Description
Whip up this big batch of homemade hot cocoa mix using simple pantry staples. This recipe creates a rich, velvety chocolate powder that is perfect for stocking your pantry or assembling as a thoughtful, cozy winter gift in a jar.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups Granulated Sugar
- 2 cups Unsweetened Cocoa Powder (use high-quality for best flavor)
- 1 cup Powdered Milk (optional, omit for dairy-free)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Instant Espresso Powder (optional, deepens chocolate flavor)
Instructions
- Gather all your ingredients in a large bowl. If you are omitting powdered milk, ensure you have a good quality cocoa powder for richness.
- Add the granulated sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered milk (if using), salt, and instant espresso powder (if using) to the bowl.
- Use a whisk to thoroughly combine all the dry ingredients. Whisk for at least one minute to break up any clumps of cocoa powder and ensure even distribution of the salt and sugar.
- If you are making a very large batch or want an ultra-fine texture, pulse the mixture in a food processor a few times until very smooth. Do not over-process, as this can cause the sugar to clump.
- Transfer the finished hot cocoa mix to an airtight container for storage. This bulk recipe stores well in the pantry for several months.
- To prepare a single serving of rich hot chocolate, mix 1/3 cup of the mix with 1 cup of hot milk or hot water. Stir well until completely dissolved.
Notes
- For a creamy, velvety cup, always use hot milk instead of water. Whole milk provides the richest texture.
- To create a lovely hot cocoa mix in a jar gift, layer the dry mix with mini marshmallows and tie a ribbon around the jar. Include a tag with the simple instruction: Mix 1/3 cup powder with 1 cup hot liquid.
- If you need a recipe without powdered milk, simply omit that ingredient; the mix will still be delicious, though slightly less creamy when mixed with water.
- Prep Time: 5 min
- Cook Time: 0 min
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 cup dry mix
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 32g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg