There’s nothing quite as comforting as a steaming mug of rich hot cocoa on a chilly day—and this big batch homemade hot cocoa mix makes it easy to enjoy that cozy feeling anytime. Made with a blend of confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and powdered milk, this dry mix stirs right into hot water or milk for a smooth, chocolatey treat. Keep a jar ready for snow days, holiday gatherings, or whenever the craving hits!
Want to level up your cocoa game? Try this mix with Peppermint Hot Cocoa Bombs or check out our White Hot Chocolate Mix for a fun twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & Easy: Just measure, mix, and store!
- Shelf-Stable: Keeps for up to a year in your pantry.
- Customizable: Add more sugar, spices, or flavorings to make it your own.
- Budget-Friendly: Cheaper and tastier than store-bought packets.
- Perfect for Gifting: Package it in a jar with mini marshmallows for a sweet homemade gift.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (250g) confectioners’ sugar – Dissolves easily for a smooth texture.
- 1 cup (118g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder – Deep, rich chocolate flavor.
- 2½ cups (250g) powdered milk – Adds creaminess and body.
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch – Helps thicken for a silky texture.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
Optional for Serving:
- Mini marshmallows
- Hot water, milk, or even coffee
How to Make Hot Cocoa Mix
- Combine Ingredients:
In a large bowl, whisk together the confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, powdered milk, cornstarch, and salt until evenly mixed. - Store:
Transfer the mix to an airtight container. It will keep in a cool, dry place for up to 1 year.
How Much Does It Make?
This recipe yields about 4½ cups of dry mix, which is enough to make roughly 18 cups of hot cocoa (using ¼ cup of mix per serving).
How to Make a Mug of Hot Cocoa
- Scoop ¼ cup of mix into a mug.
- Add hot water or milk (about 8 ounces).
- Stir until fully dissolved.
- Top with mini marshmallows, if desired.
- Sip, relax, and enjoy!
Milk or Water?
Both work great!
- Hot water makes a lighter, less rich cocoa.
- Hot milk gives you a creamier, more indulgent drink.
- Want to switch things up? Try using hot coffee for a mocha vibe or chocolate milk for extra decadence.
What’s the Difference Between Hot Cocoa and Hot Chocolate?
While the terms are often used interchangeably, there’s a subtle difference:
- Hot cocoa is typically made from cocoa powder (like this mix).
- Hot chocolate usually starts with melted chocolate bars or chips, making it thicker and richer.
Either way, both are delicious—and both deserve marshmallows!
Storage Tips
Store your cocoa mix in a sealed jar or airtight container in a cool, dry place. It stays fresh for up to 12 months, though the flavor is best enjoyed within the first few months.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
Customize your cocoa mix with:
- Cinnamon or pumpkin spice
- Crushed peppermint candies
- Vanilla bean powder
- Instant espresso for a mocha twist
Printable Recipe
Hot Cocoa Mix (Big Batch)
📌 Prep Time: 5 minutes
📌 Makes: About 4½ cups of mix (~18 servings)
📌 Store: Airtight container in a cool, dry place
Ingredients:
- 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2½ cups powdered milk
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions:
- Whisk all ingredients together in a large mixing bowl.
- Store in an airtight container for up to 1 year.
- To serve, stir ¼ cup mix into 1 cup hot water or milk until dissolved. Add marshmallows if desired.
Tip: Prefer a sweeter mix? Add up to 2 more cups of confectioners’ sugar for a lighter, more kid-friendly flavor. Be sure to use a larger container!