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Ultimate Creamy, Big Batch Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix (Customizable & Gift-Ready)

Close-up of a mug filled with rich, dark chocolate from hot cocoa mix, topped with coarse white sugar crystals.

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Whip up this easy, no-cook recipe for rich, velvety hot cocoa mix using simple pantry staples. This big batch recipe tastes better than store-bought and is perfect for gifting or keeping stocked for cozy winter beverages.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 cups granulated sugar
  • 2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder (natural or Dutch-process)
  • 1 cup non-fat dry milk powder (optional, omit for dairy-free)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for flavor depth)

Instructions

  1. Gather all your ingredients. Since this is a no-cook cocoa mix, you only need a large bowl and a whisk.
  2. In a very large bowl, combine the granulated sugar and the unsweetened cocoa powder. Whisk these two ingredients together thoroughly until no lumps remain. This step is important for a smooth final product.
  3. If you are including dry milk powder, add it to the bowl now along with the salt and cinnamon, if using.
  4. Whisk the entire mixture again for at least two full minutes. You want the dry milk powder (if used) and cocoa powder to be completely incorporated into the sugar for a uniform, rich color.
  5. Transfer the finished hot cocoa mix to airtight containers. This bulk recipe stores well in a pantry for several months.
  6. To prepare one serving, mix 1/3 cup of the dry mix with 1 cup of hot milk or hot water. Whisk until smooth and enjoy your cozy drink.

Notes

  • For a richer, creamier cup, use hot milk instead of water when preparing the drink.
  • If you skip the dry milk powder, the mix will still be delicious, but you must use milk when preparing the beverage for creaminess.
  • To make this a great chocolate gift in a jar, layer the dry mix with mini marshmallows and tie a ribbon around the jar.
  • Adjust the sugar amount up or down by 1/4 cup to suit your preferred sweetness level.

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