This Big Batch Hot Cocoa Mix is a powdery mix made with sugar, cocoa powder, and powdered milk that will be your go-to when it comes to mixing with hot water or milk. It’s worth having on hand for the cold months ahead. Be sure to check out my stovetop Hot Chocolate, too!
Hot Cocoa Mix {Big Batch}
Nothing warms a body up like a mug of rich hot cocoa, especially in the winter. And, it’s a beverage that can be enjoyed by all ages. When you can make your own mix like this one inspired by Food Network’s Alton Brown, it even tastes better! Plus, you know exactly what is going into the powdery mix with no added preservatives. Try adding this to Peppermint Hot Cocoa Bombs. I also have a big batch of White Hot Chocolate Mix, too!
Ingredients & Substitutions
Sugar: Use confectioners’ sugar (also known as icing sugar or powdered sugar) in the mix. It will dissolve much easier than coarser kinds of sugar.
Cocoa Powder: I prefer Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a slightly darker color and smoother chocolate flavor. However, you could use regular unsweetened cocoa powder.
Powdered Milk: Powdered milk is evaporated milk with a longer shelf life when compared to liquid milk. It is also called milk powder or dry (dried) milk.
Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the cocoa powder will give the hot cocoa a creamier consistency.
Salt: Yes, salt is an important ingredient that should not be left out. Salt actually enhances the sweetness of the mix while bringing out more chocolate flavor.
How Much Does the Mix Make?
The dry mix makes about 4 1/2 cups of powder. The amount of servings you will have is dependent on the size of the mug you are using and how much chocolate flavor you are craving. I would recommend starting with 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup powder. If you add about 1/4 cup of hot cocoa mix to a cup of hot water or hot milk, you will have enough mix to make about 18 cups of hot cocoa.
Can I Add Milk to Hot Cocoa Mix?
Sure! In fact, we had a couple of taste testers that preferred to add hot milk to the mix. But, both hot water and hot milk are delicious when added. Try adding hot coffee or even chocolate milk as additional options.
What is the Difference Between Hot Cocoa and Hot Chocolate?
Although both hot cocoa and hot chocolate are popular cold-weather drinks, there is a slight difference between the two. Hot cocoa is usually made from a powdery mix, blended with hot water or milk. On the other hand, hot chocolate is generally chocolate that has been melted in hot liquid. So, most of the mix you buy from the store is hot cocoa. Of course, marshmallows can be added to both.
How to Store Hot Cocoa Mix
This is a big batch of hot cocoa mix, so be sure to keep it handy for when you are craving a mug of hot cocoa. The mix can be stored in a cool dry place for up to a year when properly stored. It may lose some of the flavors the longer it is stored, so it’s best if you can enjoy it within that time.
Want More Hot Chocolate Options?
Hot Cocoa Mix {Big Batch}
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl I like using these glass bowls!
- Airtight container For long-term storage
- Serving glasses These glass coffee mugs look great!
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners' sugar
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 ½ cups (250 g) powdered milk
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
For Serving
- mini marshmallows, optional
- hot water (or milk)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, add the confectioners' sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk, cornstarch, and salt. Whisk together to combine.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container for up to a year. This will make 4½ cups of hot cocoa mix, or enough for about 18 cups of hot cocoa.
Making a Cup of Hot Cocoa
- When making a cup of hot cocoa, use about ¼ of a cup of powder per cup of hot water or milk, or adjust to taste preference.
- Top the powder with ¼ cup of mini marshmallows if adding.
- Pour hot liquid over the cocoa powder, stirring until the powder has dissolved. Enjoy!
Video
Did you make this recipe?
Thank you for making my recipe! You took pictures, right? Well go ahead and post them on Instagram! Be sure to mention me @iambaker and use the hashtag #YouAreBaker.
Thank you so much , this is ideal much better than store bought again many thanks 🙏
this is a handy recipe, thank you
Best mix I’ve tried so far, but still need sone additions. After making the original recipe I made a cup of hot chocolate. It needed vanilla for sure, also added nutmeg and cinnamon. But it’s definitely a good base to work from. Thank you.
I’m so going to make this to put on my Christmas trays I make. Amaretto fudge and truffles, Rum balls and fudge, Rice krispie treats, cookies, sugar cookies, brownies, Reindeer poop and Rosettes. Now it will include your wonderful homemade hot chocolate for all the kids.
Edith,
Do you know if there is such a thing as dry vanilla product to add to the premade recipe?
There is a vanilla powder we used at a coffee shop I worked at. I can’t recall the brand but it is definitely a thing.
Yes, there is a vanilla powder. I have bought it at sprouts in those spice bins.
I’ve probably already commented here before, but since it’s Christmas in July I thought I’d post again. I put this mix in pretty thrifted jars that I decorate with ribbons etc and hang a recipe card as well (include the incredible expiration date too!). I also add a few peppermint stick stirrers and a little bag of mini marshmallows. It all goes into a basket with a Christmas card to friends and neighbors!
It’s always so well received and it really is delicious! Keep a big jar on hand for yourself!
PS: you can add some Godiva Chocolate or vanilla liquor for an adult hot cocoa cocktail!
I love this recipe. Great hot chocolate and a great add to my coffee.
Do you have a diabetic hot chocolate recipe
i’m thinking your big issue is the powdered sugar. they do make powdered monk fruit sugar. i have some but haven’t used it yet. hope it helps!
I use Splenda Monk Fruit in place of the sugar (1-to-1 replacement).
I also use whole fat powdered milk–Nido (Nestlé).
Great recipe!
My daughter loves it!
Looks great. I can’t wait to try it. Do you use whole fat powdered milk or nonfat?
I prefer whole fat but either works.