How to Make Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix: A Simple and Delicious Recipe
Winter is the perfect time to indulge in a warm and comforting drink, and homemade hot cocoa is the ultimate choice. Unlike store-bought varieties filled with artificial flavors and preservatives, making your own hot cocoa mix at home gives you full control over the ingredients, ensuring that every sip is rich, creamy, and full of natural flavors. Whether you prefer your hot cocoa with water or milk, this recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your personal taste. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making your very own homemade hot cocoa mix that will keep you cozy all season long.
Ingredients for Hot Cocoa Mix
Making hot cocoa mix from scratch requires just a few simple ingredients, all of which are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cocoa Powder
- Powdered Milk
- Powdered Sugar
- Wide Mouth Quart Jar (32 oz)
This mix can be stored for months, making it an ideal addition to your winter pantry or a thoughtful homemade gift. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it based on your personal preferences. Let’s break down the ingredients and the method for preparing the perfect cup of hot cocoa.
Why Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix is Better
Homemade hot cocoa mix has a number of advantages over store-bought options. First and foremost, it’s free from artificial flavors, additives, and preservatives. You also have the option to use high-quality cocoa powder, which gives your drink a deeper, more satisfying flavor. Moreover, by making your own mix, you can adjust the sweetness to your liking, ensuring it’s as sweet or as mild as you prefer.
When you make your own cocoa mix, you’re also saving money in the long run. Commercial hot cocoa brands often come in small packages at a higher price point, while homemade mixes can be made in bulk for a fraction of the cost. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare!
How to Make Hot Cocoa Mix
Making hot cocoa mix is incredibly straightforward. Here’s how you can whip up a batch in just a few steps.
Step 1: Prepare Your Jar
Start by grabbing a wide-mouth quart jar (32 oz). This size is perfect for storing your homemade cocoa mix, and the wide opening makes it easy to scoop out the mix when you’re ready to make your hot cocoa. A mason jar or any similar-sized jar works well for this recipe.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients:
- Cocoa Powder
- Powdered Milk
- Powdered Sugar
Stir these ingredients together until they are well mixed. This step is crucial because it ensures that the cocoa powder, milk powder, and sugar are evenly distributed throughout the mix, allowing for consistent flavor in each cup you prepare.
Label Your Jars!
This recipe is printed on a dishwasher-safe label made for the lids of mason jars! Each label has the recipe to refill the jar and make the item (if applicable).
You can buy each label individually, or a pack of all of the pantry labels in my website shop.
Step 3: Transfer the Mix to the Jar
Once your dry ingredients are thoroughly combined, carefully transfer the mixture into your wide-mouth quart jar. Tap the jar gently on the counter to settle the ingredients and make sure there’s enough space to store the mix properly.
Step 4: Label and Store Your Hot Cocoa Mix
Seal your jar tightly and label it with the date it was made. Store the jar in a cool, dry place, such as your pantry, until you’re ready to use it. The cocoa mix will stay fresh for months, making it a convenient option for winter nights or gifting.
How to Make Hot Cocoa with Your Homemade Mix
Making a cup of hot cocoa with your homemade mix is just as easy as preparing the mix itself. Here’s how to do it:
Step 1: Heat Your Liquid
Pour one cup of hot water or milk into a small pot or microwave-safe container. Heat it until it’s hot but not boiling. Milk will give your cocoa a creamier texture, while water will make it a bit lighter.
Step 2: Add the Cocoa Mix
Add 3-4 tablespoons of your homemade hot cocoa mix to the hot liquid. Stir well until the mix is fully dissolved, and you’re left with a smooth, rich beverage.
Step 3: Adjust to Your Taste
Taste your cocoa and adjust it if necessary. If you like it sweeter, add a little extra sugar or a pinch of cinnamon. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract for a hint of flavor.
Step 4: Enjoy!
Once your cocoa is prepared, pour it into your favorite mug, top it with whipped cream or marshmallows, and enjoy your cozy, homemade treat.
How to Refill Your Hot Cocoa Mix
If you find yourself running low on your homemade cocoa mix, refilling it is simple. You just need to follow this easy refill recipe:
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups powdered milk
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Mix the ingredients together and store them in your jar. Your homemade hot cocoa mix will be good to go again in no time!
Benefits of Homemade Hot Cocoa
In addition to the delicious taste, there are several benefits to making your own hot cocoa mix. Here are just a few:
- Cost-Effective: You can make several batches of hot cocoa mix for a fraction of the cost of pre-packaged varieties.
- Customizable: Adjust the sweetness or add flavorings like cinnamon, vanilla, or peppermint to suit your preferences.
- Long Shelf Life: Properly stored cocoa mix can last for months, allowing you to enjoy it all winter long.
Your turn!
There’s no better way to enjoy a warm drink on a cold winter day than with a homemade cup of hot cocoa. By making your own cocoa mix, you’re ensuring that every sip is filled with quality ingredients and a comforting taste that can’t be matched by store-bought options. Whether you’re snuggling up with a good book, spending time with family, or giving it as a gift, homemade hot cocoa mix is a treat you’ll want to make again and again.
Check Out My Cookbook, From Scratch!
I’m excited to share my cookbook with you, created with sustainability and flavor in mind! From Scratch is packed with delicious, eco-conscious recipes designed to nourish both you and the planet. Every dish is carefully crafted to use fresh, local ingredients, and focuses on minimizing waste while maximizing taste.
From wholesome breakfasts to hearty dinners, my cookbook offers a variety of plant-based meals that are easy to prepare and full of nutrients. Whether you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint or simply enjoy meals that are better for you and the Earth, this cookbook is your guide to eating in a way that’s both kind to the planet and satisfying to your taste buds. You can grab your copy here:
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Check Out The Pantry Labels
In 2024, I released a set of Pantry Labels with recipes that are dishwasher-safe and fit the lids of mason jars perfectly.
Each labels has the recipe to refill the dry mix jar, as well as the recipe to make the item if applicable.
Hot Chocolate Mix
Ingredients
Dry Mix
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 1/2 cups powdered milk
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
Make Hot Cocoa
- 3-4 tbsp dry mix
- 1 cup hot water or milk
Instructions
To Make Dry Mix
- Prepare a wide-mouth quart jar (32 oz) for storage.
- In a large bowl, combine the cocoa powder, powdered milk, and powdered sugar.
- Mix the dry ingredients thoroughly until evenly combined.
- Transfer the mix into the prepared jar.
- Seal and label the jar with the date.
- Store the jar in a cool, dry place.
To Make Hot Cocoa
- Heat 1 cup of hot water or milk until hot but not boiling.
- Add 3-4 tablespoons of the homemade hot cocoa mix.
- Stir until completely dissolved.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if desired.
- Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!
