Big Batch Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
Introduction
This big batch hot cocoa mix is perfect for cozy nights or gifting to friends and family. Made with simple pantry ingredients, it creates rich, creamy hot chocolate in minutes. Customize with marshmallows or your favorite milk for an extra treat.

Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners’ sugar*
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 ½ cups (250 g) powdered milk
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Mini marshmallows (optional)
- Hot water or milk (for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the confectioners’ sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, powdered milk, cornstarch, and kosher salt.
- Step 2: Whisk all the dry ingredients together thoroughly until evenly mixed.
- Step 3: Transfer the mixture to an airtight container for storage.
- Step 4: To make a cup of hot cocoa, add about ¼ cup of the mix to a mug.
- Step 5: Top the cocoa powder with ¼ cup of mini marshmallows if using.
- Step 6: Pour hot water or milk over the powder and marshmallows, stirring until fully dissolved.
- Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy your warm, comforting drink.
Tips & Variations
- Use whole milk or a milk alternative instead of water for a creamier drink.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla powder to the mix for extra flavor.
- Adjust the amount of cocoa mix per cup to suit your preferred richness and sweetness.
- Gift this hot cocoa mix in jars with festive ribbons for a homemade present.
Storage
Store the hot cocoa mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to one year. When ready to enjoy, simply scoop out the desired amount and prepare as directed. Leftover prepared hot cocoa is best consumed immediately but can be reheated gently on the stove or in a microwave.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular cocoa powder instead of Dutch-processed?
Yes, you can substitute regular cocoa powder, but the flavor will be slightly different—regular cocoa is more acidic and less mellow than Dutch-processed.
How much hot cocoa mix should I use per cup of liquid?
Use about ¼ cup of cocoa mix per cup of hot water or milk. Adjust to taste if you prefer a stronger or lighter chocolate flavor.
PrintBig Batch Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe
This Big Batch Hot Cocoa Mix is a delightful homemade blend that combines Dutch-processed cocoa, powdered milk, and confectioners’ sugar, creating a rich and creamy hot cocoa base. Perfect for making cozy drinks anytime, this mix can be stored for up to a year and serves as a quick and delicious way to enjoy classic hot cocoa, with optional marshmallow topping for extra indulgence.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 4½ cups of hot cocoa mix (enough for about 18 cups of hot cocoa) 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups (250 g) confectioners’ sugar
- 1 cup (118 g) Dutch-processed cocoa powder
- 2 ½ cups (250 g) powdered milk
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
Optional Toppings and Serving
- Mini marshmallows (optional)
- Hot water or milk (for serving)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the confectioners’ sugar, Dutch-processed cocoa powder, powdered milk, cornstarch, and kosher salt.
- Mix Thoroughly: Whisk all the dry ingredients together until well combined and uniform in color and texture, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Store the Mix: Transfer the mixture into an airtight container. Store in a cool, dry place for up to one year to maintain freshness.
- Prepare Hot Cocoa: When ready to enjoy, scoop about ¼ cup of the hot cocoa mix into a mug.
- Add Marshmallows: Optionally, top the powder in the mug with ¼ cup of mini marshmallows for added sweetness and texture.
- Pour Hot Liquid: Add hot water or hot milk over the cocoa mix and marshmallows, then stir vigorously until the mixture is completely dissolved and smooth.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately for a comforting, rich cup of homemade hot cocoa.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of hot cocoa mix according to taste preferences; more powder creates a richer drink.
- For a creamier hot cocoa, use hot milk instead of water.
- Store the mix in a sealed container to prevent moisture and maintain quality.
- This mix can be made ahead in large batches and gifted as holiday treats.
- Use kosher salt for balanced flavor, but regular table salt can be substituted if unavailable.
Keywords: hot cocoa mix, homemade hot chocolate, big batch cocoa mix, warm drinks, easy cocoa recipe

