Hot Chocolate Heaven

1 cup raw cashews, soaked overnight                       
4 soft dates or dried figs, pitted, soaked overnight
4 cups water                                                             
1-2 drops peppermint oil (optional)
3 tbsp raw cacao powder

Rinse cashews and dates/figs and blend in a high-speed blender with 4 cups clean, filtered or spring water until smooth.  Add cacao and continue to blend until warm.  Add peppermint oil if desired.

Alternatively, blend ingredients in a conventional blender and then warm milk on stove, stirring in raw cacao and peppermint, if using, until thoroughly incorporated.