Name: Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 2 1/2 cups dry milk powder; 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional); 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate (optional); Marshmallows (optional, for serving)

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There’s nothing quite like sipping a warm cup of hot cocoa on a chilly day, and having a homemade hot cocoa mix ready to go makes it even better. I love keeping a jar of this in my pantry all winter long. It’s rich, creamy, and just the right balance of chocolatey sweetness. Making it from scratch means I know exactly what’s in it—no preservatives or artificial flavors, just cozy comfort in every sip. Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how easy and quick it is to whip up a big batch of this hot cocoa mix. It’s perfect for gifting during the holidays or keeping on hand for spontaneous cocoa cravings. This mix is also super versatile—I can adjust the sweetness or make it dairy-free if needed. Plus, it dissolves beautifully in hot milk or water, giving me a smooth, velvety cup every time.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Powdered sugar
Unsweetened cocoa powder
Dry milk powder
Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Salt
Mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate (optional, for extra richness)
Marshmallows (optional, for serving)

Directions

I sift together the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, dry milk, cornstarch, and salt into a large bowl to avoid any clumps.
If I’m using mini chocolate chips or chopped chocolate, I stir them in next for an extra chocolatey boost.
I store the mix in an airtight container or jar until I’m ready to use it.
To serve, I heat a cup of milk or water and stir in about 2 to 3 tablespoons of the mix until it’s completely dissolved and smooth.
I top it with marshmallows or whipped cream for a cozy finish.

Servings and timing

This recipe typically makes about 12 servings, depending on how much mix I use per cup. Each serving takes only about 5 minutes to prepare once the mix is ready. The whole batch of mix itself takes about 10 minutes to put together.

Variations

For a dairy-free version, I use coconut milk powder instead of dry milk and mix with non-dairy milk.
I sometimes add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg for a spiced cocoa.
A drop of peppermint extract or some crushed candy canes stirred in during the holidays adds a festive touch.
For mocha flavor, I mix in a little instant coffee or espresso powder.
I like using dark chocolate shavings instead of milk chocolate for a richer flavor.

Storage/reheating

I store the hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It stays fresh for up to 3 months. When I’m ready for a cup, I heat my milk or water until it’s hot but not boiling, then stir in the mix until it’s creamy and smooth.

FAQs

How much mix should I use per cup?

I typically use 2 to 3 tablespoons of mix per 1 cup of hot milk or water, depending on how rich I want it.

Can I make this without dry milk powder?

Yes, I can skip the dry milk powder if I plan to use milk instead of water when preparing the drink.

Is this mix suitable for gifting?

Absolutely! I love packing it in small jars or cellophane bags with a ribbon—it makes a thoughtful homemade gift.

Can I use this mix with cold milk?

Technically yes, but it won’t dissolve well. I prefer using hot milk or water to get that smooth, creamy texture.

What’s the best way to make a large batch for a crowd?

I prepare a bigger batch of the mix ahead of time and keep it in a large jar. Then I heat a pot of milk on the stove and stir in the mix, adjusting the amount to taste.

Conclusion

This homemade hot cocoa mix is a must-have in my kitchen during the colder months. It’s simple to make, customizable to my preferences, and far better than store-bought options. Whether I’m cozying up on the couch or hosting friends, it’s always a hit—and I never get tired of the warm, chocolatey comfort it brings.