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Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

Rich, creamy, refined-sugar-free homemade cocoa mix that’s perfect for gifting. Layers beautifully in jars and comes together in minutes
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
SERVINGS: 12 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup coconut sugar
  • 1 cup powdered milk or coconut milk powder
  • ¼ cup mini chocolate chips
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

(Optional additions)

  • 1 teaspoon vanilla bean powder
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • Extra chocolate chips for topping the jar

Instructions

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  • Use a clean, dry 24–32 oz glass jar. A wide-mouth jar works best because it makes layering easier and cleaner.
  • Pour the 1 cup coconut sugar into the bottom of the jar using a funnel. Lightly tap the jar on the counter to level it out. This creates a solid, heavy base layer that keeps everything stacked neatly.
  • Spoon in 1 cup powdered milk or coconut milk powder. Add it slowly to avoid dusting the sides of the jar. Tap gently to settle this layer.
  • Carefully spoon in the 1 cup cocoa powder. This layer is lighter and can cloud the jar if added too quickly—pour slowly and use the funnel to keep edges clean.
  • Sprinkle the ¼ tsp salt over the cocoa layer. If using vanilla bean powder or cinnamon, sprinkle them here too so the flavors distribute evenly when the mix is combined.
  • Add the ¼ cup mini chocolate chips as the top layer. This gives the jar a finished, boutique-style look and adds extra richness to the mix.
  • Tightly seal the jar with a lid. Add a label and tie on a gift tag with instructions (see below). Keep the jar upright to preserve the layered look if gifting.
  • Stir 2 tablespoons of the cocoa mix into 1 cup hot milk (or water). Mix until creamy and fully dissolved. Add more cocoa mix for a richer cup.

Notes

  • If gifting, avoid shaking the jar so the layers stay pretty.
  • For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk powder and pair with oat or almond milk.
  • For an extra-smooth result, tell recipients to dissolve the cocoa mix in a splash of hot milk first, then pour in the rest.
  • Store at room temperature in an airtight jar.
  • Stays fresh for up to 6 months.
  • Keep away from heat so the chocolate chips don’t melt.

Gift Tag Instructions (paste onto a printable tag)

To Make:
Combine 2 tbsp cocoa mix with 1 cup hot milk. Stir until creamy.
Optional: Top with whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings.