The Ultimate Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix - Easy Recipe (2024)

Searching for the best hot cocoa recipe? Discover a homemade mix that’s both easy and delicious. With quality ingredients and a taste that brings back memories, it’s a delightful treat for snowy days and festive gatherings.

Hot cocoa is a winter staple that I look forward to each year. I’ll admit that I’ve tried my fair share of hot chocolate recipes (you know, research for the blog and all), but this is my favorite recipe for creating a large batch of homemade hot cocoa mix that can be ready in an instant!

While I was decking my halls, I decided to set up a hot cocoa station in my dining room. That inspired me to whip up a big batch of this delicious homemade hot cocoa mix.

Side note: I also found this super cute vintage metal thermos on eBay, and it was begging to be a part of a hot chocolate display. Mission accomplished. This thermos made the cut of my all-time favorite vintage Christmas decor items. I really love it!

If memory serves me correctly, this recipe came from my sister-in-law, who used to make it for my nephews and niece. Now you can skip the store-bought hot chocolate pouches and just whip up a big container of this. It’s great to have on hand for when the mood strikes or company arrives over the holidays.

There are so many reasons that you’ll love this recipe. This hot cocoa mix is the perfect thing to have in your pantry when the weather gets super cold. It has the richest flavors and doesn’t have the same stale taste as boxed cocoa mix. I recommend serving it with your favorite Christmas cookies for the ultimate treat!

You can even save it and give it as a gift to people. I’ll share my entire recipe (and answer your biggest questions) in this recipe. Looking for more gift ideas you can make? This post with all of my favorite handmade holiday gift is for you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• it’s a hug in a mug: Every sip is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. This hot cocoa mix is pure comfort, and it’s perfect for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up.
• Quick and convenient: While it might be homemade, it doesn’t mean it’s time-consuming. Whip up a large batch, and you’ll have an instant treat ready whenever the craving strikes.
• Perfect for gifting: Looking for a thoughtful present? This hot cocoa mix is an excellent choice. Pack it in a cute jar, tie a ribbon, and you’ve got a heartfelt gift for friends, family, or even teachers.
• Budget-friendly indulgence: Creating your own mix can be kinder to your wallet than constantly buying premade versions. Plus, it feels a tad bit luxurious to have your own signature cocoa blend.
• A treat for all ages: Whether you’re 5 or 95, this hot cocoa is a timeless treat that brings a smile to faces young and old.

Ingredients

The secret to a really good hot cocoa mix is the ingredients. I have lots of special things that I put in my homemade hot cocoa mix recipe.

• Non-Dairy Powdered Creamer: This not only adds rich flavor to it but also makes it creamier too. You can use French Vanilla flavored creamer, but unflavored is the best in my opinion.
• Dry Powdered Milk: This adds creaminess and richness to the hot cocoa.
• Chocolate Chips: Use dark chocolate chips for a really luxurious taste.
• Cocoa Powder: Any type of cocoa powder will work.
• White Granulated Sugar: Regular white sugar is best in this recipe.

How To Make

It’s simple. You can make this hot chocolate mix in two simple steps. I’ve shared the steps below. I’ve also provideda full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card at the end of this post.

1. Combine non-dairy powdered coffee creamer, dry powdered milk, chocolate chips, cocoa powder, and sugar in a large bowl.
2. Whisk together to combine.

(Alternatively, you can also put all of the ingredients in your storage container and just shake well to combine.)

It’s honestly that simple!

And that’s it, my friends! Your homemade hot cocoa mix is ready!

How to Serve

Once you’re hot cocoa mix is made, it’s ready to serve!

It’s so simple!

• To serve, place 1/4 to 1/3 cup cocoa mix in a mug.
• Pour in warm milk. (You can also use hot water, but I think the warm milk adds to the creaminess.)
• Stir until well blended.
• Top with mini marshmallows or whatever other toppings you’d like.

It’s that simple. Want to take it to the next level? Here are a few more ideas you’ll love.

Additional Serving Ideas

• Classic Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream on top adds a creamy texture that complements the rich cocoa. For a fun twist, try flavoring your whipped cream with a hint of vanilla or peppermint extract.
• Marshmallow Mountain: Pile on the mini marshmallows! As they melt into the hot cocoa, they’ll create a gooey, sweet layer that’s simply irresistible.
• Spice It Up: A pinch of cinnamon or a drop of peppermint extract can transform your cup into a festive delight. If you’re feeling adventurous, a tiny sprinkle of chili powder can add a surprising kick!
• Chocolate Drizzle: Melt a bit of your favorite chocolate and drizzle it over the top for an extra layer of decadence.
• Cocoa Dippers: Serve your hot cocoa with chocolate-covered spoons or chocolate-dipped stirrers. As they melt into the drink, they’ll add an extra dose of chocolaty goodness.
• Cookie Companions: Dunking a freshly baked cookie into your cocoa? Yes, please! Classic choices like shortbread, biscotti, or ginger snaps are perfect pairings.
• Fruity Finish: A few fresh raspberries or a slice of orange can add a tangy contrast to the rich cocoa, making every sip a delightful experience.
• Go Nutty: A sprinkle of crushed hazelnuts or almonds on top can add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to your drink.
• Liqueur Lift: For the adults, a splash of your favorite liqueur, be it Baileys, Kahlúa, or Frangelico, can make your cocoa a grown-up treat.

Make it a Gift

This hot cocoa mix also makes a great handmade gift idea. I would double the batch and portion it out in small mason jars. Tie a pretty ribbon around each jar, add a candy cane, and you’re good to go.

You could even include a set of my DIY Bottle Brush Tree Drink Stirrers. They would make the perfect combination. Get the tutorial HERE.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we get to the hot chocolate mix recipe, here are some questions people often ask about it. If you don’t see your question in this list, please leave it in the comments.

What is the difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate?

People use these two words interchangeably, but there are some actual differences between them.

Hot cocoa is thinner and tends to be creamier and sweeter. It’s usually made from a dry mix and has lots of different additives (like things that prevent the ingredients from caking together).

True hot chocolate is richer and denser, usually made by melting chocolate and adding milk to it. Some types of hot chocolate might taste bittersweet because of the amount of pure cacao used as the base.

How do you make hot chocolate without mix?

You can use my recipe to make even one individual cup of hot cocoa. If you don’t have any of the ingredients, you can still have hot chocolate. Just melt your favorite chocolate bar and stir in some warm milk. Keep adding milk until it is as thick as you like.

How do you make hot cocoa without cocoa powder?

The best way to make hot chocolate without cocoa powder is to use real chocolate bars. Melt your favorite type of chocolate in a saucepan and add milk until it is a drinkable consistency.

The best thing about this method is that you can make dark chocolate or make it light and sweet with milk chocolate.

However, it’s not necessarily the easiest method as chocolate can burn easily, as can milk. So I suggest you make this hot chocolate mix!

What are the best toppings for hot chocolate?

This is the fun part! I love to add whipped cream on top and then drizzle some more chocolate sauce on top of that. Then, either add sprinkles or some cookie crumbs. If you like caramel, crush some caramel candies and add them on top.

More Drink Recipes You’ll Love

• Pumpkin White hot Chocolate
• Slow Cooker Sangria
• Hot Apple Cider
• Spiked Caramel Apple Cider Tea
• Mulled Wine
• Apple Cinnamon Hot Toddy

It truly is that easy to make your own homemade hot cocoa mix from scratch. I hope you love this easy hot chocolate recipe as much as I do. Here’s to many a hot cocoa mustache! If you try this recipe and enjoy it,please leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.

Want more from Inspired by Charm?Follow along onInstagramandTikTokfor daily updates and behind-the-scenes looks at my processes. There’s even more inspiration onFacebookandPinterest!