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Big Batch Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix: The Ultimate DIY Giftable Recipe

Close-up of a mound of rich brown hot cocoa mix powder, dramatically lit.
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Whip up this big batch of homemade hot cocoa mix using simple pantry staples for a rich, velvety chocolate drink. It is perfect for stocking your pantry or creating thoughtful holiday gifts.

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

  1. Gather all your dry ingredients: sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk (if using), salt, and instant espresso powder (if using).
  2. In a very large bowl, combine the sugar and cocoa powder first. Whisk them together thoroughly to break up any lumps in the cocoa.
  3. Add the powdered milk, salt, and espresso powder to the bowl.
  4. Whisk all ingredients together for at least two minutes. You need to mix well to distribute the salt and cocoa evenly throughout the sugar, which ensures a consistent flavor in every cup.
  5. Transfer the finished big batch hot cocoa mix to clean, airtight containers for storage. This mix is ready to use immediately.

Notes

  • To make one serving, mix 1/4 cup of the dry mix with 1 cup of hot milk or hot water. Stir until completely dissolved.
  • For a richer, creamier beverage, use whole milk or half-and-half instead of water.
  • To prepare this as a hot cocoa mix in a jar gift, layer the dry mix in a clean mason jar and top with mini marshmallows or chocolate chips. Attach a tag with the preparation instructions.
  • If you omit the powdered milk, the mix will still create a delicious drink when mixed with hot milk, but it will not have the same creamy texture as mixes containing milk solids.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/big-batch-homemade-hot-cocoa-mix/