Easy homemade hot cocoa mix made with a few simple ingredients like powdered sugar, powdered milk, and cocoa powder that’s perfect to mix with hot water or milk for homemade hot chocolate.

Image of a jar clear glass jar filled with homemade hot cocoa mix, a white enamel cup with a blue rim filled with hot cocoa, and a white enamel cup with grey swirls with mini marshmallows and small candy canes.

Making your own hot cocoa mix is super easy and it only has 5 simple ingredients in it! Homemade hot cocoa mix is a treat that’s budget-friendly, healthier than most store-bought varieties, and much kinder to the environment by cutting down on waste. So no matter how you cut it, making DIY hot cocoa mix at home is a great option.

It’s the best hot beverage after sledding and goes great with a batch ofhomemade microwave popcorn. Or you can use this recipe for the inside ofhot chocolate bombs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

With 5 ingredients, homemade hot cocoa mix issuper easy to make and comes together in a few minutes.
It’smore cost-effectivethan buying individual packets at the store.
It makes a great gift, especially when paired witha couple enamel mugsand some toppings such as some mini marshmallows and peppermint sticks.
Cuts down on the waste generated by individual packets of store-bought mix by storing it in a reusable container.

Recipe Ingredients

Powdered sugar
Powdered milk
Cocoa powder:be sure to use Dutch-processed (also called alkalized) cocoa powder
Salt: both sea salt and iodized salt will work in this recipe so use what you prefer or have on-hand
Corn starch:improves the texture

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities

Popular Substitutions and Variations

Stir in a few chocolate chips (or a Hershey’s Kiss) into your cocoa while it’s hot to make it extra chocolatey.
Use a candy cane to stir your hot chocolate to add peppermint flavor to it.
Add a few marshmallows, homemadeCaramel Sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to the top of your prepared hot cocoa to change things up.
When making the hot cocoa, use hot whole milk instead of water to make it extra creamy.

How to Make Easy Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

Step #1.Put all the dry ingredients in a big bowl.
Step #2.Stir with a wire whisk to combine.
Step #3.Store in an air-tight container until ready to use.
Step #4.To use the hot coco mix, add 2 to 3 tablespoons of the dry mix to 8 ounce of hot water or milk.

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this hot cocoa mix dairy-free?

Yes. Use a powdered non-dairy milk, such as powdered coconut milk or powdered almond milk. These alternatives may change the flavor slightly, so make a quarter or half batch to see how you like it before committing to the full recipe.

How long does homemade hot cocoa mix last for?

Homemade hot cocoa mix typically lasts for up to six months if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

How do I make hot cocoa mix in a jar?

After you combine all the dry ingredients in a bowl, use a funnel or a small scoop to transfer the cocoa mix to a mason jar with a screw-on lid or use a cute jar with a clamp down lid.

What other flavors can I add to the hot cocoa mix?

When adding hot milk or water, you can add some cinnamon, peppermint, caramel, or even a hint of chili powder for a spicy kick. Get creative and experiment with different combinations!

Is this hot cocoa mix better with water or milk?

It depends on your preference. Hot milk will give you a creamier, more decadent texture. But hot water works tastes great, too, especially if you are on the go and won’t be able to access milk.

Expert Tips

Don’t skip the salt or corn starch.The salt balances the sweetness of the hot chocolate and the cornstarch makes the texture smoother.
It’s important touse Dutch-processed (or alkalized) cocoahere to help make sure the cocoa isn’t bitter. The container will normally say if it’s Dutch-processed.
This recipemakes a great giftfor family, friends or teacherswhen given in a pretty container or with a set of mugs like theseenamel mugs.