Homemade Cocoa Mix: Rich Chocolatey Sips (Print Version)

Homemade Cocoa Mix recipe - craft chocolatey sips that taste like pure joy. Perfect for gifting or a quiet moment. My simple kitchen secret.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 5 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 12 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian, Gluten-Free

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients

01 - 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar
03 - 1/4 teaspoon fine sea salt

→ Flavor Boosters

04 - 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (or 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract per mug, added separately)
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/2 teaspoon instant espresso powder

→ Optional Extras

07 - 1/8 teaspoon chili powder (or less, to taste)

# Instructions:

01 - Okay, first things first, get all your dry ingredients out. I usually have them lined up on the counter, looking like a little spice army. Grab a big bowl, because we're about to make some dust – and I mean that in the most loving, chaotic kitchen way possible. This is the foundation of your rich cocoa, so let's get it right.
02 - Now, dump the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, vanilla powder, cinnamon, and espresso powder into that bowl. Grab a whisk and just go for it! You want to combine everything really, really well. I always imagine I'm a mad scientist here, creating something magical. Make sure there are no lumps of cocoa hiding, or you'll get a surprise bitter burst in your mug later. Trust me, I've been there with my own batches.
03 - Honestly, if you want that super silky smooth cocoa experience, sift the whole thing through a fine-mesh sieve. It catches any stubborn clumps and makes for a dreamier drink. I sometimes skip this when I'm feeling lazy, and it’s fine, but the sifted version? Chef's kiss! You'll see little bits of sugar and cocoa dust falling through, it’s quite satisfying.
04 - If you're brave enough for that tiny hint of chili powder, this is when you add it. Just a <em>tiny</em> dash, remember? Whisk it in one last time. This is where your cocoa blend gets its unique personality, so don't be afraid to experiment a little after you get the basic recipe down. It's your kitchen, your rules!
05 - Transfer your beautiful, fragrant mix into an airtight jar or container. I love using old mason jars because they look so charming on the counter. Make sure it’s sealed up tight to keep all that amazing aroma locked in. You'll want to inhale it every time you open the lid, I promise.
06 - To make a mug, just add 2-3 tablespoons of your Homemade Cocoa Mix to a cup, pour in hot milk (dairy or non-dairy, your choice!), and stir until everything is dissolved. It should smell intensely chocolatey with those subtle spice notes. Top with marshmallows, whipped cream, whatever makes your heart sing! This blend is truly a little bit of happiness.

# Notes:

01 - A good quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder makes a noticeable difference in richness and color for your Homemade Cocoa Mix. Don't settle for less!
02 - Store this mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. It'll keep beautifully for up to 3 months, though it rarely lasts that long in my house!
03 - If you don't have vanilla powder, you can add a tiny drop of vanilla extract directly to your mug when you make the cocoa. Don't add it to the mix itself, it'll clump!
04 - For an extra decadent cocoa, try melting a square of dark chocolate into your hot milk before adding the mix. Oh my goodness, it's divine!

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large bowl
02 - Whisk
03 - Airtight jar
04 - Fine-mesh sieve (optional)

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 120
Total Fat: 3g
Total Carbohydrate: 25g
Protein: 2g

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