“Warm up your heart and soul with a sip of homemade hot cocoa.”
This Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix is the quintessential treat when winter rolls around or during chilly evenings. I can still remember sitting by the fireplace as a child, sipping on homemade cocoa, feeling cozy and loved. This delightful mix is packed with flavor, a hug in a mug, perfect for sharing on special occasions or keeping all to yourself!

Table of Contents
Why Should You Make Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix?
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix is not only delicious, but it’s also a breeze to make.
It’s the ultimate comfort food that’s both nostalgic and customizable. In just a few minutes, you can whip up a batch of this rich cocoa mix, perfect for cold days or holiday gatherings. Plus, it’s much better than store-bought alternatives, as you can control the sweetness and ingredients, ensuring full flavor without those questionable additives. Additionally, you can easily store it in an airtight container, making it convenient for any time cravings! The ingredients, like cocoa powder and powdered milk, are pantry staples, so you’ll always be ready for a cozy moment.
If you’re short on time but eager for a homemade treat, try this Hot Cocoa Mix! You can also check out some of my favorite energy-filled snacks to enjoy alongside it!
What Makes This Hot Cocoa Mix Unique?
This Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix stands out with its rich combination of flavors.
Quality Ingredients Matter
The unsweetened cocoa powder is the star here, bringing a deep chocolate flavor
while the powdered sugar adds the perfect sweetness. The powdered milk creates a creamy texture, surpassing any typical instant cocoa mix. I’ve added chocolate chips to elevate this mix into something extraordinary; they melt into the hot water or milk and create luscious chocolate pockets.
An Optional Flavor Enhancement
You could also boost the cocoa’s profile even further by adding a dash of vanilla extract.
This optional touch provides a warm, aromatic flavor that elevates the drink to café-style luxury. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a peppermint extract during the holidays or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a spicy twist.
Perfect for Gift Giving
This mix makes an amazing gift! Just package it in a pretty jar, add a label, and tie it with ribbon!
Your friends and family will truly appreciate the personal touch, and you can include a little note with servings suggestions.
What Ingredients Do You Need for Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix?
Here’s a quick list of what you’ll need to create this delightful beverage.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Unsweetened cocoa powder | 1 cup |
| Powdered sugar | 2 cups |
| Powdered milk | 2 cups |
| Chocolate chips | 1/2 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract (optional) | 1 teaspoon |

The main star ingredients are the unsweetened cocoa powder and powdered milk. The cocoa provides rich flavor, while the powdered milk gives the hot cocoa its signature creaminess. Substituting regular milk with powdered milk can make preparation easier and shelf-stable. If you’re aiming for a dairy-free option, opt for powdered coconut milk. It still blends beautifully and adds a delicious tropical twist.
How Do You Make This Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Step-by-Step?
Making Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix is quick and easy!
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by gathering your large bowl and measuring out all of your ingredients. Mix together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, powdered milk, chocolate chips, and salt until well combined. I like to use a whisk for this, ensuring everything blends evenly.
Step 2: Store Your Cocoa Mix
Once all ingredients are thoroughly mixed, transfer them to an airtight container. Use a jar or a ziplock bag, but ensure it’s sealed tightly to keep the moisture out.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Storage | Nutritional Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 0 minutes | Up to 6 months | Approx. 120 calories per serving |
Step 3: Enjoy Your Hot Cocoa!
When you’re ready for a warm treat, simply take 3 tablespoons of your cocoa mix and stir it into 1 cup of hot water or milk of your choice. The creaminess will come alive as it mixes, giving you that perfect, rich cocoa.
Once prepared, don’t forget to top it with some marshmallows or whipped cream for an extra indulgent experience.
How Can You Customize Your Hot Cocoa Mix?
There are endless ways to make this hot cocoa mix your own!
Diet Swap
If you’re looking for a lower sugar option, consider reducing the powdered sugar to suit your taste.
You can even use a liquid sweetener like agave syrup to adjust the sweetness. If you prefer a keto-friendly option, look for keto sweeteners to replace the sugar, and check that your chocolate chips are sugar-free.
Flavor Variation
Try adding spices like cayenne for a delightful kick!
Almond extract is another great alternative for a nuttier flavor. You could also jazz things up by stirring in peppermint or hazelnut extracts for a seasonal twist. For a unique spin, you can add a dash of espresso powder to intensify the chocolate flavor, making it irresistible. Pumpkin Spice Hot Chocolate is another delightful variation to explore!
Serving Idea
Pair your hot cocoa with homemade cookies or scones!
| Suggested Pairings |
|---|
| Chocolate chip cookies |
| Snickerdoodles |
| Gingerbread men |
Whether it’s a cozy night in or festive gathering, add a plate of baked goods for the perfect complement to your hot cocoa.
Final Thoughts on Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Making Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix is not just about the drink itself, but the joy it brings to you and others. From cozy winter nights at home to sharing with loved ones, there’s something special about enjoying a warm cup of chocolate goodness. Plus, with all the customization available, your cocoa can match your mood or occasion perfectly.
Don’t forget to store it in an airtight container; it can last up to six months! So why not make a batch today? And if you love it, be sure to share your creations! Check out my Pinterest page for more delicious ideas and inspiration.
FAQ
Can I use regular milk instead of powdered milk?
Yes, you can definitely use regular milk when preparing your hot cocoa. Just mix 3 tablespoons of the cocoa mix into a cup of hot milk for a creamy treat. However, if you want the mix to last longer in storage, powdered milk helps with that.
How long does the cocoa mix last?
When stored in an airtight container, this homemade hot cocoa mix can last up to six months. To ensure it remains fresh, keep it in a cool, dry place.
Can I add spices to the hot cocoa mix?
Absolutely! You can add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cayenne for a spicy kick to your hot cocoa. Feel free to experiment with different spice blends!
What can I use instead of chocolate chips?
If you don’t have chocolate chips on hand, you can substitute with chopped dark chocolate or cocoa nibs. Alternatively, you could skip them for a lighter mix.
Is this recipe suitable for dairy-free diets?
To make this hot cocoa mix dairy-free, simply replace the powdered milk with powdered coconut milk. You can use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk when preparing your hot cocoa.
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
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Discover the joy of making homemade hot cocoa mix, combining rich cocoa, sweet sugar, creamy powdered milk, and chocolate chips, perfect for cozy nights.
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 16 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 2 cups powdered milk
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and whisk until well mixed.
- Transfer the cocoa mix to an airtight container to keep moisture out.
- To enjoy, stir 3 tablespoons of the cocoa mix into 1 cup of hot water or milk.
Notes
Customize with spices or sweeteners as desired. Store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
- Author: Vivian Brooks
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverages
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 17g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 23g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg

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