Homemade Christmas Hot Chocolate Mix

Homemade Christmas Hot Chocolate Mix

Cocoa, powdered sugar, and instant dry milk make a jarred hot chocolate mix that turns creamy even when prepared with water. Sifting the cocoa and sugar helps prevent clumps; whisking the mix gradually into hot liquid makes a smooth, light-brown drink. Hot milk gives each cup a richer taste.

Start with 3 tablespoons of mix per 8-ounce mug, then adjust to taste. For the festive serving, finish each clear handled mug with whipped cream, red-and-green sprinkles, and a mini candy cane.

Ingredients for Christmas Hot Chocolate Mix

• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (85g)
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (180g)
• 2 cups instant nonfat dry milk powder (200g)
• 1/4 teaspoon fine salt

For each mug:

• 8 fluid ounces water or milk
• 3 tablespoons hot chocolate mix, plus more to taste
• About 2 tablespoons whipped cream
• About 1/2 teaspoon red-and-green holiday sprinkles
• 1 mini candy cane

The dry mix contains powdered milk, so it is not dairy-free. Use water for a convenient cup or milk for a richer one.

How to Make Christmas Hot Chocolate Mix

1. Combine the dry ingredients: Sift the cocoa powder and powdered sugar into a medium bowl. Add the dry milk powder and salt, then whisk until the color is even and no large clumps remain.
2. Jar the mix: Transfer it to a clean, completely dry airtight jar. Seal and label it with the starting ratio of 3 tablespoons mix per 8 ounces of liquid. The recipe makes about 4 cups of dry mix.
3. Warm one serving: Heat 8 ounces of water or milk in a small saucepan over medium-low to medium heat, stirring frequently. After about 3 to 5 minutes, it should be steaming, with small bubbles at the edge but no rolling boil.
4. Whisk until smooth: Gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of mix. Keep the heat low if the drink needs more warming, and whisk until no dry pockets remain. Taste and add more mix for a stronger or sweeter cup.
5. Garnish just before serving: Pour into a clear handled mug and let the drink stop steaming heavily. Top with whipped cream and sprinkles, then hook a mini candy cane over the rim.

Microwave Option

For one cup without a saucepan, heat the water or milk in a microwave-safe mug until hot, then gradually whisk in 3 tablespoons of mix until smooth. Check the liquid as it heats; microwave times vary.

For a drink made without a stored mix, try classic homemade Christmas hot chocolate.

How to Store and Reheat

Keep the dry mix sealed in a clean, airtight jar in a cool, dry cupboard. It may keep for up to one year, but that is not a guaranteed shelf life. Gently shake the jar before measuring in case the ingredients have settled.

Make and garnish each drink close to serving time so the whipped cream and decorations stay neat. If needed, reheat a prepared drink gently and whisk before serving.

Nutrition

Approximate nutrition per mug made with 3 tablespoons of mix, 8 ounces of water, whipped cream, sprinkles, and a mini candy cane: 160 calories, 3g protein, 6g fat, and 23g carbohydrates. Per 100g: approximately 55 calories, 1g protein, 2g fat, and 8g carbohydrates. Values vary with the serving liquid, toppings, and amount of mix used.