Why You’ll Love This Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
You will love this homemade hot cocoa mix because it is simple, cheap, and tasty. It mixes up fast and gives a warm drink that feels like a hug. You control the sugar and chocolate in each cup. This mix also makes a great gift in a jar for friends and family. It keeps well, so you can make a batch now and enjoy cups of cocoa all winter.
introduction
This short introduction tells you what the mix does and how easy it is to make. The mix uses pantry staples and no special gear. You can make it in one bowl and store it in a jar. If you enjoy making simple treats, you may also like a quick recipe for easy homemade soft pretzels, which pair nicely with warm cocoa.
Why Make This Recipe
Make this recipe because it saves money over store mixes and tastes fresher. You know what goes into it, so you can avoid additives. It is ready anytime for a quick drink. The recipe is flexible: you can use water or milk to suit your taste. It also makes a great gift when put in a pretty jar with a ribbon.
What You Need for Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
You do not need a lot to make this mix. Just a few kitchen items will do:
- A large mixing bowl to combine dry ingredients.
- A whisk or spoon to blend the mix well.
- A fine mesh sieve (optional) to remove lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
- An airtight container or jar to store the mix.
These simple tools keep the work easy and fast.
How to Make Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Follow a few clear steps and you will have a smooth mix to keep on the shelf. Start by measuring your dry ingredients. Whisk them together so the cocoa blends evenly with the powdered sugar and milk powder. If you like small chocolate bits, fold in chocolate chips last so they do not melt into the dry mix. Use a sieve if you see lumps. Put the finished mix in a clean jar and seal it tight. When you want a cup, scoop the mix and add hot water or milk, then stir until smooth. You will have a rich cup in minutes.
Ingredients:
1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 2 cups powdered sugar, 1 cup powdered milk, 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional), 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Directions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, powdered milk, chocolate chips (if using), and salt until well combined.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container.
- To prepare hot cocoa, mix 1/4 cup of the cocoa mix with 1 cup of hot water or milk. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract if desired and enjoy!
These directions are the main steps. You can use hot water for a quick cup or warm milk for a creamier drink. Stir well so the powder dissolves. If you add vanilla, do so after the drink is mixed.
Best Ways to Serve Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Serve this cocoa hot and fresh from the stove or electric kettle. Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a nicer look. For a richer cup, use warm whole milk instead of water. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract for a special twist. Pair your cocoa with a cookie or a slice of cake for a cozy snack. Put a small jar of the mix inside a gift basket for friends or neighbors.
How to Store Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Store the mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. A sealed jar keeps the mix fresh for several months. Keep the jar away from heat and moisture. If you live in a humid place, store the jar in the fridge to protect the powdered milk. Label the jar with the date so you know how long it has been stored. When stored well, the mix stays good and easy to use.
Easy Tips to Make Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Use good-quality unsweetened cocoa for the best flavor. Sift the cocoa if it has lumps before mixing. If you want a finer mix, pulse the dry ingredients in a blender or food processor for a few seconds. When adding chocolate chips, choose mini chips so they stay mixed well. To keep things simple, skip the vanilla in the jar and add it to each cup for a fresher taste. If you want dessert-like cups, stir in a spoon of sweetened condensed milk after mixing the drink. For more easy dessert ideas that pair with cocoa, try making homemade apple turnovers on a cool afternoon.
Try These Variations of Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
- Peppermint cocoa: add 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract when preparing each cup or include a few candy cane bits in the jar.
- Spiced cocoa: add a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg to the mix for warmth.
- Dark chocolate boost: replace half of the cocoa with dark cocoa powder for a deeper flavor.
- Salted caramel: add a teaspoon of caramel powder or a pinch of sea salt to the mix, and top with caramel sauce.
- Sugar-free: use a powdered sugar substitute and a non-dairy powdered milk for a lower-sugar option.
Common Questions About Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Q: How long will the mix keep?
A: If you store it in an airtight jar in a cool, dry place, the mix keeps for several months. Check the powdered milk package for its best-by date as a guide.
Q: Can I use milk instead of water?
A: Yes. Use warm milk for a richer, creamier drink. Heat the milk first, then stir in the mix until smooth.
Q: Do I need to add the vanilla to the jar?
A: No. Vanilla is best added to each cup so the fresh flavor is stronger. The recipe lists it as optional.
Q: Can I make this mix sugar-free?
A: Yes. Use a powdered sugar substitute that measures like sugar and a powdered milk alternative if you need a lower-sugar mix.
Q: Will chocolate chips melt in the jar?
A: Chocolate chips usually stay solid in the dry mix. If they melt in warm storage, use mini chips or store the jar in a cool spot.
Final Thoughts
This homemade hot cocoa mix is simple to make and very flexible. It uses basic pantry items and a few easy steps. The mix is great for cold nights, gifts, or just a quiet treat. You can change it to match your taste and try different toppings to make each cup special.
Ready to Give It a Try?
Make a batch today. Put it in a nice jar, add a ribbon, and keep a few jars for gifts. The mix will save you time when you want a quick warm drink, and it makes a cozy treat for family and friends.
Conclusion
If you want another clear guide and ideas for making your own cocoa mix, see this helpful post on Easy Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe – Just Add Water.
Print
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A simple, cheap, and delicious homemade hot cocoa mix that you can customize to your taste. Perfect for cozy winter evenings or as a thoughtful gift.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 cup powdered milk
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, powdered milk, chocolate chips (if using), and salt until well combined.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container.
- To prepare hot cocoa, mix 1/4 cup of the cocoa mix with 1 cup of hot water or milk. Stir until completely dissolved.
- Add vanilla extract if desired and enjoy!
Notes
Serve hot and top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. For a richer taste, use warm whole milk instead of water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 5mg