Rich Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix for Cozy Nights (Print Version)

Craft a rich Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix at home! This recipe brings warmth, comfort, and nostalgic flavor to your mug. Easy to make and perfect for gifting.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 10-12 Servings (approx)
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ Base Powders

01 - 1 ½ cups unsweetened cocoa powder (high quality, please!)
02 - 1 cup whole milk powder (or skim for lighter)

→ Sweeteners & Enhancers

03 - 2 cups granulated sugar
04 - 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar)
05 - ½ teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Flavor Boosters

06 - 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (or 1 tsp vanilla extract added to milk when serving)
07 - ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

→ Optional Add-ins

08 - ½ cup mini chocolate chips
09 - Marshmallows, whipped cream, or sprinkles for serving

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get all your ingredients out on the counter. I always do this because, honestly, I've started recipes only to realize halfway through I'm missing something crucial. It's a bit of a mess, but a happy one! Measure out your cocoa, sugars, and salt into a large, dry bowl. I love the smell of the cocoa powder as it hits the air; it’s the first hint of the magic to come.
02 - Now, take a sturdy whisk and really get in there. You want to combine the unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, powdered sugar, and salt until there are no clumps. This is where I always make sure to break up any stubborn sugar lumps. If you don't, you'll end up with little pockets of unmixed powder later, and nobody wants a gritty sip of their homemade hot chocolate!
03 - Next, gently fold in the milk powder and vanilla powder (if using). This step is crucial for that rich, creamy texture when you finally make your drink. I usually sift my milk powder to avoid any lumps—a lesson learned after a few less-than-smooth batches. It’s all about getting that silky consistency in your hot chocolate mix.
04 - Time for the cinnamon. Just a tiny amount, it adds such a lovely warmth without overpowering the chocolate. Whisk it in thoroughly. I always take a quick sniff here; the blend of chocolate and spice is just heavenly. Make sure everything is evenly distributed; you don't want a cinnamon explosion in one cup and none in another!
05 - If you're adding mini chocolate chips, now’s the time to gently fold them into your hot chocolate mix. I love seeing them nestled in the powder, promising little bursts of melted chocolate later. This step is optional, but honestly, it makes the mix feel extra special, especially when you're scooping it out.
06 - Transfer your glorious Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix into an airtight jar or container. I usually use a pretty mason jar, especially if I'm planning to gift some. Make sure it’s completely sealed to keep it fresh. Now, you’ve got a batch of deliciousness ready for whenever that hot chocolate craving hits!

# Notes:

01 - Always use high-quality cocoa powder; it makes all the difference in flavor intensity.
02 - Don't skip the powdered sugar, it's key for a smooth, non-gritty drink.
03 - Store your Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix in an airtight container to prevent clumping and keep it fresh.
04 - For extra richness, use whole milk or a mix of milk and cream when preparing your drink.

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large mixing bowl
02 - whisk
03 - airtight jar or container

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 180-220 (per serving, mix only)
Total Fat: 5-8g
Total Carbohydrate: 30-40g
Protein: 4-6g

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