Rich Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe for Warm Sipping (Print Version)

Craft a delightful Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe. This easy blend makes creamy, comforting hot chocolate perfect for chilly evenings or gifting.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 10 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 0 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 10-12 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: American
Dietary: Vegetarian

# Ingredients:

→ Base Ingredients for Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

01 - 1 ½ cups unsweetened cocoa powder (Dutch-processed recommended)
02 - 2 cups granulated sugar

→ Sweeteners & Thickeners

03 - 1 cup powdered sugar (confectioners' sugar)

→ Flavor Boosters

04 - 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
05 - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract powder (or 1 teaspoon cornstarch for thickness)

→ Optional Extras for Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

06 - ½ cup milk powder (whole or non-fat, for extra creaminess)

# Instructions:

01 - First things first, get all your ingredients out. I usually line them up on the counter, a little ritual before the mixing magic begins. Make sure your measuring cups and spoons are clean and dry. I once used a slightly damp spoon for my powdered sugar, and it was a clumpy mess. You want everything to be free-flowing here, trust me, it makes the next steps so much easier. It's all about setting yourself up for success, right?
02 - This step is non-negotiable for a truly smooth homemade hot cocoa mix. Grab a large bowl and a fine-mesh sieve. Sift together the cocoa powder, both sugars, salt, and vanilla extract powder (or cornstarch) into the bowl. Don't skip this! I've tried, thinking "it'll be fine," and ended up with frustrating little clumps that never fully dissolved. Sifting breaks up any lumps and ensures everything is evenly distributed. It feels a bit like baking, honestly.
03 - Once everything is sifted, grab a whisk and thoroughly combine all the ingredients. You want to make sure there are no streaks of cocoa or sugar, just a uniform, beautiful brown powder. Whisk for a good minute or two, really getting in there. I always imagine I'm whipping up some sort of magical potion, and honestly, the aroma that starts to waft up is just heavenly. This is where the magic really starts to happen!
04 - If you're including milk powder for that extra creamy touch in your homemade hot cocoa mix, now's the time to gently fold it in. Add it to the bowl with your thoroughly whisked dry ingredients. Use your whisk again, or even a spoon, to incorporate it until it's completely blended. Be gentle, you don't want to over-aerate it too much. This step really takes your cocoa from good to "oh my goodness, what is this?!"
05 - Transfer your freshly made homemade hot cocoa mix to an airtight container. A pretty mason jar works wonders, especially if you're planning on gifting it. Make sure the container is completely dry; any moisture is the enemy here! I usually use a funnel to avoid any mess, because honestly, cocoa powder can get everywhere. Seal it tight, and it's ready for whenever a cocoa craving strikes. It's so satisfying seeing it all neatly stored.
06 - To make a mug, simply add 2-3 tablespoons of your delicious homemade hot cocoa mix to a mug. Pour in about 8 ounces of hot milk (dairy or non-dairy, whatever you fancy!). Stir well until completely dissolved. Top with marshmallows, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of cinnamon, whatever makes your heart sing. The aroma of warm chocolate filling the air is just the best, isn't it? It smells like pure comfort.

# Notes:

01 - Always sift your cocoa powder and powdered sugar! Clumps are no fun, trust me, I've had many lumpy cocoa moments.
02 - Keep this homemade hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool, dark pantry. It stays fresh for months, making it a brilliant prep-ahead option.
03 - If you're out of regular granulated sugar, brown sugar works too, but it gives a slightly different, caramelly note. I tried it once, and it was surprisingly good for a change!
04 - For an extra frothy mug, whisk your hot cocoa mix with a splash of milk first to make a paste, then add the rest of the hot milk. It makes all the difference!

# Equipment Needed:

01 - Large mixing bowl
02 - fine-mesh sieve
03 - whisk
04 - airtight storage container (e.g.
05 - mason jar)
06 - measuring cups and spoons

# Nutrition (Per Serving):

Calories: 150 kcal (per serving of mix)
Total Fat: 2g
Total Carbohydrate: 30g
Protein: 3g

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