There is nothing quite like curling up on the couch with a nice cup of homemade hot chocolate to warm you up, especially during those cold winter months. And, there’s nothing quite like making that rich, decadent cocoa yourself instead of using a pre-made powdered mix.
Why Make it Homemade?
With a homemade cocoa mix you can control the type of ingredients that you use. For example, you can avoid artificial ingredients, use your favorite cocoa powder or limit the amount of sugar added to the mix. And, if you’re looking to make a gift that is relatively inexpensive, homemade hot chocolate is a perfectly sweet idea.
Ingredient Line-Up
Cocoa Powder – dutch-processed cocoa powder is best, as it dissolves easily; but any unsweetened cocoa powder is fine.
Instant Nonfat Dry Milk – adds creaminess and richness to the cocoa.
Powdered Sugar – adds some sweetness to the cocoa mix and is easily dissolvable.
Cornstarch – thickens the hot chocolate, making it richer.
Salt – helps control the sweetness and enhances the flavor in the cocoa.
Cinnamon – complements the chocolate and adds a warm note to the cocoa.
Chocolate Chips – intensifies the chocolate flavor and adds richness.
Marshmallows – are a sweet, fluffy topping that adds a touch of vanilla flavor along with extra sweetness.
Baking Tools Needed
Measuring Cups and Spoons – measure ingredients accurately with measuring cups and measuring spoons.
Mixing Bowls – you’ll need some ramekins and mixing bowls for gathering and mixing the dry ingredients.
Strainer – using a strainer to sift the ingredients will break up any lumps and help create a smoother mix.
Whisk – use a whisk to incorporate and mix the ingredients together.
Funnel – using a funnel will make it easier to transfer the mix into containers without spills.
Storage/Packaging – use a food storage container to store cocoa. If making gifts, try large cone-shaped cello bags for individual bags of cocoa or resealable jars for larger amounts of cocoa.
Tips for Hot Chocolate Success
Easily create the perfect hot chocolate and enjoy your homemade cocoa whenever a craving for that warm chocolatey goodness strikes.
- Use good quality ingredients. Better ingredients make a better tasting cup of cocoa. Use high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa powder, milk or cream and pure extracts (if using).
- Sift the cocoa powder. To prevent lumps from forming in your drink, sift the cocoa powder before combining it with other ingredients.
- Use steaming milk. Make your cocoa even richer by using milk. Heat the milk slowly,until it’s steaming but not boiling.
- Whisk your cocoa. Use a small whisk and whisk the cocoa when adding your milk to avoid clumping and to help create a smooth consistency.
Hot Chocolate Steps
Perfectly Flavored Hot Chocolate Variations
Spice up your hot chocolate game by trying a new flavor with one of these suggested flavor variations. Or, try matching your cocoa to a specific flavor you’re looking for to enjoy the perfect hot chocolate each time you have a cup.
- Mexican Hot Chocolate – add a pinch of cinnamon, a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder, and a touch of vanilla extract for a warm, spicy twist.
- Mocha Hot Chocolate – a shot of espresso or strong brewed coffee gives your cocoa a caffeinated kick.
- Orange Hot Chocolate – add orange zest or a few drops of orange extract for a citrusy aroma and flavor.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate – try adding a few drops of peppermint extract or crushed candy cane pieces to your cocoa or as a garnish for a cool, minty flavor.
- Salted Caramel Hot Chocolate – simply add a drizzle of caramel sauce and a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty treat.
- Spiced Hot Chocolate – use warming spices like cardamom, cloves, ginger, and nutmeg in addition to cinnamon.
Elevating Your Cocoa
Creating your own signature cup of hot chocolate that perfectly suits your taste can be as simple as adding one (or a few) different toppings. Which would you add to your cocoa?
- Whipped Cream – a classic topping that adds richness and sweetness.
- Marshmallows – choose from mini, large marshmallows, or even toasted marshmallows – all are delicious options.
- Chocolate Chips or Shavings – add white, milk or dark chocolate chips or shavings for an extra chocolatey flavor.
- Caramel Sauce and/or Chocolate Syrup – add a drizzle of one or both over the top of your cocoa for extra sweetness.
- Cinnamon Sticks – add a touch of festiveness as well as an aromatic touch to your cocoa.
Storing Your Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix
When stored properly, hot chocolate mix will last up to 2 to 3 months.
- Use airtight containers. Transfer your newly made hot chocolate mix to an airtight container. And, make sure your container is completely dry before filling with the mix.
- Label your containers. Don’t forget to label with the date filled or the date you’d like to use the mix by as well as any special instructions.
- Store in a cool, dry place. Store your hot chocolate mix container in a cool, dry place, like your pantry or cupboard. Keep it away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Use cello bags or jars gifting cocoa. Create and store a single serving of cocoa in a cone-shaped cello bag and place in a cup to give as a gift. Or, create a hot chocolate “kit” by placing your homemade cocoa in a resealable jar with small bags of chocolate chips and mini marshmallows.
More Recipes to Check Out
For other homemade treats to give to others, check out these recipes: Homemade Treats for Valentine’s Day or Dipped S’mores Marshmallows. If you try any, give a rating and let me know what you think.
Rich Hot Chocolate
Ingredients
- 1 pouch (91g) instant nonfat dry milk
- 1 cup (114g) powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup (43g) cocoa powder
- 1 tsp (3g) cornstarch
- 1/4 tsp (2g) cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips (optional)
- mini marshmallows
Instructions
Hot Chocolate
- Sift the instant dry milk, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, cornstarch, cinnamon and salt in a large bowl.
- Once sifted, whisk the ingredients until everything is combined well.
- Optional: add about 1 cup or more of mini chocolate chips to your mixture and whisk until combined.
- Store in a dry, airtight container.
- Add marshmallows to mix when preparing.
Individual Hot Chocolate Bags
- Measure out ¼ cup of cocoa mix.
- Use a funnel or carefully spoon mixture into a cone-shaped cellophane bag.
- Add ¼ cup of chocolate chips to the bag.
- Add ¼ cup of mini marshmallows to the top of the chocolate chips (add more or less based on how much room is left in the bag).
- Tie the bag into a knot and add a ribbon.
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