Make winter magic in a mug! This big-batch hot cocoa mix is rich, creamy, and perfect for gifting or sipping by the fire — just add hot milk or water.

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📝 Description

There’s nothing quite like a steaming cup of hot cocoa on a chilly day, and with this homemade big-batch hot cocoa mix, you can make that joy available anytime. It’s richer and creamier than store-bought options, with real powdered milk, deep cocoa flavor, and just the right amount of sweetness.

Perfect for holiday gifts, snow days, cozy nights in, or dessert bars, this mix stores beautifully and makes it easy to serve hot cocoa to a crowd — no mess, no stress. Keep a jar in your pantry and you're just a scoop away from a cup of comfort.

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🧂 Ingredients (U.S. Standard Measurements)

• 4 cups dry milk powder (nonfat or whole)
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 2 cups unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ cups powdered non-dairy creamer (plain or flavored like French vanilla)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch (optional – makes it extra creamy)
• 1 ½ cups mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate (optional, for richness)
• Optional: 1 cup mini marshmallows (for topping)

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🍳 Instructions

1. Mix

In a very large bowl, whisk together dry milk powder, powdered sugar, cocoa powder, powdered creamer, salt, and cornstarch (if using). Stir in chocolate chips and marshmallows if desired.

2. Store

Transfer the mix to airtight containers or jars. Store in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months.

3. To Serve

Scoop ¼ cup of mix into a mug. Add 8–10 oz of hot water or hot milk, stir until smooth, and enjoy!

📝 Tip: Use hot milk for a richer, creamier cup of cocoa.

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☕ Serving Suggestions

• Top with whipped cream or extra marshmallows
• Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
• Stir with a candy cane for a peppermint twist
• Drizzle with caramel for a decadent treat
• Serve alongside cookies, biscotti, or shortbread

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🔁 Variations (From Me!)

🍫 Mexican Hot Chocolate Mix

Add 1 tablespoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper, and 1 teaspoon vanilla powder for a bold, spiced twist on the classic cocoa.

🍂 Pumpkin Spice Cocoa

Swap plain creamer for pumpkin spice-flavored creamer and add 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice to the dry mix. Perfect for fall!

🎁 Holiday Gift Idea

Spoon the mix into mason jars, tie with a ribbon and include a tag with serving instructions. Great for teacher gifts, neighbors, or party favors!

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🔢 Nutrition Facts (Per 1 serving, approx. ¼ cup mix)

• Calories: 160
• Fat: 5g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Sugar: 20g
• Protein: 2g
• Sodium: 100mg

(Will vary depending on added chocolate and type of milk used.)

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🧠 Tips & Tricks

• Sift the cocoa powder before mixing to avoid clumps.
• Use Dutch-processed cocoa for a deeper, smoother chocolate flavor.
• Make individual portions in snack bags for grab-and-go treats.
• Use flavored creamers (hazelnut, peppermint, etc.) to create unique blends.