Warm Up With 4 Organic Hot Chocolate Treats

By: StacyAtZeel

While some look forward to November 24th for the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and the smell of slow-cooked turkey that permeates the house, to me, Thanksgiving has always marked the first day of the holiday season. Because such an occasion warrants celebration, for as far back as I can remember I've reserved Thanksgiving morning for my first soul-warming mug of hot chocolate.

Help preserve this rich seasonal tradition by joining me this year (in spirit, of course) for a delicious mug of your own. Swiss Miss mix will always be welcomed in my house (especially when overflowing with marshmallows), but for those who prefer a more refined version, here are four organic brands that get the Zeel seal of approval.

Green & Blacks Organic Hot Chocolate

Dark chocolate addicts love Green & Blacks' organic hot chocolate, made from dark cocoa beans, raw cane sugar, fat-reduced cocoa powder, cocoa butter, soy lecithin and vanilla extract. To make your own, add four teaspoons to a mug filled with warm skim or low-fat milk for a tasty, full-bodied elixir. Cozy up on the couch and enjoy.

Dagoba Xocolatl

A piquant version of the original cocoa blend, Dagoba's Xocolatl features a combination of rich dark chocolate, cinnamon and chilies. While I can't vouch for the slimming capabilities of this (or any other) chocolaty drink, spices like chilies are said to pack a metabolism-boosting punch. Better yet, a serving of Xocolatl has eight percent of your daily intake of dietary fiber, a digestion superstar.

Allison's Gourmet Hot Chocolate

A gourmet drink dubbed "comfort in a cup," Allison's is as versatile as it is satisfying. For those who don't care for hot chocolate, this vegan drinking powder can also be used in a chocolate shake or a deliciously caffeinated cup of café mocha. Allison's fair-trade products are free of all animal products, making her brand a favorite among vegan celebrities like Alicia Silverstone.

Ah!Laska Organic Cocoa

As evaluated by this stay-at-home mom, Ah!Laska Organic Cocoa is the best "everyday" hot chocolate. "It has the sweetness that the kids like, but not too sweet that it turns off the grown-ups," she wrote after performing a taste test. Ah!Laska's "chocolatey chocolate" mix is fat-free and contains high quality organic milk powder and evaporated cane juice. Vegans can try the non-dairy version.

So many brands, so little time. Did we miss out on your favorite hot chocolate? (Or, do you love one of these?) We want to know!