Valentine’s Day is a day for lovers and some people like to get a little help in that department by making sure they have a few natural aphrodisiacs on hand. No, I am not talking about the little blue pill because there is nothing natural about that.

First, what exactly is an aphrodisiac?

According to MerriamWebster.com, “An agent (as a food or drug) that arouses or is held to arouse sexual desire,” or “…something that excites.” Now there are some studies that have been done to classify coffee as an aphrodisiac but the jury is still out on that.

However, coffee, with its ability to stimulate and awaken, combined with chocolate, long hailed as an aphrodisiac and you’ve got a winning combination as far as aphrodisiacs go. Here are two ways to get you on the road but really, chocolate and coffee are just a natural together so let your imagination run free.

Ghirardelli Caffe

Ghirardelli makes great chocolate and I just love their Espresso Escapes but now the Ghirardelli company is making coffee.

“Ghirardelli Chocolate Company began making distinctive chocolates over 140 years ago. Ghirardelli's rich, creamy chocolate flavor has been pleasing discriminating chocolate lovers ever since. Ghirardelli now introduces Ghiradelli Caffe, a line of robust chocolate coffees, made from blending the finest coffee beans from around the world with the richest chocolate taste. An indulgent treat in every cup! 12 oz. bag.”

https://gourmetofoldecity.com/ghirardelli.html?gclid=CLTU1I3r3JgCFQUWGgodnSEscw

Double Mocha Cream

Here’s my own special recipe. It’s got everything you need to get you started in the romance department, even the whipped cream—you can lick it off your sweetie’s nose and lips. You are on your own from there.

2 tbsp. Hershey’s Natural Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (sometimes found in the baking section)
Hershey semi-sweet Mini Chips
1 ounce Cool Brew Mocha Flavor (strongly brewed espresso or instant will do)
¾ cup of milk
2 tbsp. sugar

Mix together sugar and cocoa powder in a large mug
In a separate cup or bowl mix milk and Cool Brew Mocha Flavor
Heat in microwave for 1½ minutes until hot.
Gradually add hot coffee/milk to sugar/cocoa mixture stirring well.

Top with a large dollop of whipped cream
Sprinkle with Hershey semi-sweet Mini Chips

Freshly Whipped Cream

1 cup of heavy cream
¼ cup of sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla

Pour all ingredients into a glass bowl. Use a wire whisk or electric mixer to whip into consistency of whipped cream (enough to form soft peaks—Warning: Over mixing can turn your cream into butter)

Happy Valentine’s Day!