Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
/Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
It's cold, really cold. Snow is still falling. Perfect time for a great drink like a cup of homemade hot cocoa.
As in many things in life, the difference is the kind of chocolate you use. I stock up on Hershey’s Unsweetened Dark Chocolate around the holidays, when it’s usually the only time of the year when I can find it.
There are other chocolate options but in general, the better the chocolate the better the hot cocoa.
The first recipe I found was pretty basic and had none of the rich texture one gets from buying hot cocoa mix in fancy containers.
After some research, I found this recipe from Alton Brown that includes a secret ingredient that makes all of the difference - cayenne pepper flakes.
I have now made this recipe a couple of times, once for gifts and the second time to have a supply for myself.
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Ingredients (for 5 cups of dry mix)
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa (Dutch-process preferred); Hershey's Special Dark Chocolate is another option.
2 1/2 cups powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cornstarch
optional - 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste
optional - add baking chips like butterscotch or mint to the top
To serve, start with 2 tablespoons per 8 ounces of hot water. Mix a couple ounces of hot water in mix first, then add hot water to taste.
To mix well, I will measure the mix and water in a blender and give it a whirl.
You can add other things like toffee bits, candy cane crumbs, honey or candy baking chips to the mix. If you like a little variety, try spices such as cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice.
Simply whisk the ingredients together.
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Gift Idea
You can give it as a gift all on its own, or pair it with other yummy treats. Arrange it in a gift basket with a mug all on its own with the recipe. You can also add cookies.
A canning jar is perfect for packaging edible gifts like hot cocoa mix although my preference is interesting glass jars with tight lids. Use a colorful ribbon and a gift tag with instructions.
Although I tend to see these kinds of recipes at Christmas, it's a nice gift idea for Valentine's Day, too and for any fall and winter birthdays. Or as a gift for yourself.
When I get ready for winter snow storms, hot chocolate and marshmallows are a favorite treat!