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}
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners' sugar
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 ½ cups (170 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.
Could I use Splenda instead of the sugar?
I livein a independent/senior living apartment I havent made this particular recipe but this sounds better than the recipe I have used in the past. Thinking of making gifts for my neighbors here.
I think it will make great Christmas gifts next year.
Is there a difference between “Dutch Process powder” and Hershey’s cocoa powder? If so, would Hershey’s be ok to use?
I answered that in the post. 🙂
Any substitutes for cornstarch? We have a corn allergy & try to minimize obvious corn products(I am aware there is a scant amount of corn in the confectioners’ sugar).
Thanks:)
Tapioca starch
There’s tapioca confectioner’s sugar now, if your allergy ever progresses. It’s usually more expensive, but exists.
Brand: Wholesome
‘Organic Powdered Sugar’
Check the ingredients label because that brand has many sugar options.
I only tell you in case you find yourself in my boat in a few years. Mine was a slow-starter, too. 😉
I have a similar recipe and an ingredient that just takes it to another level is chilli powder. I put a teaspoon in, but start at a half teaspoon and see how hot you like it!
Adding chili powder is called Mexican Hot Chocolate. Used to get it in Mexico – very good!
Would be interested in making this hot cocoa for about 10 gallons of cocoa
I have D’s Sweet Bakery Lillian Al and we love!!! making your delights. Thank you for your time, creativity and support. You’re amazing. Thank you, D~
Why does this have cornstarch in it?
This is what I wrote in the post:
Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the cocoa powder will give the hot cocoa a creamier consistency.
Any particular brand of powered milk you prefer/recommend to use??? Seems to me each time I use powered milk it always tastes unusual…not like when using whole milk…..maybe/possibly I’m just super sensitive to tastes…ðŸ¤
Also need a sugar free option. Thinking of making the recipe minus the confectioners sugar and then adding the artificial sweetener to the prepared cocoa. Thoughts and suggestions?
Hi Nichol – I am not a sugar-free baker so don’t provide that variation with my recipes. You are welcome to search for a sugar-free baker and see if their recipes meet your wants.
I don’t use sugar in hot beverages, I enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, tea etc without any sugar or sweetener. However you can add sweetener to the end product as per your liking it should be fine. You won’t know unless you try it.