on a delicious and satisfying beverage, but you'll also be nourishing your body with the goodness of functional mushrooms.

The Magic of Mushroom Powder

At the heart of mushroom hot chocolate is mushroom powder, a concentrated form of functional mushrooms. These functional mushrooms, also known as adaptogens, have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their various health benefits. 

The magic of mushroom powder lies in its ability to support overall wellness. Each type of functional mushroom offers its own unique set of benefits. For example, Lion's Mane is known for its potential to enhance cognitive function and focus, while Reishi is prized for its relaxation and immune support properties. Chaga, another popular healthy mushroom, is packed with antioxidants that can help protect against free radicals and support overall well-being.

Selecting Your Mushroom Blend

When creating the right mushroom blend is key when creating your hot chocolate. Eversio Wellness carries three mushroom extract blends: the 3M (Awaken) Blend, the 4M (Balance) Blend, and the 6M (Rejuvenate) Blend.  

Lion’s Mane to Support Focus and Clarity

Lion's mane is popular for those looking to enhance cognitive health, focus, and clarity. This mushroom is known for its potential to support brain function and promote mental well-being.

Research suggests that Lion's Mane may stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that plays a crucial role in nerve cell growth, survival, and maintenance [1]. By increasing NGF levels, Lion's Mane may help protect and repair the brain, potentially improving cognitive function.

Adding Lion's Mane to your mushroom hot chocolate can provide a natural boost for your brain, helping you stay focused and sharp throughout the day. All three Eversio Wellness mushroom extract blends contain Lion’s Mane in varying quantities. 

Reishi for Relaxation and Immune Support

Reishi mushroom is often called the "mushroom of immortality" and is prized for its relaxation and immune-support properties [2]. 

One of the key benefits of Reishi mushroom is its potential to promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety [3]. It contains compounds that help calm the mind and support restful sleep [4]. Reishi also has immune-modulating properties, which can help support a healthy immune system [2].

Reishi is present in the 4 Mushroom Blend (The Balance Blend) alongside Lion’s Mane, Shiitake, and Maitake. 

Chaga for Antioxidant Power

Chaga mushroom is a powerful antioxidant, often called the "king of mushrooms." One of its critical advantages is its high antioxidant content [5]. Antioxidants protect the body against free radicals, which can cause cellular damage and lead to various health issues. By consuming foods rich in antioxidants, such as chaga mushrooms, you can help support your body's natural defence system.

Chaga is present in the Rejuvenate Blend alongside other ergothioneine- and antioxidant-rich mushrooms: Oyster, Lion’s Mane, Tremella, Shiitake, and Maitake.

Crafting Your Mushroom Hot Chocolate

Crafting your own mushroom hot chocolate is a simple and enjoyable process. All you need are a few key ingredients and a little bit of time.

To start, gather your favourite mushroom blend, cacao powder, and any additional flavourings or sweeteners you prefer. Common options include almond milk, maple syrup, coconut sugar, and hot water.

By combining these ingredients in the right proportions and following a step-by-step guide, you can create a delicious and nourishing cup of mushroom hot chocolate that suits your taste preferences. So, let's dive into the ingredients list and the process of making your perfect cup of mushroom hot chocolate.

Ingredients List: What You’ll Need

You'll need a few key ingredients to make your mushroom hot chocolate:

• Almond milk (or any other plant-based milk of your choice)
• Cacao powder
• Eversio Wellness Mushroom Extract Blend 
• Sweeteners (such as maple syrup, coconut sugar, or any other natural sweetener)

These ingredients form the base of your mushroom hot chocolate and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of milk, sweeteners, and mushroom blends to find the combination you enjoy the most.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Perfect Cup

Making the perfect cup of mushroom hot chocolate is easier than you might think. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a velvety, smooth and indulgent beverage:

1. Heat your choice of milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until it is hot but not boiling.
2. Combine cacao powder, mushroom powder, and any desired sweeteners in a separate bowl. Whisk the dry ingredients together until they are well incorporated.
3. Slowly pour the hot milk into the bowl with the dry ingredients, whisking continuously to create a smooth and frothy mixture.
4. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can blend the mixture in a blender or use a handheld frother to achieve a frothy consistency.
5. Pour the mushroom hot chocolate into your favourite mug and enjoy!

This step-by-step guide will help you create a delicious and satisfying cup of mushroom hot chocolate that rivals your morning coffee. Whisk, froth, and enjoy the comforting flavours of this nourishing beverage.

Customizing Your Drink: Tips and Tricks

Customizing your mushroom hot chocolate can be a fun and creative process. Here are a few tips and tricks to help you personalize your drink:

• Experiment with different types of plant-based milk, such as coconut milk or oat milk, to create different flavour profiles.
• Add a cinnamon stick or a sprinkle of cinnamon powder to your hot chocolate for a warm and comforting spice.
• Enhance the flavour with a dash of vanilla extract or vanilla bean powder.
• Boost the adaptogenic properties of your hot chocolate by adding adaptogen powders like ashwagandha or maca.
• Top your drink with a dollop of coconut cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra indulgent touch.

Summertime Sipping: Iced Mushroom Chocolate

When the temperatures rise, there's nothing quite as satisfying as a refreshing iced drink. By adding ice and blending it with coconut cream, you can transform your mushroom hot chocolate into an iced treat. The result is an iced mushroom chocolate that is perfect for summertime sipping.

Wintertime Warmth: Spiced Mushroom Chocolate

During the winter months, there's nothing quite as comforting as a warm cup of hot chocolate. Add a touch of warmth and spice to your mushroom hot chocolate by incorporating aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. These spices enhance the flavour of the hot chocolate and provide additional health benefits.