Homemade Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

Introduction

Warm up on chilly days with this rich and creamy homemade dark chocolate hot cocoa mix. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for cozy evenings or thoughtful gifts.

Ingredients

• 1¾ cup (210g) powdered sugar
• 6 ounces (170g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, roughly chopped
• 1 cup (80g) cocoa powder, any kind
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Combine the powdered sugar, chopped chocolate, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and salt in a food processor.
2. Step 2: Blend all ingredients until the mixture becomes powdery and well combined, forming the hot cocoa mix.
3. Step 3: Store the mix in an airtight container until ready to use.
4. Step 4: To make a cup of hot cocoa, heat one cup of milk in a saucepan until it begins to simmer.
5. Step 5: Whisk in ¼ to ⅓ cup of the hot cocoa mix until smooth and fully combined.
6. Step 6: Pour into a mug and add your favorite toppings like whipped cream or marshmallows.
7. Step 7: For gifting, layer the hot cocoa mix with mini marshmallows and chocolate chips in a 1-quart mason jar. Seal and attach a recipe card.

Tips & Variations

• Use whole milk or a milk alternative like almond or oat milk for different creamy textures and flavors.
• Add a pinch of cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the mix for a warming, spicy twist.
• For an even smoother mix, sift the powdered sugar and cocoa powder before processing.
• Dark chocolate with 60–70% cocoa content works best for a balanced rich flavor.

Storage

Store your homemade hot cocoa mix in an airtight container at room temperature. It will keep fresh for up to 3 months. Stir well before use if ingredients settle. Reheat prepared hot cocoa gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use milk powder instead of fresh milk?

Yes, you can prepare the hot cocoa with milk powder by dissolving it in hot water according to the powder’s package instructions. This is a convenient option when fresh milk isn’t available.

Is this mix suitable for vegan diets?

The mix itself is dairy-free, but since it includes chocolate, check that your chocolate is vegan-friendly. Use non-dairy milk to prepare the hot cocoa for a fully vegan drink.

Homemade Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

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4.6 from 56 reviews

This Homemade Dark Chocolate Hot Cocoa Mix is a decadent, easy-to-make blend of powdered sugar, rich dark chocolate, and cocoa powder that creates a luxurious hot cocoa drink. Perfect for cozy nights, this mix can be stored for convenience or gifted beautifully in mason jars layered with marshmallows and chocolate chips.

• Author: mia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: Makes about 2 cups of hot cocoa mix, enough for approximately 6-8 servings 1x
• Category: Beverage
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Hot Cocoa Mix Ingredients

• 1¾ cup (210g) powdered sugar
• 6 ounces (170g) semi-sweet or dark chocolate, roughly chopped
• 1 cup (80g) cocoa powder, any kind
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• pinch of salt

Optional Toppings

• Mini marshmallows
• Chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Prepare Hot Cocoa Mix: Combine powdered sugar, roughly chopped semi-sweet or dark chocolate, cocoa powder, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a food processor. Blend all ingredients until the mixture becomes fine and powdery.
2. Store the Mix: Transfer the blended hot cocoa mix into an airtight container to keep it fresh until ready to use.
3. Heat Milk: In a saucepan, gently heat one cup of milk over medium heat until it begins to simmer but does not boil.
4. Make Hot Cocoa: Add ¼ to ⅓ cup of the hot cocoa mix to the simmering milk, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Serve: Pour the hot cocoa into a mug and top with desired toppings such as mini marshmallows or chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
6. Create Gift Jar (Optional): Use a funnel to spoon the hot cocoa mix into a clean 1-quart mason jar, tapping the jar gently on the counter to settle the layers. Add a layer of mini marshmallows and chocolate chips on top, seal with the lid, and attach a recipe card for a thoughtful homemade gift.

Notes

• The cocoa powder can be natural or Dutch-processed based on personal preference.
• Store the hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.
• Adjust the amount of hot cocoa mix added to milk to customize the cocoa’s richness and sweetness.
• For a dairy-free option, heat your choice of plant-based milk instead of regular milk.
• Gifting the mix in mason jars adds a charming, homemade touch perfect for holidays or special occasions.

Keywords: hot cocoa mix, homemade hot chocolate, dark chocolate cocoa, easy hot cocoa, cozy drink, winter beverage