Easy DIY Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

Say goodbye to store-bought cocoa mix; this do-it-yourself version is made with ingredients you likely already have at home, and the result is delightfully chocolatey and smooth.

April 19, 2021 By Jessyca Sortillon

Make this easy recipe for hot cocoa mix ahead of time and store it in an airtight container for when you need it. It’s perfect for when you need a little something sweet and warm to sip on around your backyard fire pit.

Yield: 8 cups
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 cup cocoa powder
1/2 cup sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
Dash of salt
8 cups whole milk
Mini marshmallows (optional)
Alcohol to make it boozy (optional)

Directions:

Mix the dry ingredients (cocoa powder, sugar, cinnamon, and salt) together and store the mix in an airtight container or zip-topped bag.
When you are ready to make the hot cocoa, heat whole milk in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently. You can substitute the whole milk for 2% if needed, but the end result will be less creamy.
Once the milk has heated through, add homemade cocoa mix and stir until dissolved.
Carefully pour hot cocoa from the saucepan into your favorite camping mug or into a large 64-ounce container, such as the Stanley Classic Easy-Pour Growler, for sharing around the fire pit. Top each cup of hot cocoa with mini marshmallows if desired.

Stanley’s Classic Easy-Pour Growler will hold up to 64 ounces of hot cocoa and keep it hot for hours. (Photo courtesy of Stanley)
To make your hot cocoa boozy, add ½ to 1 ounce of alcohol of your choice. Get creative when making your spiked hot cocoa! Lots of spirits taste delicious with chocolate. Not sure where to start? Here are a few tasty options to try: vanilla vodka, whipped vodka, coffee liquor, whiskey, or peppermint schnapps.

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Easy DIY Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe

Say goodbye to store-bought cocoa mix; this do-it-yourself version is made with ingredients you likely already have at home, and the result is delightfully chocolatey and smooth.

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