Classic Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe (Perfect for Gifting!)

Hot cocoa mix is one of those things that varies a lot.

Don’t get me wrong, Swiss Miss absolutely serves its purpose and will always hold a special place in my heart. But if you’re looking for a rich, creamy, decadent hot chocolate that doesn’t require fresh milk, this classic hot cocoa mix recipe is my favorite.

It’s been in our family for ages (my grandma clipped it from a magazine years ago), and it’s absolutely delicious — plus, with just four ingredients, it’s incredibly easy to pull together.

It’s perfect for holiday gifting or just keeping on hand for cozy nights at home.

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Ingredients

You only need four ingredients, but they are very specific.

Instant Nonfat Dry Milk

You’ll need a bag of powdered milk (I used Safeway brand) that makes 8 quarts of milk. The way powdered milk is measured can be a little confusing, but it comes out to 25.6 oz.

The powdered milk is essential here, since it’s what makes the hot cocoa creamy. If you’re debating between nonfat and whole milk powder (I was), I actually tested this recipe with both, and nonfat is preferable.

Nonfat dry milk dissolves better and highlights the chocolate flavor more. Whole milk powder works, but I found it makes the cocoa taste more like milk than chocolate.

Nesquik 

You’ll also need some classic Nesquik for chocolate flavor and added creaminess. 

Powdered Sugar

Powdered sugar adds sweetness and a smooth texture. Be sure to sift it first to avoid clumps.

Non-Dairy Powdered Creamer

You will also need non-dairy powdered creamer. I used Amazon brand, which is convenient and affordable. 

Dehydrated Mini Marshmallows (Optional)

Marshmallows are never required, but always fun. Dehydrated mini marshmallows hold up well in the mix and stay fresh for months.

I used these marshmallows from Amazon — they’re a great value, especially if you’re making this in bulk!

Instructions 

All you need to do is combine the ingredients, but there are a few tricks involved. Mixing this much dry ingredient volume and getting everything evenly distributed is more challenging than it sounds.

If you’re adding marshmallows, wait until the end. I like to add them directly to each jar so I can control the amount.

Use a very large pot or mixing bowl (at least 8–10 quarts if you have one). Don’t have a bowl big enough? Use my mom’s hack: put everything into a clean, unscented trash bag. You’ll have plenty of room, and it makes mixing much easier.

You can whisk or sieve the entire mixture for extra efficiency, but I usually sift only the powdered sugar and then stir all the ingredients together. Be patient, since it takes time to fully combine them. I often pass the mix back and forth between a couple of bowls to make sure everything is evenly distributed, especially at the bottom.

Storing & Serving

Once everything is mixed, store the cocoa in airtight containers. For gifting, I like using 32-oz mason jars (mine are from Hobby Lobby), but large Ziplock bags or any sealed container works too.

If you’re adding marshmallows, I like to mix about 1 cup into each jar and then sprinkle a few on top.

While best enjoyed fresh, this cocoa mix will stay good for a few months.

The most important part of this recipe is serving it correctly.

For maximum flavor and creaminess, you’ll need more mix than you might expect. Most store-bought mixes only call for a few tablespoons, but this one uses a 50/50 mix-to-water ratio. Fill a mug halfway with the mix, then add hot water, stir, and enjoy.

If you want a printable serving instruction card, sign up for my newsletter below to download it. You can print it, cut and hole-punch it, and tie it onto your jar with ribbon.

Or create your own personalized label!

Recipe for 1 Serving

Looking to make just one serving of this hot cocoa mix?

This makes about 1 cup of mix, which comes out to 1–2 servings depending on the size of your mug.

• ½ cup + 2 teaspoons instant nonfat dry milk
• ¼ cup + 1 tablespoon Nesquik
• 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon nondairy powdered creamer

Combine all ingredients and add mini marshmallows to taste. To serve, fill your mug half full with mix. Then add hot water, stir, and enjoy.

More Festive Drinks

Looking for more cozy, wintery drinks? Try one of my go-to festive mocktails below.