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 for cups of hot 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 (like a mason jar). 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.
- Add a candy cane to your mug of hot cocoa for a hint of peppermint flavor.
- Blend chocolate chips (I like dark chocolate chips) into your cup of hot cocoa for a more indulgent sippable treat.
- Brew a shot of espresso and stir it into your prepared hot chocolate. Adjust the amount of espresso to suit your taste, whether you prefer a mild or stronger coffee flavor. (I like it strong!) Top it with whipped cream or a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an extra treat!
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
Did you make this recipe?
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This is literally just the recipe from the side of the Hershey’s unsweetened cocoa container.
Except without marshmallows in the pan, which then makes it different. 🤨
Do you have a dry mix recipe for gift giving?
As soon as I saw this recipe, I made it! I’m a hot cocoa enthusiast, and I am always trying to find the best recipe possible. I was very disappointed. I love the “Favorite Hot Cocoa” recipe on the back of the Hershey’s Cocoa box, and have experimented with different brands and kinds of cocoa. I think I’m disappointed, because I taste all the chemicals in the marshmallows or something. It’s a little too sweet and not enough chocolate flavor for me. My son even said that it tasted similar to Swiss Miss.
I get the frothiness from adding freshly whipped cream to the top of our hot cocoa. My kids stir it in, then you get pure heaven! Thanks for the recipe!
Yes, if you don’t like store bought marshmallows then you will not like this recipe… it’s an important ingredient! And yes, those marshmallows do make it extra sweet. VERY sweet. We love it, but tastes will differ. 🙂
I have actually use the same recipe for years the only difference is a pinch of salt it makes a world of difference.
I also simmer a couple of cardamom sees with the cinnamon. It gives a subtle flavour but obvs you don’t have to.
Also, I have been making my own marshmallows. It’s much easier than it sounds and you can add natural flavours. They are truly delicious and I don’t think I could go back to the shop marshmallows now.
Dear Amanda.
Thank you for the great recipes you are sharing with us.
I want to bake a simple caramel cake for my birthday which is on the 6th of November. Do you have a simple recipe that you can share with me?
Kind regards
Griffith. South Africa
Love love your recipes God bless you and your family
It’s not sweetened cocoa…Hershey’s or Godiva unsweetened you add the sugar.
Looks like fun and great hot chcolate
Husband tried some of mine 🤔 dumped he’s coffee out and grabbed his own cup 😂❤️ Thank you for sharing ❤️❤️
<3