Rich Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix for Cozy Evenings (Print Version)
Craft a comforting Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix from scratch. This simple recipe brings warmth and joy, perfect for chilly evenings or thoughtful gifts.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12 Servings (approx.)
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Base Mix
01 -
1 ½ cups unsweetened cocoa powder (good quality)
02 -
1 cup dry milk powder (whole or skim)
→ Sweeteners
03 -
1 ½ cups granulated sugar
04 -
½ cup powdered sugar
→ Flavor Boosters
05 -
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
06 -
1 teaspoon vanilla powder (or 2 tsp vanilla extract if not making a dry mix)
07 -
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
→ Optional Add-ins
08 -
½ cup mini chocolate chips
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get all your ingredients out on the counter. I always lay them out, almost like a little assembly line. It helps me not forget anything, which, to be real, has happened more times than I'd like to admit. You want to make sure your cocoa powder is lump-free; sometimes I even give it a little sift if it looks clumpy. This is where the magic starts to happen, you can almost smell the chocolatey promise!
02 -
Grab a large bowl, something bigger than you think you need, because powdered ingredients tend to puff up! Add your unsweetened cocoa powder, both sugars, dry milk powder, salt, and vanilla powder. If you're adding cinnamon, toss that in now too. Now, whisk, whisk, whisk! You want to combine everything really well so there are no pockets of unmixed ingredients. I find this step oddly satisfying, like I'm a mad scientist concocting something wonderful. Don't rush it; a thoroughly mixed base makes for the best cocoa.
03 -
If you're using mini chocolate chips, now’s the time to fold them in. Gently, though! You don't want to crush them. Just stir them through the mix until they're evenly distributed. This step is where I always get a little excited, thinking about those melty pockets of chocolate later. It’s like adding a little secret treasure to each scoop of your mix.
04 -
Once everything is perfectly combined, transfer your beautiful mix into an airtight container. A pretty jar or a sealed bag works great. Make sure it’s completely dry inside, or you'll end up with a solid block of chocolatey goodness, which isn't ideal for scooping, oops! I love seeing it lined up on my pantry shelf, ready for a chilly evening.
05 -
When you're ready for a delightful cup, spoon about 2-3 tablespoons of your mix into your favorite mug. Now, add about 8 ounces of hot milk (dairy or non-dairy, your choice!) or hot water. I personally swear by whole milk for that extra creamy factor, but use what you love. Stir well until the mix is completely dissolved. Sometimes I use a little whisk right in the mug for extra froth; it's a tiny indulgence!
06 -
This is the fun part! Top your steaming mug with whatever makes your heart sing. Marshmallows, a swirl of whipped cream, a dusting of extra cocoa powder, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon. I've even added a tiny splash of peppermint extract once—talk about a festive treat! Take a deep breath, smell that glorious chocolate, and savor every warm, comforting sip. This cocoa truly tastes like home.
# Notes:
01 -
Always use good quality cocoa powder; it makes a HUGE difference in flavor.
02 -
Store your mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to keep it fresh for months.
03 -
If you don't have vanilla powder, a tiny splash of vanilla extract can be added directly to your mug when serving.
04 -
For an extra rich cup, try using half-and-half instead of milk, especially for a special treat.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
whisk
03 -
airtight storage container
04 -
measuring cups and spoons.
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 120-150
Total Fat: 3-5g
Total Carbohydrate: 25-30g
Protein: 2-4g