Bûche de Noël
Credit photo: Carla Beauvais

What kind of Christmas traditions do you have with your family? 

Perhaps you decorate the tree together, go out caroling around your neighbourhood, or see a fantastic show of lights. There’s little doubt that you will join together around the table for a glorious Christmas feast as one of your traditions too.

 

So many families count down the days of the year just to get to this moment. To sit together and enjoy a glorious meal in the spirit of such a merry holiday is nothing short of joyous.

 

 

However, having something extra special for dessert is the perfect way to cap off a fine meal like this. Instead of running yourself ragged to make a table full of delights, let Haitian Chocolatier Ralph Leroy of Makaya Chocolat create his epic Bûche de Noël Xmas log to serve as your centrepiece.

 

 

With exquisite detail, Ralph carves these rich and immaculate delights from edible ingredients to look like real logs. The intricacy involved is unparalleled, making for a fantastic gift for someone special or your grand finale for Christmas dinner.

What’s most fascinating of all is that Ralph doesn’t create the same log design twice. Every single one he makes is completely one of a kind. And they are crafted in delightful flavours too. Choose chocolate, cappuccino, hazelnut, orange, passion fruit, strawberry, rum, peanuts, and more. He simply runs with his years of experience and the inspiration he feels in the moment to craft these beautifully delicious logs.

 

 While you might be afraid to cut it and ruin his hard work, Ralph encourages you to enjoy, for he’ll keep making these lovely edible carved desserts. Take a photo before you dig in and enjoy this special time with the most treasured people. Love the moment as these flavors dance upon your palate and build themselves into your memories.

 

Bûche de Noël

Bûche de Noël

  

 

 

 

Ralph Leroy at work

 

 

Each year, Makaya Chocolat in Haiti presents an “Xmas log exhibition”. Every edible dessert log is presented on display. It’s something people look forward to every year to see what creations Ralph will dream up next. From the masterful designs themselves to the stunning flavor profiles within, few things can top having a “Bûche de Noël” this year.

 

 

Unless of course, you start a tradition of serving Ralph’s “Bûche de Noël” every year!

The post Create a New Christmas Tradition with the Xmas Log appeared first on Makaya Chocolate.

Makaya 100% hot chocolate.
Credit Photo: Carla Beauvais

It was cold outside, the kind of cold that penetrated deep through layers of clothing, stinging with insistent attention. Shuffling through the snow and ice, it seems like an eternity to make it home.

Thoughts of the warm, heated air melting the frigid winter weather away dance in your head as you attempt to move faster. The ice and snow have other plans, causing you to slip and slide all along.

Even though it will feel wonderful to get inside where it’s warm, peel off those layers and stand in front of that roaring fireplace, there’s something else missing to make things complete.

Nothing does it quite like hot chocolate.

In fact, when the whole family finally gets home, the only way to beat the blustery weather and warm up from within is with a mug of rich hot chocolate. It really brings everyone closer together.

But before you try to bring everyone inner warmth in a chocolatey way, just remember that the powdered stuff isn’t quite as good. Hot chocolate should be made with real chocolate.

Melting that chocolate in milk gently warms it up, allowing it to integrate into a creamy, dreamy beverage that everyone can enjoy. The sweet fragrance of chocolate permeates the air, and suddenly, your bad day is merely a memory.

Instead, you’ll be creating memories of happier times. As you sip your hot chocolate with your family, perhaps remember how magical it felt to you as a child. Now your own children can feel the same.

100% Cocoa by “Makaya Chocolat” makes it even easier to bring the warmth, delight, and magic of hot chocolate into your home. Soothe yourself on those chilly nights gathered together around the fire. Dare to sit around your fire pit and marvel at the stars, then come back inside to make another cup.

It couldn’t be easier to bring joy, or to make a lifetime of happy memories that will all come back with every sip of real hot chocolate made from 20g half balls to make for easy preparation. Now you’ll know the secret of bringing the ones you love closer together.

Makaya Chocolat – 100% cocoa. Excellent for Hot chocolate, desert and/or cooking

The post How Hot Chocolate Brings Everyone Together appeared first on Makaya Chocolate.

Follow the instructions with the ingredients and you are gooood to goooo!

Cheers and remember to enjoy it with a big smile.

Makaya Chocolat 100% Cocoa.
Credit Photo: Kenly Metellus

~Recipe~

40 g of Makaya dark chocolate 100% (2 semi balls)
1 cup of water
1 cup of milk (any of your choice)
3 large spoonful of sugar
Cinnamon, star anise
1 pinch of salt
1 large spoonful of vanilla

~Instructions~

Boil the water with cinnamon, star anise and a pinch of salt.
Add 2 semi balls of chocolate and let it melt while stirring with a spoon.
Add the milk, reduce to a skim consistency.
Finally, put the vanilla spoon, turn off the heat and serve it with a
big smile.

The post How to make Makaya “Hot Chocolate” appeared first on Makaya Chocolate.

Makaya Chocolat – 100% cocoa. Excellent for Hot chocolate, desert and/or cooking.
Credit photo: Carla Beauvais

Hot chocolate is one of the most popular drinks in the world, especially during the cold winter months when we need something warm to help heat us from the inside out. But, it’s not just a favorite around Christmas time, since many people enjoy hot chocolate throughout the rest of the year. In fact, you might even find yourself craving this delicious drink on a regular basis!

What is hot Chocolat?

Hot chocolate, sometimes referred to as hot cocoa or drinking chocolate, is a heated beverage that typically includes whipped cream or marshmallows, shaved or melted chocolate, cocoa powder, heated milk, or both. Drinking chocolate is the name for hot chocolate produced with melted chocolate and has a thicker consistency and less sweetness.

The Different Types of Hot Chocolate

Nothing is more comforting than a warm mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter day. But there’s more to this delicious treat than just a simple cup of cocoa. Hot chocolate comes in many different varieties and flavours, each one offering its own unique twist on the classic winter beverage. Here are a few different types of hot chocolate for you to try.

Makaya Chocolat – 100% cocoa. Excellent for Hot chocolate, desert and/or cooking

• Chocolate & Hazelnut: Made with dark chocolate and hazelnut paste, this hot chocolate has a rich flavour that will keep you feeling cozy all through the night.

• Caramelized White Chocolate: Made with white chocolates that have been caramelized into a thick sauce and served as an overindulgent dessert, this is not your average hot cocoa.

• Spicy Aztec: Ground cinnamon combined with spicy cayenne pepper make up this exotic blend of ingredients, giving it that extra kick that’s perfect for those who like it spicy.

• Cinnamon Spice: A holiday favorite! Sweetened condensed milk mixed with cinnamon makes up this easy recipe that anyone can enjoy all year round. – Homemade Chai Tea: Chai tea lovers rejoice! Now you can get that signature drink from the comfort of your home by simply mixing some black tea, ginger root, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, and water together. With so many different types of hot chocolate to choose from, no winter day should be spent without one!

In conclusion, hot chocolate is an amazing treat that has been enjoyed for centuries. It’s an indulgent treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and dietary preferences. From basic recipes to more creative concoctions, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a cup of hot cocoa. Whether you are looking for something warm and comforting or something to add a little extra sweetness to your day, a cup of hot chocolate is sure to hit the spot. So why not take some time out of your day to cozy up with a mug of your favorite hot cocoa recipe? And if it doesn’t have any ingredients in it that you’re allergic to, then don’t forget to use milk!

The post Hot chocolate appeared first on Makaya Chocolate.

Cocoa tea, also known as cacao tea, is an organic and gluten-free tea. You can take cocoa tea regularly, just like your morning cup of coffee.

If you haven’t experienced the delight of cocoa tea yet, you can try our Makaya cocoa tea. The natural aroma of hot cocoa in a cup can help you to have a fresh start to your day.

Cocoa tea is great for your health!

Cocoa tea is not only a refreshing drink, but it also has many health benefits for you. It can regulate your metabolism and helps you with digestion. It is also known as a great anti-stress and anti-fatigue drink to reduce tiredness and fatigue.

Were you expecting a cup of tea to do all these wonders for you? You might be surprised to know that our list is not ending here.

I am not exaggerating when I am saying this tea is a miracle in itself. Cocoa tea is enriched with vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and vitamin E.

Mineral and vitamins found in cocoa tea and their health benefits

As mentioned earlier, cocoa tea has a significant amount of minerals and vitamins. Some of these elements are iron, zinc, magnesium, vitamin C, and vitamin E.

The minerals in cocoa tea include zinc, iron, and magnesium. These minerals are known to help with digestion and better functioning of the immune system. Cocoa tea can boost your metabolism and might help deal with anxiety and migraine.

Vitamin C and vitamin E can also be found in cocoa tea. These vitamins are an essential part of the human diet. They have antioxidants that might prevent skin damage, moisturize the skin, and keep it fresh and healthy.

You should not be surprised now to know that this tea is also caffeine-free. You can drink cocoa tea in the afternoon or evening just like a cup of your favorite hot chocolate without worrying about night-less nights.

Make your “Makaya Cocoa Tea”

INGREDIENTS

• 5 grams of cocoa or 1 bag
• 1 cup of hot water

INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE

• Add 1 cocoa tea bag or 5 grams of cocoa tea to the teapot.
• Add hot water and let it infuse for 1 to 3 minutes.

This simple and easy recipe makes you a hot cup of cocoa tea that you can share with your loved ones and enjoy with a big smile. 

The post Cocoa Tea appeared first on Makaya Chocolate.

Hot chocolate Topped Cream is a delicious drink for nice evenings. This type is creamy, delicious, and wonderfully easy to make. All you need is an organic dark chocolate powder, milk, sugar, and vanilla. For the toppings include regular or mini marshmallows or a big spoonful of marshmallow creme. You can also top it off with freshly whipped cream or whipped topping.
For your hot chocolate drink, there are many ways you can make it, you can add some spice, or spike it with mint and chocolate liqueurs.

A happy Chocolate Drink

Ingredients

• 2 ounces (2 squares) unsweetened chocolate
• 1/3 cup sugar (white granulated)
• 4 cups milk (whole)
• 1 pinch salt
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Garnish: marshmallow creme or fluff, or whipped cream

How to make it

1. Gather the ingredients.
2. In a 2-quart saucepan, place the chocolate, sugar, milk, and salt. Over medium-low heat, stir until the chocolate melts and the mixture is well blended.
3. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Pour the hot chocolate into mugs and top with a spoonful of marshmallow creme or whipped cream, if desired.
5. Serve and enjoy!

Tip

• Keep your hot chocolate warm longer by serving it in preheated mugs. Either fill each cup with hot water while you’re making the drink or heat water-filled cups in the microwave for 10 seconds. Dump out the water before pouring the hot chocolate.
• Adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. For instance, 1/4 cup is good if you prefer a drink that’s less sweet.
• If you only have semi-sweet or sweetened chocolate available, you may not need to add any sugar. Melt the chocolate and milk mixture first, taste it, then decide if it needs a tablespoon or two of sugar.

Some Variations

• Create a richer hot chocolate by replacing 1 to 1 1/2 cups of the whole milk with half-and-half or light cream.
• Transform the drink into a grown-up grasshopper by adding 2 ounces of crème de menthe and 1/2 ounce of crème de cacao.
• Make spiced Mexican hot chocolate with the addition of 3/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and a dash of ancho chili powder. Add a cinnamon stick to each cup and top with a dollop of whipped cream.
• For cinnamon hot chocolate, stir in 1 scant teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
• Add 2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder to the saucepan along with the chocolate, sugar, milk, and salt to create mocha hot chocolate.

Voilà!

The post Chocolate Passion: Chocolate Drink Topped Cream appeared first on Makaya Chocolate.

5 Health Benefits of Dark Chocolate

A significant number of dark chocolate’s astounding advantages originate from its intense cancer prevention agent mixes epicatechin, catechin, and procyanidins, alongside flavonoids and polyphenols. These antioxidants are liable for putting a stop to DNA harm, decreasing inflammation, directing glucose levels, decreasing aging, and that’s only the tip of the iceberg.

1. Improves Heart Health

A frequently ignored, however genuine, hazard factor for coronary illness is pressure. Blunting the impacts of weight on the body is one more way dark chocolate can secure heart wellbeing, which is uplifting news in any event, for individuals with a heart condition. 

 Eating dark chocolate helped individuals adapt to stress. Analysts estimated the pressure hormones cortisol and epinephrine and afterward moved individuals to do things like making sense of a troublesome math issue in their minds. The individuals who ate dark chocolate revealed feeling less pressure, and surely had lower levels of pressure hormones coursing in their blood following the pressure test.

2. Fights Aging

As we referenced before, dark chocolate is stacked with antioxidants aggravates that help battle the DNA harm that causes maturing manifestations like wrinkles, turning gray hair, and malady. Research shows that only a cup of cacao contains more phenolic cancer prevention agents than most nourishments and a larger number of antioxidants than numerous Americans consume on average.

Research likewise shows that the polyphenols and flavonoids in dark chocolate can help shield your skin from UV harm, which is a tremendous factor in preventing skin maturing.

3. Reduces stress

A new study shows that eating dark chocolate may lower levels of stress hormones in people feeling stressed out.

Researchers found that eating the equivalent of one average-sized dark chocolate candy bar (1.4 ounces) each day for two weeks reduced levels of the stress hormone cortisol as well as the “fight-or-flight” hormones known as catecholamines in highly stressed people.

The findings add to a growing number of recently discovered potential health benefits of dark chocolate. For example, cocoa is rich in a class of antioxidants called flavonoids, which have been linked to several health benefits.

Researchers are also investigating other compounds in dark chocolate that may offer other health benefits, such as improved insulin sensitivity, reduced blood pressure, and improved mood.

4. Improves Brain Function

Dark chocolate has been read for its capacity to help psychological capacity by improving the cerebral bloodstream, thanks to some degree to its high flavanol content. One examination indicated that the admission of flavonoid-rich nourishments, including chocolate, wine, and tea, brings about improved intellectual execution, particularly in older members.

Another investigation out of Italy additionally found that the flavanols in chocolate could forestall and even invert age-related memory decrease.

5. Anti-Diabetic Effects

Research has indicated that dark chocolate improves glucose balance, insulin affectability and aggravation markers – all side effects that add to the advancement of diabetes. In one specific examination, researchers found these advantages happened just when members ate dark chocolate; the individuals who expended white chocolate got no advantages. 

Strangely, an investigation in Japan found that the danger of creating diabetes was diminished 35 percent among men who devoured “chocolate nibble pieces” once every week or more versus the individuals who never or never ate chocolate.

The post Dark Chocolate: A Superfood with Powerful Benefits appeared first on Makaya Chocolate.