A warm mug of cocoa made with this easy homemade hot cocoa mix is a simple pleasure, perfect for cozy nights. This recipe uses real food ingredients to create the most flavorful and satisfying cup I’ve ever enjoyed!

Making your own homemade hot chocolate mix without powdered milk is an easy way to enjoy a healthier, more flavorful alternative to store-bought mixes. Whether it’s a quiet evening with a hot cup of cocoa or a thoughtful holiday gift, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor. With simple ingredients and endless customization, you’ll never go back to the extra cost of packaged mixes.

So next time you crave a cozy cup of cocoa, reach for your jar of homemade hot cocoa powder, warm up a large mug, and enjoy the best hot chocolate you’ve ever tasted.

Why Make Your Own Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

A Healthier Hot Cocoa Mix

Store-bought mixes often contain dry milk powder, corn syrup, seed oils, and artificial flavors. Making a homemade hot chocolate mix recipe ensures you know exactly what’s going into your drink, avoiding unnecessary additives and preservatives.

The Best Way to Enjoy Chocolate Flavor

This homemade version uses unsweetened cocoa powder or cacao powder, delivering a deep, rich chocolate flavor. Paired with real milk or a dairy-free milk like oat milk or coconut milk, it offers a creamier hot chocolate than any store-bought option.

Ingredients for homemade hot cocoa mix without powdered milk

Ingredients for Homemade Hot Cocoa Recipe

Cocoa Powder: The unsweetened cocoa powder is the base of the recipe, providing the deep, rich chocolate flavor that indulges hot cocoa. You can also use cacao powder.
White Sugar: adds the right amount of sweetness to balance the bitterness of the cocoa powder. It dissolves easily in warm liquids, ensuring a smooth texture.
Heavy Cream Powder: I use this heavy cream powder instead of powdered milk, which adds richness and creaminess to the hot cocoa mix. When mixed with liquid, it creates a velvety texture.
Vanilla Bean Powder: This powder improves the overall flavor profile of the mix, adding a warm, aromatic sweetness that complements the chocolate.
Salt: This may seem a surprising addition, but it’s a flavor enhancer that brings out the chocolate’s natural richness while balancing the sweetness.

Kitchen Tools (affiliate links): Large Jar | Frother

How to Make Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

Step-by-Step Instructions

In a large bowl or food processor, combine unsweetened cocoa powder, white sugar, heavy cream powder, vanilla bean powder and salt.
Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the dry mix to an airtight container such as a mason jar or regular jar.
Store in a cool dry place for up to three months.

This recipe yields a large batch, but you can easily double or triple it to ensure you always have plenty of mix on hand for those cozy, chocolate-filled nights.

a spoonful of hot cocoa mix being put into a coffee mug

pouring hot milk into a cup that has hot cocoa mix in it.

How to Make a Cup of Hot Chocolate

Using Your Homemade Mix

Heat 1 cup of milk of choice until it’s warm but not boiling.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix to your cup of milk and stir until fully dissolved. For the best results, use a frother to mix it to a creamy perfection, ensuring that all ingredients are blended well.
Adjust the sweetness and thickness by adding a little more mix if preferred.

a cup of creamy hot chocolate made from homemade hot cocoa mix

Favorite Toppings

Top with mini marshmallows, a dollop of whipped cream, or drizzle with chocolate sauce. Add a festive touch with a candy cane or sprinkle of crushed peppermint.

Tips for the Best Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

Customize Your Cocoa Mix Recipe

Add espresso powder for a subtle coffee flavor that enhances the richness of the cocoa.
Include dark chocolate shavings, chocolate chips, or a dash of peppermint extract for an indulgent twist.

Milk vs. Water

While you can make hot cocoa using hot water, warm milk results in a richer, creamier texture.

Create a Creamy Texture

For the creamiest result, opt for whole milk. You can experiment with different milk alternatives, such as almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, as your base to find your favorite.

Make It a Holiday Gift

Package your homemade mix in a mason jar or glass jar, tie it with a festive ribbon, and include a handwritten recipe card. It’s a thoughtful touch that makes a perfect holiday gift or party favor.

A cup of hot chocolate made from homemade cocoa mix and topped with marshmallows.

Create a Hot Chocolate Bar with This Homemade Mix

If you’re planning a party or holiday gathering or want to add a little fun to your family nights, consider setting up a hot chocolate bar featuring this homemade hot chocolate recipe. This is a great to let everyone customize their own perfect cup of hot chocolate with their favorite toppings and mix-ins.

For tips, ideas, and inspiration, check out my post on Hot Chocolate Bar Decor Ideas and Toppings and make your gathering extra special!

Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Without Powdered Milk

This easy homemade hot cocoa mix is made with simple, real ingredients for the creamiest, most flavorful cocoa. Just add a few tablespoons to hot milk or water for a cozy, indulgent treat that’s perfect for chilly nights!

Prep Time 5

Total Time 5

Serving Size 5 cups

Ingredients

2 cups white sugar
2 cups cocoa or cacao powder
1 ½ cup heavy cream powder
2 tablespoons vanilla bean powder
1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

In a large bowl or food processor, combine unsweetened cocoa powder, white sugar, heavy cream powder, vanilla bean powder and salt.
Mix well until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Transfer the dry mix to an airtight container such as a mason jar or regular jar.
Store in a cool dry place for up to three months.

Using Your Homemade Mix

Heat 1 cup of milk of choice until it’s warm but not boiling.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix to your cup of milk and stir until fully dissolved. For the best results, use a frother to mix it to a creamy perfection, ensuring that all ingredients are blended well.
Adjust the sweetness and thickness by adding a little more mix if preferred.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work!

About Sarah

Wife. Mother. From-Scratch Cook. Homemaker.

I’m Sarah, the creator of Rocky Hedge Farm, where I share my love for simple living, homemade meals, and creating a cozy home. As a wife and mother, I’m passionate about slowing down, cooking from scratch, and finding joy in the everyday moments of life. From DIY projects and family-friendly recipes, I hope to inspire others to embrace a life rooted in simplicity and warmth.

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