Hot Cocoa Mix {Big Batch} (2024)

This Big Batch Hot Cocoa Mix is a powdery mix made with sugar, cocoa powder, and powdered milk that will be your go-to when it comes to mixing with hot water or milk. It’s worth having on hand for the cold months ahead. Be sure to check out my stovetop Hot Chocolate, too!

Hot Cocoa Mix {Big Batch}

Nothing warms a body up like a mug of rich hot cocoa, especially in the winter. And, it’s a beverage that can be enjoyed by all ages. When you can make your own mix like this one inspired by Food Network’s Alton Brown, it even tastes better! Plus, you know exactly what is going into the powdery mix with no added preservatives. Try adding this to Peppermint Hot Cocoa Bombs. I also have a big batch of White Hot Chocolate Mix, too!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Sugar: Use confectioners’ sugar (also known as icing sugar or powdered sugar) in the mix. It will dissolve much easier than coarser kinds of sugar.

Cocoa Powder: I prefer Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a slightly darker color and smoother chocolate flavor. However, you could use regular unsweetened cocoa powder.

Powdered Milk: Powdered milk is evaporated milk with a longer shelf life when compared to liquid milk. It is also called milk powder or dry (dried) milk.

Cornstarch: Adding cornstarch to the cocoa powder will give the hot cocoa a creamier consistency.

Salt: Yes, salt is an important ingredient that should not be left out. Salt actually enhances the sweetness of the mix while bringing out more chocolate flavor.

How Much Does the Mix Make?

The dry mix makes about 4 1/2 cups of powder. The amount of servings you will have is dependent on the size of the mug you are using and how much chocolate flavor you are craving. I would recommend starting with 1/4 cup to 1/2 cup powder. If you add about 1/4 cup of hot cocoa mix to a cup of hot water or hot milk, you will have enough mix to make about 18 cups of hot cocoa.

Can I Add Milk to Hot Cocoa Mix?

Sure! In fact, we had a couple of taste testers that preferred to add hot milk to the mix. But, both hot water and hot milk are delicious when added. Try adding hot coffee or even chocolate milk as additional options.

What is the Difference Between Hot Cocoa and Hot Chocolate?

Although both hot cocoa and hot chocolate are popular cold-weather drinks, there is a slight difference between the two. Hot cocoa is usually made from a powdery mix, blended with hot water or milk. On the other hand, hot chocolate is generally chocolate that has been melted in hot liquid. So, most of the mix you buy from the store is hot cocoa. Of course, marshmallows can be added to both.

How to Store Hot Cocoa Mix

This is a big batch of hot cocoa mix, so be sure to keep it handy for when you are craving a mug of hot cocoa. The mix can be stored in a cool dry place for up to a year when properly stored. It may lose some of the flavors the longer it is stored, so it’s best if you can enjoy it within that time.