Hot Cocoa Mix
Homemade hot cocoa mix is so much better than anything you get at the store and cheaper too! Whip up a big batch and keep it on hand when the weather turns chilly or give it out as gifts in a cute jar and tag!
Hot cocoa is my drink of choice since I’m not much of a coffee drinker. Plus, let’s be honest, I love any excuse for marshmallows and whipped cream!
Packets from the store don’t even come close to homemade, and making your own means you can make milk or dark chocolate versions. Think of all the fun with toppings too. Use good quality cocoa powder and you’ll taste the difference, trust me on that!
This mix is perfect for making crockpot hot chocolate and hot cocoa dip for parties, and peppermint hot cocoa for family movie nights. Keep a jar in your pantry for whenever cravings hit!
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See recipe card for complete information on ingredients and their quantities.
Ingredient Notes
- Milk powder – I use the regular instant dry milk powder. You can also use the fat free or whole milk version.
- Cocoa – Since the chocolate gives it the flavor, use the best cocoa powder you can find. This one is my favorite! I even make this with dark chocolate cocoa powder.
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How To Make Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
- In a large bowl, sift powdered sugar and instant powdered milk together.
- Sift in cocoa powder and granulated sugar.
- Whisk together until evenly combined.
- Store in an airtight container, like a mason jar, in a cool, dry, place until ready to enjoy.
For the full recipe and detailed instructions, please refer to the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
Hot Cocoa Recipe
Make this in bulk and you’ll always be ready for a cup of hot chocolate.
Portion it out in mason jars with a cute tag and recipe instructions. They make the perfect little gift for friends and neighbors and very budget friendly!
To make a cup of hot cocoa, add ⅓ cup cocoa mix in a mug, stir in 1 cup hot milk or water, and add your favorite toppings. Enjoy!
More Homemade Mixes To Make
Favorite Hot Cocoa Toppings
- Chocolate chips (white, semi sweet, milk, or dark)
- Mini marshmallows
- Whipped cream
- Cinnamon
- Peppermint extract
- Candy canes
- Chocolate wafer straws (Pirouline)
- Sprinkles
Frequently Asked Questions
If you store it in a cool, dry, dark place, it will last up to a whole year. But it might not be a flavorful after all that time. Best to use in 6 months.
Yes, you can! Make the mix with a dairy free powder (here is an oat milk powder that is tasty) and add your choice of water or dairy free milk to mix.
Natural cocoa powder is a little more acidic but has stronger flavor and can be lighter in color. Dutch processed means it’s treated with an alkaline solution so it’s less acidic and is usually darker in color. The biggest difference comes when baking. You will need to leave out the baking soda or change the amount when baking.
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Quality matters – Use good quality cocoa powder for best flavor. Full-fat instant milk powder creates creamier results than low-fat.
- Prevent clumps – Measure ingredients before sifting (it changes the volume). Spoon mix in the mug first, then add warm liquid.
- Choose your liquid – Hot water works, but milk makes creamier, richer hot chocolate.
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Skip the expensive packets at the store and make a bit batch of homemade hot chocolate mix. Perfect when the chilly weather rolls in!
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups powdered milk
- 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder sifted
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup chocolate chips white, milk, or semi-sweet chips
- mini marshmallows optional
Instructions
Hot Cocoa Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, sift powdered sugar. Sift instant milk powder on top of powdered sugar.
- Sift cocoa powder on top or milk. Whisk together.
- Whisk in granulated sugar until evenly combined.
- Store in airtight container or jar for up to 6 months
Hot Cocoa
- Add ⅓ cup of mix in a mug.
- Stir in 1 cup warm milk until mixed.
- Garnish with toppings of your choice.
Notes
- Quality matters – Use good quality cocoa powder for best flavor. Full-fat instant milk powder creates creamier results than low-fat.
- Prevent clumps – Measure ingredients before sifting (it changes the volume). Spoon mix in the mug first, then add warm liquid.
- Choose your liquid – Hot water works, but milk makes creamier, richer hot chocolate.
Nutrition
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