There’s something magical about cozying up by the fireplace with a steaming mug of rich, creamy hot chocolate—especially when it’s made from your own homemade hot cocoa mix!
This simple, yet delicious recipe uses just cocoa powder, sugar, and a pinch of salt, but the result is pure comfort in a cup.

Don’t forget to check out the video below in the FAQ section to watch how we made it step-by-step!
Ruby Ann and I have been perfecting this simple recipe for holiday gift-giving and to enjoy ourselves during those cozy nights.
The rich cocoa powder gives it a deep chocolate flavor, while the sugar balances it out with just the right amount of sweetness. The hint of salt enhances the flavors, making each sip irresistible. It’s the kind of mix that’s perfect for stirring into hot milk (or non-dairy milk for a vegan option) for a creamy, comforting treat.
Whether you’re sharing it with friends as a thoughtful homemade gift or enjoying a warm cup by the fire, this hot cocoa mix brings a bit of extra warmth and sweetness to chilly winter nights. Trust me, once you make this, you’ll never go back to store-bought!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
Simple Ingredients: This homemade hot chocolate mix uses simple ingredients like dark cocoa powder, powdered milk, and coconut sugar. You can find everything you need at your local grocery store.
Easy to Make: Just mix everything in a large bowl, and you’re done! You can store your homemade mix in an airtight container or a mason jar, and it will be ready whenever you want a cup of hot cocoa.
Customizable Sweetness: You can make your hot cocoa mix just how you like it. Add more or less sugar, or even try using white sugar or coconut sugar for different tastes.
Long Shelf Life: Your dry mix will stay fresh for months if you store it in a cool, dry place. Just keep it in an airtight container or mason jar, and you’ll have your hot chocolate fix whenever you need it.
Toppings Galore: From mini marshmallows to white chocolate chips, the toppings you can add to your hot cocoa are endless. Make it extra special with some homemade marshmallows or a sprinkle of sea salt.

Tips On How To Make Hot Chocolate Mix
- Use a Food Processor: To make your hot cocoa mix super fine, try blending it in a food processor. This will help the ingredients mix better when you add hot milk or hot water.
- Try Different Cocoa Powders: Dutch-processed cocoa powder gives a richer flavor, while regular unsweetened cocoa powder works great too. You can even mix in some dark cocoa powder for a deeper taste.
- Adjust Sweetness: Customize your mix by adding more or less coconut sugar, white sugar, or even using dark chocolate chips.
- Experiment with Milk: You can use hot milk, almond milk, or even non-dairy milk like coconut milk. Each one gives a different flavor to your hot cocoa.
- Add a Pinch of Salt: A tiny bit of fine salt can really enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Spice It Up: Mix in some vanilla bean powder, cinnamon, or peppermint extract to make your own unique blend.
- Serve with Toppings: Top your mug of hot cocoa with whipped cream, mini marshmallows, or crushed candy canes for a festive touch.
- Store Properly: Keep your homemade cocoa mix in an airtight container or mason jar. It will stay fresh in a cool, dry place for up to six months.

FAQ
What is Hot Cocoa Mix?
Hot cocoa mix is a powdered blend of cocoa powder, sugar, and sometimes milk powder or other flavorings. You just need to add hot milk or hot water to make a delicious, creamy drink.
How Do I Make Hot Cocoa Mix?
Ruby Ann and I made this homemade hot cocoa mix by mixing dark cocoa powder, powdered milk, coconut sugar, and a pinch of fine salt. We stored it in mason jars to keep it fresh. You can see how we did it in the video below!
How Do I Use Hot Cocoa Mix?
To enjoy a cup of cocoa, add 2-3 tablespoons of your homemade mix to a mug. Pour in some hot milk or hot water, and stir until it’s all mixed together. Top with your favorite toppings like marshmallows or whipped cream.
Can I Customize the Cocoa Mix?
Yes! You can make this mix your own by adding vanilla powder, crushed candy canes, or even mini chocolate chips. The possibilities are endless!
Is Hot Chocolate Mix Healthy?
Hot cocoa can have a lot of sugar, but you can make it healthier by using nonfat dry milk powder, dark cocoa powder, and reducing the sugar. Just be mindful of your calorie diet and adjust the sweetness to your taste.
Tools you may need
- Glass Bowl: Perfect for mixing up your ingredients.
- Food Processor: To get a fine powder consistency.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measuring.
- Mason Jar: A great way to store your mix.
- Whisk: Helps blend the mix well.
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Ingredients you will need
Sugar: Sugar is a common sweetener used in hot cocoa mix recipes. It adds sweetness and balances the bitterness of cocoa powder.
Cocoa Powder: Cocoa powder is the main ingredient of this mix. It provides a rich chocolate flavor and color.
Salt: Salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients in the hot cocoa mix. It also helps to balance the sweetness and bitterness.
How To Make Hot Cocoa Mix
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, add the dark cocoa powder, coconut sugar, powdered milk, and a pinch of fine salt.
Step 2: Blend the Mixture
Mix the ingredients until they are well combined. If you prefer a super fine powder, process the mixture in a food processor.
Step 3: Store the Mix
Transfer the homemade hot cocoa mix into a mason jar or an airtight container. Store it in a cool, dry place to keep it fresh.
Step 4: Serve
To enjoy, stir 2-3 tablespoons of the cocoa mix into a mug of hot milk. For a vegan option, use almond milk or any other non-dairy milk.
Enjoy your warm mug of hot cocoa!

Storage Ideas
Storing your hot chocolate mix properly can make a big difference in how long it lasts and how fresh it stays. Here are some storage ideas for the cocoa mix:
- Airtight container: Store your hot cocoa mix in an airtight container to prevent moisture and air from reaching it. This will help the mix retain its freshness and flavor.
- Mason jar: Mason jars are a great option for storing hot chocolate mix. They have an airtight seal and are easy to clean. Plus, they look cute on your kitchen shelf!
- Ziplock bag: If you don’t have an airtight container on hand, a ziplock bag can work just as well. Make sure to squeeze out as much air as possible before sealing the bag.
- Cool, dry place: Store your hot chocolate mix in a cool, dry place such as your pantry or a kitchen cabinet. Avoid storing it near a heat source or in direct sunlight.

Topping Ideas
There are so many delicious toppings that can take your hot cocoa to the next level. Here are some ideas to try:
- Whipped cream: A classic topping for hot cocoa, whipped cream adds a creamy and sweet touch.
- Marshmallows: Soft and fluffy marshmallows are a must-have topping for any hot cocoa lover.
- Cinnamon: A sprinkle of cinnamon adds a warm and cozy flavor to your hot cocoa.
- Chocolate shavings: For the ultimate chocolate lover, top your hot cocoa with some chocolate shavings for an extra-rich flavor.
- Peppermint: Crushed candy canes or peppermint extract can add a refreshing and festive twist to your hot cocoa.
- Caramel sauce: Drizzle some caramel sauce over your hot cocoa for a sweet and indulgent topping.
- Nutella: A spoonful of Nutella melted into your hot cocoa will create a deliciously rich and creamy drink.
These are just a few ideas to get you started.
Don’t be afraid to get creative and try out different toppings to find your perfect hot cocoa combination!
For even more delicious, homemade treats, explore our favorite cozy recipes below;
- Hot Mulled Apple Cider Recipe (how to make + video)
- Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls Recipe (discard or starter)
- Classic Spritz Cookies Recipe (how to make + video)
- Homemade Vanilla Marshmallows Recipe (how to make)
If you try this homemade hot cocoa mix recipe, don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @themoderndaycottage and share your creation! And if you love it as much as we do, give us a five-star rating. We appreciate it!

Hot Cocoa Mix
Easy-to-follow hot cocoa mix recipe is perfect for quick and satisfying chocolate cravings. Experience the rich and creamy taste of our homemade mix that you won't find anywhere else.
Ingredients
- 3 1/2 cups sugar
- 2 1/4 cups cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt.
- Mix all the ingredients until well combined.
- Store the mixture in an airtight container until ready to use.
- To serve, stir two tablespoons of the hot cocoa mix into 8 oz of warm milk.
- Enjoy your delicious homemade hot cocoa!
Notes
- Use high-quality cocoa powder for a rich chocolate flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more or less sugar.
- Experiment with different types of milk, such as whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk, for different flavors.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.
- Customize your hot cocoa mix by adding spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg.
- Use a whisk to ensure that the mix is well combined with the milk or water.
- Serve with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings for a decadent treat.
- Store the mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to six months.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 45 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 77Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 141mgCarbohydrates: 18gFiber: 1gSugar: 16gProtein: 1g
“The Modern Day Cottage” are not dietitians or nutritionists, and any nutritional information shared is an estimate. If calorie count and other nutritional values are important to you, we recommend running the ingredients through whichever online nutritional calculator you prefer. Calories can vary quite a bit depending on which brands were used.
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