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Hot chocolate is a beloved staple in my household during the colder months. To keep up with my kids' constant cravings, I created this easy and budget-friendly homemade hot chocolate mix. It's delicious, simple to make, and ensures I always have a warm, comforting treat ready to go.
A Winter Essential
After years of buying expensive store-bought mixes I discovered making my own hot chocolate was not only more economical but so much more delicious. The joy on my children's faces when they come in from playing in the snow knowing there's always hot cocoa ready makes all the difference. Plus I love knowing exactly what goes into our cozy cups.
What You'll Need
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the mix perfectly, balancing the rich cocoa flavor.
- Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Provides a deep, chocolatey base for the hot cocoa.
- Powdered Milk: Adds creaminess and makes the mix shelf-stable for months.
- Salt: Optional but enhances the cocoa's flavor depth.
Let's Make It Together
- Combine Ingredients
- Mix sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk, and salt in a mason jar or bowl. Shake or stir until well combined.
- Make Hot Chocolate
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of the mix to a cup of hot water or milk. Stir until fully dissolved and enjoy.
- Store for Later
- Keep in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Making It Special
Over time I've learned little tricks to make each cup extra special. Sometimes I'll add a pinch of cinnamon or a drop of vanilla extract to the mix. My kids love when I top their cups with a mountain of mini marshmallows or a dollop of whipped cream. During the holidays we stir it with candy canes for a festive peppermint twist.
Sharing the Warmth
This mix makes such wonderful gifts especially during the holiday season. I love packaging it in pretty mason jars with ribbons and handwritten labels. Sometimes I'll create little hot chocolate gift baskets with mugs marshmallows and cookies. It's a heartwarming way to share comfort and joy with friends and family.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why add powdered milk to the mix?
- Powdered milk makes the hot chocolate extra creamy and rich when prepared, creating a more satisfying drink.
- → Can I use granulated or powdered sugar?
- Either granulated or powdered sugar works well in this recipe. Choose based on your preference for texture.
- → How much mix should I use per cup?
- Use 1-2 tablespoons of mix per cup of hot water, adjusting to taste for desired richness.
- → How long does the mix keep?
- Stored in an airtight container like a mason jar, the mix will keep well due to its dry ingredients.
- → Is the salt necessary?
- Salt is optional but can enhance the chocolate flavor by balancing the sweetness. You can omit it if preferred.