Cocoa Tea with a (Very Un-French) French Twist

This cozy little ritual started as a way to warm my daughters into the world of ceremonial cocoa. Like many West Indians, I grew up with cocoa tea—rich, bitter, earthy, grounding. But kids? They prefer sweet and creamy.

So, inspired by my sister (who came back from France obsessed with their thick chocolat chaud), I started blending the best of both: Trini soul and French indulgence.

And now, I’ve added a wellness twist that the French would probably roll their eyes at—collagen. Yes, really. That invisible sprinkle of skin-glow, gut-love, joint-care goodness. Because why not make your cup of joy do a little more?

What You’ll Need (1 serving):

• 5-10ceremonial-grade cocoa (adjust to taste)
• ½-1cups milk (or water + ¼ cream)
• 10g collagen powder
• ~10g sugar (start low, adjust to your sweet spot)
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• Vanilla extract or orange zest (for whipping into the cream)

How to Make It:

Simmer your base.
In a saucepan, combine milk, cocoa, sugar, and collagen.
Heat on low and whisk continuously until everything dissolves and the texture turns velvety and frothy. (Don’t boil—it’s not soup. Gentle heat is key.)

Whip the cream.
While your cocoa simmers, whip the heavy cream with a splash of vanilla or orange zest. You want soft peaks, not stiff. Think cloud-like.

Assemble.
Pour your hot cocoa into your favourite mug.
Top with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Optional: sprinkle cinnamon, cacao nibs, or dark chocolate shavings for extra magic.

Make it yours:

Sub full-fat milk with oat, almond, or coconut or more cream!

Use store-bought whipped cream for speed.

Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a spiced kick.

Skip the sugar entirely, or replace it with maple or coconut sugar.

Want a protein boost? Add another scoop of collagen.

Mindful Eating Notes:

This cup isn’t just about warmth—it’s about intention.

Ceremonial Cocoa: Packed with antioxidants and theobromine (a gentle, mood-lifting stimulant), plus natural cocoa butter for healthy fats.

Collagen: Supports skin elasticity, joint health, gut lining, and hair growth. A quiet overachiever who blends in seamlessly.

Milk/Cream: Proteins and fats help keep you fuller longer and balance the sugar, preventing a quick crash.

Sugar: Joy lives here, too. Keep it mindful, not militant. Use what you need. Skip what you don’t.

Final Thought:

This isn’t the kind of hot chocolate you’ll find in a Parisian café—but that’s the point. It’s better. It’s Trini, it’s nurturing, and it’s built for your wellness.

Let it remind you that your rituals can evolve. That health and heritage can share space. That even a humble mug of cocoa can become a whole moment.