The Best Hot Cocoa Mix

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A rich, creamy hot cocoa mix perfect for cozy nights and chilly mornings, offering comforting chocolate flavor with a hint of dairy, ideal for all hot chocolate lovers.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 11 qt. dry milk
  • 1 lb. Coffee-mate plain
  • 2 lb. Nestle Quik
  • 2 c. powdered sugar

Instructions

  1. Mix together thoroughly and store in a tight container.
  2. Use 1/3 cup of the mix per mug of boiling water.
  3. Top with miniature marshmallows before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a creamier hot cocoa, consider substituting part of the dry milk with powdered cream or using whole milk instead of water when preparing. You can also adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of powdered sugar according to taste. This mix can be customized with flavors like vanilla or peppermint for a festive twist, making it a great addition to holiday gatherings.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hot cocoa in festive mugs and top with miniature marshmallows or whipped cream for an extra treat. This drink pairs beautifully with cookies or brownies for a delightful dessert experience. For a cozy evening, consider accompanying it with a slice of Carrot Zucchini Bread or a piece of Plymouth Blueberry Cake.

Storage & Reheating

Store the hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to maintain freshness. It can last for several months. When you're ready to serve, simply scoop the desired amount into boiling water and stir well. If you have any leftovers after mixing, keep them sealed to avoid moisture and clumping.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of The Best Hot Cocoa Mix contains roughly 1912 calories, with 23g protein, 218g carbohydrates, and 109g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (92% of the Daily Value), calcium (73% of the Daily Value), and protein (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2489mg per serving (108% of the Daily Value).

1912 kcal 96% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.6g 45% DV
Total Fat 108.7g 100% DV
Carbs 217.9g 79% DV
Fiber 0.5g 2% DV
Sugar 184.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2489.2mg 100% DV
Potassium 987.4mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 302.2mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 825.6mcg 92% DV
Vitamin C 22.5mg 25% DV
Vitamin D 7.5mcg 38% DV
Calcium 949.2mg 73% DV
Iron 7.5mg 42% DV
Diet fit High-protein
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this hot cocoa mix vegan?

Yes, you can substitute the dry milk with a non-dairy milk powder, such as almond or coconut milk powder, and use a dairy-free coffee creamer to make this mix vegan-friendly. Just ensure the other ingredients are also free from animal products.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the cocoa?

You can easily modify the sweetness by reducing or increasing the amount of powdered sugar in the mix. Start with less sugar and taste the mixture after adding hot water to find your preferred level of sweetness.

Is this mix suitable for large gatherings?

Absolutely! This hot cocoa mix can be made in bulk and served at parties or gatherings. Prepare it ahead of time and keep it in a large container. Guests can simply scoop out the desired amount and add hot water, allowing for a quick and easy serving option.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Vegetarian recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →