A sacred cacao latte is a nourishing and energising drink that combines the rich, earthy flavour of cacao with creamy plant-based milk and aromatic spices. Whether you’re seeking a calming ritual or a gentle energy boost, learning how to make a sacred cacao latte from scratch can elevate your daily routine.
This guide, my latest blog, will walk you through each step, using easy-to-follow instructions and helpful tips for creating the perfect sacred cacao latte.
Step 1: Prepare The Cacao Paste
To begin, you need to prepare the cacao paste, which is the most important ingredient for your sacred cacao latte. Sacred cacao is typically sold in solid blocks or paste form, which will need to be melted before being combined with milk.
How To Melt The Cacao Paste
- Measure the Cacao: Start by cutting off 30-40 grams of sacred cacao paste. This is the ideal amount for one serving. If you prefer a stronger flavour, you can add a little more.
- Melt the Cacao:
- Double Boiler Method: Place the cacao pieces in a heatproof bowl. Position the bowl over a pot of simmering water, making sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir occasionally as the cacao melts.
- Microwave Method: Alternatively, place the cacao paste in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 20-second bursts. Stir between each burst until the paste is fully melted.
Once the cacao paste is melted and smooth, you’re ready to move on to the next step.
Step 2: Heat The Plant-Based Milk
The next step is to warm your plant-based milk. The milk helps to dilute the rich, intense flavour of the cacao, creating a creamy and smooth texture for your latte.
How To Heat The Milk
- Select Your Milk: Choose your preferred plant-based milk. Some popular options include:
- Almond milk for a light and slightly nutty flavour.
- Oat milk is a creamy and naturally sweet option.
- Coconut milk for a tropical twist with a richer consistency.
- Heat the Milk:
- Pour 1 cup of your chosen milk into a saucepan.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the milk from scalding.
- Heat until the milk is warm but not boiling, approximately 70–80°C.
Warming the milk without boiling it ensures that it doesn’t lose its flavour and texture. Once your milk is ready, move on to combining it with the cacao.
Step 3: Combine The Cacao And Milk
Now that the cacao paste is melted and the milk is warmed, it’s time to bring them together to create your sacred cacao latte.
How To Combine The Ingredients
- Add the Milk to the Cacao: Slowly pour the warmed milk into the melted cacao paste. Stir gently to ensure the mixture is evenly combined.
- Mix Thoroughly:
- Use a whisk to blend the two ingredients together. This will help break up any remaining cacao clumps and create a smooth, velvety texture.
- Continue stirring until the cacao and milk are well-integrated and the mixture is fully smooth.
If you prefer a frothy texture, use a milk frother or whisk vigorously to create foam. This step will add an extra layer of creaminess to your latte.
Step 4: Add Sweeteners And Spices
Once the cacao and milk are combined, it’s time to add the finishing touches to flavour your sacred cacao latte.
How To Add Sweeteners And Spices
- Sweeteners: If you like your drink sweeter, you can add a natural sweetener. Some popular options include:
- Raw honey – 1 teaspoon for a mild sweetness.
- Maple syrup – 1 teaspoon for a warm, caramel-like flavour.
- Coconut sugar – for a richer, deeper sweetness.
- Spices: To enhance the flavour of the cacao, add the following:
- Ground cinnamon – 1/4 teaspoon for a subtle, warming spice.
- Vanilla extract – A dash (about 1/4 teaspoon) will balance the flavour and add a soft sweetness.
- Optional: You can also experiment with a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick or maca powder for added energy.
Stir And Taste
- Stir the sweeteners and spices into the cacao mixture thoroughly. Give it a quick taste test and adjust the sweetness or spice level to your preference. If you like your latte sweeter or spicier, add more of the ingredients until it meets your desired flavour.
Step 5: Froth The Milk (Optional)
For a luxurious, creamy texture, frothing the milk adds that extra café-style touch to your sacred cacao latte. While this step is optional, it can elevate the texture and experience of the drink.
How To Froth The Milk
- Milk Frother: If you have a milk frother, simply pour the cacao mixture into it and froth until you achieve the desired foam.
- Manual Whisking: If you don’t have a frother, use a hand whisk to vigorously whisk the milk and cacao mixture. This will create a foamy layer on top of your latte.
Frothing is particularly beneficial if you’re using plant-based milk like oat or coconut, which tend to foam nicely and give the drink a thick, creamy texture.
Step 6: Pour And Serve
Once you’ve added the sweeteners and frothed your milk, it’s time to pour the sacred cacao latte into your favourite mug and serve.
How To Serve
- Pour the Latte: Gently pour the cacao-latte mixture into a mug. If you’ve frothed the milk, the foam should rise to the top, creating a velvety layer.
- Garnish (Optional): Add a sprinkle of ground cinnamon or cocoa powder for an extra touch of flavour and decoration. You can also drizzle some honey on top for added sweetness or a few shards of dark chocolate for a decadent twist.
Once your sacred cacao latte is ready, take a moment to enjoy the aroma and richness before sipping. Savour the warmth, the smooth texture, and the comforting flavours as you unwind with this nourishing drink.
Tips For The Perfect Sacred Cacao Latte
1. Choose High-Quality Cacao Paste
Using high-quality cacao paste will make a noticeable difference in the flavour and texture of your sacred cacao latte. Look for ceremonial-grade or organic cacao paste that is minimally processed, with no added sugars or artificial ingredients.
2. Experiment With Milk Alternatives
There are many types of plant-based milk available, each offering a unique texture and flavour. Experiment with different milk options to find the one that best complements the rich taste of cacao.
3. Adjust Sweetness And Spices To Taste
Everyone’s preference for sweetness and spice is different. Start with a small amount of sweetener and cinnamon, then adjust according to your personal taste. You can also add other spices like nutmeg or ginger if you enjoy experimenting with flavours.
4. Mind The Temperature
When heating your milk, ensure it doesn’t reach a boiling point. Milk that is too hot can lose its flavour and may cause the cacao to become grainy. Keep the milk temperature around 70-80°C for the best results.
Conclusion
Preparing a sacred cacao latte is an enjoyable and simple process that can become a cherished ritual in your daily routine. With the right ingredients, careful preparation, and a little creativity, you can make a delicious, energising, and soothing drink that nourishes both your body and mind.
Whether you’re looking for a moment of calm or a gentle energy boost, this sacred cacao latte will deliver exactly what you need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Regular Cocoa Powder Instead Of Cacao Paste?
It is possible to use cocoa powder instead of cacao paste but keep in mind that the flavour and texture may not be the same. Cacao paste has a richer, smoother consistency and a more complex flavour compared to cocoa powder. If you use cocoa powder, you might need to adjust the amount of sweetener or spice.
How Do I Make A Sacred Cacao Latte Without Sweetener?
If you prefer your sacred cacao latte unsweetened, simply omit the sweetener and enjoy the naturally rich flavour of the cacao. You can also add a little vanilla extract to balance out the bitterness without adding sweetness.
Can I Store Leftover Sacred Cacao Latte?
Sacred cacao lattes are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1-2 days. To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a saucepan, stirring frequently, until it’s warmed through. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after refrigeration.