Description

A simple, quick, and creamy hot cocoa mix made from pantry staples that delivers a rich, velvety drink perfect for cozy winter nights.

Ingredients

Scale

1 cup (85g) unsweetened cocoa powder (preferably Dutch-processed)
1 ½ cups (150g) powdered milk (whole milk powder preferred, or coconut/almond milk powder for dairy-free)
1 cup (130g) powdered sugar (confectioners’ sugar or superfine sugar)
¼ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla powder or a few drops vanilla extract (optional)
1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional)

Instructions

Measure 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 ½ cups powdered milk, 1 cup powdered sugar, ¼ teaspoon salt, and if using, 1 teaspoon vanilla powder and 1 teaspoon cornstarch.
Sift together cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and cornstarch into a mixing bowl to avoid lumps.
Add powdered milk and salt; whisk or stir until evenly combined and uniform in texture.
Mix in vanilla powder or vanilla extract if using, stirring well.
Transfer the mix to an airtight jar and label with the date. Store in a cool, dry place.
To prepare a cup, heat 1 cup (240ml) milk (dairy or plant-based) until steaming but not boiling.
Add 3 tablespoons (about 25g) of the hot cocoa mix to the hot milk and whisk vigorously until fully dissolved and creamy.
Adjust sweetness or richness by adding more mix or milk as desired. Optionally add a pinch of cinnamon or peppermint extract.

Notes

Use hot but not boiling milk to avoid grainy or bitter cocoa. Sifting dry ingredients prevents lumps. Store mix in a cool, dry place to avoid clumping. For thicker cocoa, add cornstarch. Customize with spices or sugar substitutes as desired.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Beverage
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup prepared with
Calories: 190
Sugar: 25
Sodium: 150
Fat: 4.5
Saturated Fat: 2.5
Carbohydrates: 30
Fiber: 3
Protein: 7

Keywords: hot cocoa mix, creamy hot chocolate, homemade hot cocoa, winter drink, easy hot cocoa, cozy drink, powdered milk hot cocoa