Hot cocoa is the ultimate cozy treat! It’s sweet, creamy, and perfect for warming up on chilly days. From easy homemade mixes and creative cocoa bombs to chocolatey desserts, these hot cocoa recipes are simple to make and fun to share. I’ve tested each one for flavor, texture, and ease, so every sip (or bite!) turns out perfectly every time.
Hot Cocoa vs. Hot Chocolate
Wondering what makes hot cocoa different? Hot cocoa is made with cocoa powder, resulting in a lighter, sweeter flavor, while hot chocolate is made from real, melted chocolate, yielding a richer, creamier drink. Both are delicious, but if you love something quick, cozy, and easy to mix up, hot cocoa is the way to go!
Homemade & Big-Batch Hot Cocoa Mixes
These make-ahead mixes are perfect for gifting or stocking your pantry. Just add hot milk or water, stir, and sip!
1. Hot Cocoa Mix {Big Batch}
Easy, delicious, and perfect for gift giving! It’s worth having on hand for the cold months ahead!
2. White Hot Chocolate Mix
White Hot Chocolate Mix is a powdery mix made with white chocolate, milk powder, sugar, and salt. Add some to a mug of hot milk or hot water to warm you up on a cold day or as a sweet treat to enjoy!
3. Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa Mix
I love adding a few marshmallows and a dollop of whipped cream to my glass mug and highly recommend you do as well! 😀
4. Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix
Nothing says cozy winter nights like a mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate with a hint of peppermint. This Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix is easy to make ahead, customizable, and perfect for gifting during the holidays!
Hot Cocoa Bombs
Fun, festive, and totally customizable! These cocoa bombs melt beautifully in hot milk for a sweet surprise inside every cup.
5. Hot Chocolate Bombs
Hot Chocolate Bombs are chocolate spheres filled with homemade chocolate milk powder and marshmallows that are put into a mug with hot milk for a delicious cup of hot cocoa. Try my Best Homemade Hot Cocoa for another rich and creamy hot chocolate recipe!
6. Peppermint Hot Cocoa Bombs
Add one to some hot milk for a peppermint hot chocolate to warm you up on a cold day!
7. Snickerdoodle Hot Cocoa Bombs
Snickerdoodle Hot Cocoa Bombs are cinnamon-spiced white chocolate spheres filled with hot cocoa mix, mini marshmallows, and more cinnamon!
8. Easter Hot Chocolate Bombs
Easter Hot Chocolate Bombs are white chocolate eggs filled with chocolate malted milk powder and marshmallows that are put into a mug with hot milk for a delicious cup of hot cocoa!
Hot Cocoa-Inspired Desserts
Bring all the flavor of your favorite winter drink into these cozy desserts. Perfect for holiday parties or edible gifts!
9. Hot Cocoa Fudge
10. Hot Cocoa Christmas Crack
FAQs
Can I make hot cocoa dairy-free?
Yes! Use your favorite non-dairy milk and a dairy-free cocoa mix for an easy vegan version.
How long does a homemade hot cocoa mix last?
When stored in an airtight container at room temperature, it will keep for several months, but it’s best enjoyed within 2 months for the freshest flavor.
What’s the best way to use cocoa bombs?
Place a cocoa bomb in a mug, pour hot milk over it, and stir as it melts for a perfectly creamy cup of cocoa.
What’s the difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate?
Hot cocoa uses cocoa powder for a light, sweet drink, while hot chocolate uses real melted chocolate for a richer, creamier cup.
Tips for Perfect Hot Cocoa
- Use hot milk instead of water for a creamier drink.
- Mix in a pinch of salt or cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Store homemade cocoa mix in airtight jars. It will last for several months, but is best enjoyed within 2 months for peak flavor.
- Gift cocoa bombs or mix in festive jars tied with ribbon for easy holiday treats.
Serving Ideas & Pairings
Serve with marshmallows, whipped cream, or crushed candy canes on top. Pair with cookies or brownies for a cozy winter treat.
From festive cocoa bombs to make-ahead mixes and easy desserts, these hot cocoa recipes are simple, sweet, and perfect for sharing. Mix up a batch, pour a cup, and enjoy every chocolatey sip!
