Rich Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix: A Winter Hug in a Mug (Print Version)
Whip up a delightful Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix for cozy nights. This recipe brings back childhood memories and tastes so much better than store-bought!
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 12-15 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian
# Ingredients:
→ Dry Base Ingredients
01 -
2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed for best results)
02 -
2 cups granulated sugar
03 -
1 ½ cups powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar)
04 -
1 teaspoon fine sea salt
→ Flavor Boosters
05 -
2 tablespoons vanilla powder (or 2 tsp vanilla extract added per serving)
06 -
1 tablespoon espresso powder
07 -
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
→ Chocolatey Bits
08 -
1 cup dark chocolate chips (mini preferred)
# Instructions:
01 -
First things first, get all your ingredients out on the counter. I always line everything up, almost like a little kitchen assembly line. It helps me not forget anything, which, let's be real, happens more often than I'd like to admit! Make sure your measuring cups are clean and ready. There's something so satisfying about seeing all those powders and chips waiting to become something delicious. This step just sets the stage for a delightful batch of homemade hot cocoa mix.
02 -
Next, grab a large bowl and a fine-mesh sieve. Sift your unsweetened cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and powdered sugar into the bowl. Honestly, this step is non-negotiable for a truly smooth mix. I once skipped it, thinking "it'll be fine," and ended up with little lumps of cocoa that just wouldn't dissolve. Don't be like me! This makes your homemade hot cocoa mix wonderfully smooth later on.
03 -
Now, add your salt, vanilla powder (if using), espresso powder, and ground cinnamon to the sifted ingredients. Give it a really good whisk. You want everything evenly distributed, so every spoonful of your homemade hot cocoa mix has that consistent, warm flavor. I love how the aroma starts to build here, a promise of deliciousness to come. It smells like pure comfort!
04 -
Gently fold in your dark chocolate chips. I like to use mini ones because they melt faster and distribute better in the mix, but any size works. Just make sure they're thoroughly mixed in so you get those little pockets of extra melty chocolate in every cup. This step makes the homemade hot cocoa mix extra special, giving it that luxurious touch.
05 -
Keep mixing, making sure all the ingredients are perfectly combined. I usually grab a big spoon and really get in there, breaking up any tiny clumps that might have formed. The goal is a uniform, beautiful brown powder. This is where the homemade hot cocoa mix starts to look like the real deal, ready for gifting or enjoying yourself.
06 -
Transfer your glorious homemade hot cocoa mix to an airtight container or jar. I love using pretty glass jars, especially if I'm planning to give some away as gifts. Make sure it's sealed tight to keep it fresh. Now you've got a stash of deliciousness ready for whenever a craving for warm, chocolatey goodness hits. It smells so inviting when you open the jar!
# Notes:
01 -
Always sift your dry ingredients; it prevents lumps and ensures a smooth drink, a lesson I learned the hard way!
02 -
Storing in an airtight container in a cool, dry place keeps it fresh for months.
03 -
For dairy-free, use plant-based milk when serving; the mix itself is already dairy-free.
04 -
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings for an extra special treat.
# Equipment Needed:
01 -
Large mixing bowl
02 -
fine-mesh sieve
03 -
whisk
04 -
airtight container/jars
# Nutrition (Per Serving):
Calories: 150-200 (per serving, prepared with milk)
Total Fat: 5-8g
Total Carbohydrate: 25-35g
Protein: 3-5g