Big Batch Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
Introduction
This big batch hot cocoa mix is a simple and delicious way to enjoy cozy, homemade hot chocolate anytime. With easy-to-find ingredients and no cooking required, it’s perfect for gifting or stocking your pantry for chilly days.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners’ sugar*
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 ½ cups (250 g) powdered milk
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Mini marshmallows (optional)
- Hot water or milk (for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk, cornstarch, and kosher salt.
- Step 2: Whisk all the ingredients together until evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container for storage.
- Step 4: To make a cup of hot cocoa, add about ¼ cup of the mix to a mug.
- Step 5: Top the mix with ¼ cup of mini marshmallows if using.
- Step 6: Pour hot water or milk over the powder and marshmallows, then stir until fully dissolved.
- Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy your comforting hot cocoa.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer flavor, use milk instead of water when preparing your hot cocoa.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of vanilla extract for a warming twist.
- Swap kosher salt for fine sea salt if preferred.
- Use this mix as a base for homemade hot chocolate bombs or to make hot chocolate stouts for an adult treat.
Storage
Store the hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to one year. To reheat prepared cocoa, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring well before drinking.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
Yes, but the flavor and color may be slightly different since Dutch-processed cocoa is less acidic and milder. Adjust sweetness if needed.
How much mix should I use per cup of liquid?
Use about ¼ cup of hot cocoa mix per 1 cup of hot water or milk, adjusting to your taste preference for sweetness and richness.
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Big Batch Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4½ cups of hot cocoa mix (about 18 servings) 1x
Description
This Big Batch Hot Cocoa Mix recipe is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy rich, creamy hot chocolate anytime. Made with simple pantry staples like confectioners’ sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa, powdered milk, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt, this mix stores well and prepares quickly, making it perfect for cozy winter nights or entertaining guests. Customize each cup with hot water or milk and optional mini marshmallows for a comforting treat.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 ½ cups (250 g) powdered milk
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Optional Toppings
- ¼ cup mini marshmallows per cup of hot cocoa (optional)
Liquids for Serving
- Hot water or hot milk, about ¼ cup cocoa mix per cup of liquid
Instructions
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, powdered milk, cornstarch, and kosher salt until thoroughly blended and uniform in color.
- Store Mix: Transfer the combined cocoa mix to an airtight container and store it in a cool, dry place. The mix will keep for up to one year, making approximately 4½ cups total, enough for about 18 servings of hot cocoa.
- Prepare Hot Cocoa: To make a cup of hot cocoa, add about ¼ cup of the hot cocoa mix to a mug. Adjust the amount of mix based on your desired chocolate intensity.
- Add Marshmallows (Optional): Top the dry hot cocoa mix with ¼ cup of mini marshmallows if desired, for added sweetness and texture.
- Pour Hot Liquid: Pour hot water or hot milk over the cocoa mix and marshmallows. Stir well until all the powder has dissolved completely and the drink is smooth.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately while hot for a cozy and comforting beverage. Customize with additional toppings or adjust sweetness to taste.
Notes
- Using Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives a smoother, less acidic flavor than natural cocoa powder.
- Cornstarch helps thicken the hot cocoa slightly for a creamier mouthfeel.
- Powdered milk is essential for creaminess and helps create the classic hot chocolate taste without needing fresh milk.
- Store the mix in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness and prevent clumping.
- Adjust sweetness and chocolate intensity by altering the ratio of mix to liquid when preparing a cup.
- For a richer drink, use hot milk instead of water.
- Optional mini marshmallows add texture and extra sweetness but can be omitted for a lower sugar option.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: hot cocoa mix, homemade hot chocolate, big batch cocoa, winter drink, powdered hot chocolate
