This homemade hot cocoa recipe is the best of the best and will give you the richest and creamiest hot cocoa you’ve ever tasted. It’s sure to become your new go-to recipe for chilly days. With this recipe, you’ll never go back to store-bought powder packets again. I also have a Big Batch of Hot Cocoa Mix you will want to have on hand.
Ingredients & Substitutions
Milk: I prefer whole milk when it comes to this recipe. It has a high-fat content that results in a thicker and richer texture. However, you could use other types of milk like skim milk, or even non-dairy milk alternatives. However, the substitutions could change the taste and texture of the hot cocoa.
Cocoa Powder: Look for high-quality unsweetened cocoa powder. Dutch-processed cocoa powder, which you could also use, will give you a slightly different flavor profile and darker color.
Marshmallows: If you don’t have any on hand, make your own homemade mini marshmallows to use. Adding marshmallows directly to the pan while melting results in amazingly rich and frothy cocoa with a velvety texture.
Can I Make This Crockpot Hot Cocoa?
Absolutely! Just add all ingredients, including the marshmallows to your crockpot. Cook on low for 1-2 hours. I do recommend doubling it for the best crockpot hot cocoa recipe. In fact, this is a great way to serve a big batch of cocoa for guests.
Can I Make Hot Chocolate Ahead of Time?
Yes! Once you get the hot chocolate made, you can store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Store it in an airtight container or glass jar with a lid. When ready to enjoy, reheat it on the stovetop or on low in a slow cooker.
How to Serve Hot Chocolate
Yes, this hot chocolate is the best you will ever sip, but you can even add more to it for more flavors.
- Try it with hazelnut, caramel sauce, cinnamon, or nutmeg.
- For an adult beverage, add a splash of brandy to your mug of hot chocolate.
- Of course, a dollop of whipped cream never hurts. Or, personalize the drink by topping it with whipped cream hearts.
Want More Hot Chocolate Options?
Homemade Hot Chocolate Recipe
Ingredients
- 4 cups (980 g) whole milk
- ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
- ¼ cup (29.5 g) unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups (75 g) miniature marshmallows
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a saucepan combine all ingredients. Cook and stir over medium-low heat until the marshmallows are melted, about 10 minutes. (I actually had mine on the stove for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.)
- Remove from the heat and pour into mugs.
Video
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Yum!! That does sound rich!!!!!!! My kids are always making hot cocoa!!! I will have to try this!!
Just made this for my kiddos and their sleepover buddies and I got rave reviews. I love your recipes!!
Just wanted to let you know that the grand-girls and I made this over the holidays. Ella standing on a stool at the stove, wearing one of my aprons, with an oven mitt on, holding the wooden spoon while she stirred and little Sophie sitting on the counter stirring marshmallows in a plastic cup *pretending* to cook. It was the creamiest and richest hot chocolate we’ve ever had and we loved it. Thank you for helping us make a new Christmas holiday memory with this recipe.
Mmmmm, it’s good! My s 16-year-old son said, This is good! Thanks for the recipe!
This sounds so yummy! I love all your great cooking ideas and creations! And I love that you share on Wednesday nights at youth group! Wink wink!
Oh thats a great idea!! I should totally bring a big pot of it to Youth Group. I think on our fist REALLY cold day it will be a must! 😉
I just made this and OMG is it good. Perfect for a cool morning.
Not only is this recipe brilliant – but my heart was warmed to find a kindred spirit who types “lurve” instead of the plain-jane “love.”
Thanks!
Amanda, is the stated amount of sugar what you use even with the Ghirardelli, or do you cut it back when using that one, since it’s already sweetened?
Oh yes, snack, meal, whatever, it sounds delish.
Nope, I substitute the Ghirardelli directly for the amount of cocoa the recipe calls for. You are right, it does add a LOT of extra sweetness! 🙂
WOW. i wanna make this for my fambam this christmas! btw, does this mean i’ll get four cups of hot cocoa from this recipe? thanks!
I just made a cup and it is AMAZING!!!!