Goodnight Cacao Bedtime Drink
I’ve been having trouble sleeping again, which is always an issue for me around time changes and seems to continue for a couple weeks afterwards. Combined with everything else that’s been going on in the last two weeks and I’m not surprised that sleep has been out of reach for me. I am, however, one of those people who is a total jerk when I’m not sleeping well so I’ve got a whole routine of things to get my body back on track. Usually that involves a nice cup of Sleepy Time tea but lately it’s not hitting the spot.
This incredible recipe is more than just a delicious bedtime drink—it’s a warm, chocolatey embrace for your body and soul, crafted to ease tension and quiet the mind. Combining cacao’s magnesium-rich, grounding properties with calming herbs like chamomile, lavender, and rose, this soothing blend taps into nature’s gifts to help us unwind and prepare for restful sleep. The cacao adds a comforting richness, while gentle spices like cinnamon and nutmeg warm the spirit, making this a truly holistic way to nourish yourself as part of your evening wind-down. Perfect for winter nights or anytime you need a little extra peace, this cozy elixir is a nightly ritual for grounding, relaxation, and self-love.
Ingredients:
1 cup milk of your choice (almond, oat, coconut, or dairy)
1 tablespoon raw cacao powder (rich, grounding, and antioxidant-packed)
1/2 teaspoon dried chamomile flowers (calms the nervous system)
1/2 teaspoon dried lavender flowers (relaxes and soothes)
1/2 teaspoon dried rose petals (opens the heart, adds a subtle floral note)
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (warming and grounding)
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (supports relaxation and sleep)
1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional, to taste)
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (adds depth and warmth)
Instructions:
Warm the Milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat over low to medium heat, being careful not to let it boil.
Whisk in Cacao and Spices: Add the cacao powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the milk, whisking until well combined and smooth.
Infuse with Herbs: Add the chamomile, lavender, and rose petals. Stir gently and let the milk and herbs simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the herbs to release their calming properties into the milk.
Strain and Sweeten: Remove the saucepan from heat. Strain the milk through a fine mesh strainer to remove the herbs. Add honey or maple syrup and vanilla extract, stirring to combine.
Serve Warm: Pour the cacao-infused Goodnight Goddess Milk into your favorite mug. Enjoy the warm, rich flavor as you wind down for the evening.
Optional Add-Ins:
Ashwagandha powder (1/4 teaspoon): A gentle adaptogen that can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
A pinch of sea salt: A tiny pinch helps bring out the sweetness of the cacao and spices.
1 teaspoon coconut oil or ghee: Adds creaminess and can help support relaxation as a source of healthy fat.
I hope this lovely drink helps you find peace and rest no matter what you’re going through in your day-to-day 🌙✨.
