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

Scale

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