MMMM… a warm cup of cocoa is all I can think about these days. As I write, it’s cold, rainy (borderline snowy), and all around yucky. The fireplace is roaring, and I’ve got on a pair of my fuzziest socks. I mean what says “bring me a warm cup of cocoa” more than that? This winter I’ve been experimenting with recipes to find the perfect hot cocoa mix using ingredients you already have at home. #BYEBYEBAGGEDMIX!
This hot cocoa mix recipe is rich, but not too sweet. Furthermore, it will definitely satisfy that cocoa-craving. I tried using white sugar so many times, but something just wasn’t right. Brown sugar gives this cocoa some deeper flavor, and (similar to coffee) enhances the chocolate notes.
Hot cocoa is the BEST gift to a work friend or neighbor. It’s thoughtful, delicious, and can be made so cute. I throw the cocoa powder and sugar in a cellophane bag along with marshmallows and a mini candy cane. Then, I tie a decorative ribbon to seal the bag with instructions to add the vanilla and milk and heat through.
I keep a batch of the cocoa powder and brown sugar mixed together in my pantry. If I’m in the mood for just one mug, I simply add 3 tablespoons of my cocoa mix to a pot with 1 cup of milk and 1/4 tsp vanilla extract. This recipe is so easy to enjoy on your own, or multiply the ratios to make enough cocoa for a crowd!
You can find more of my pantry staple foods, on my SHOP page!
Better Than Bagged Hot Cocoa Mix
Ingredients
- 1/2 c cocoa powder
- 1/4 c brown sugar lightly packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 4 c milk any milk will work
Instructions
- Mix together ingredients in a pot over medium low heat until ingredients combine, sugar dissolves, and cocoa is warmed through.*
- Top with marshmallows or whipped cream and crushed peppermints. ENJOY!
Notes
Combine 3 tbsp of cocoa/sugar mix with 1/4 tsp of vanilla extract and 1 c milk. Heat as directed above.
