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The Ultimate Creamy Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix (Perfect for Gifting & Pantry Stocking)

Close-up of a white mug filled with freshly made hot cocoa mix, showing a rich, foamy top layer.

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Make rich, creamy hot cocoa mix from scratch using simple pantry staples. This recipe is easy to store, perfect for stocking your pantry, and makes an excellent homemade food gift in a jar.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (use high quality for rich flavor)
  • 1 cup powdered milk (optional, for extra creaminess; omit for dairy-free)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla powder (optional, for depth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for variation)

Instructions

  1. Gather all dry ingredients: powdered sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk (if using), salt, and any optional flavorings like vanilla powder or cinnamon.
  2. Place all ingredients into a large bowl.
  3. Whisk the ingredients together thoroughly for at least two minutes. You must mix well to break up any clumps in the cocoa powder and ensure even distribution of the salt and sugar.
  4. Transfer the finished hot cocoa mix to an airtight container, such as a large mason jar or storage tin.
  5. Store the mix in a cool, dry pantry. This mix keeps well for up to one year.
  6. To prepare one serving: Scoop 3 to 4 tablespoons of the dry mix into a mug. Add 1 cup of hot milk or hot water. Whisk or stir until completely dissolved and smooth. Adjust the amount of mix for your preferred chocolate intensity.

Notes

  • For a richer, old fashioned hot cocoa flavor, use 1/2 cup of cocoa powder and 1/2 cup of finely grated unsweetened chocolate instead of the full 1 cup of cocoa powder, ensuring the grated chocolate is mixed in very well.
  • If you are making this as a homemade food gift, layer the ingredients in a clean mason jar without mixing them first, then attach a label with the mixing instructions.
  • To make this mix without powdered milk, simply omit the powdered milk and use 4 tablespoons of mix per cup of hot liquid, stirring in 1 tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut milk when preparing the drink for added richness.

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