This healthy, homemade hot cocoa mix recipe creates decadent hot chocolate mix with cacao and coconut sugar. Mix with your choice of milk!
Y’all this homemade hot coca mix recipe has been a HIT in my house this year. My daughter and I whipped up a big batch back in September when the seasons changed and we have been making hot cacao or homemade hot cocoa with cacao powder when she gets home from school in the afternoons.
If you’re looking for a delicious alternative to traditional hot cocoa or you’re still drinking hot cocoa from a packet you have to ry this homemade hot coca mix recipe.
First of all, this hot cacao mix uses coconut sugar. This natural sweetener adds a unique flavor to the drink, creating a rich and indulgent treat. To make the mix, combine cacao powder, coconut sugar, and a pinch of salt in a bowl. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well combined. To make a cup of hot cacao, simply mix two tablespoons of the homemade mix with a cup of milk and heat it on the stove or in the microwave. The coconut sugar gives the cacao a slightly caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with the rich cocoa. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a cozy cup of homemade hot cocoa.
What kind of milk do you use for hot coca mix?
We usually use whole milk or raw milk but ANY kind of milk will work. Just not water. This homemade hot coca mix recipe definitely needs to be added to milk.
That’s because this homemade hot coca mix recipe is made without powdered milk and powdered sugar. The cacao gives this recipe the most perfect rich chocolate flavor and the coconut sugar naturally sweetens it for the perfect balance. You’ll add your own milk of choice instead of hot water for the creamiest, richest, and coziest hot cacao recipe you’ve ever made.
INGREDIENTS & KITCHEN TOOLS
The ingredients for hot cacao mix include cacao powder, coconut sugar, salt, and cinnamon. Cacao powder is the main ingredient that gives hot cocoa its rich and chocolatey taste. Coconut sugar adds a hint of sweetness and a touch of natural flavor. Salt enhances the overall flavor profile and helps balance the sweetness. Lastly, cinnamon adds a warm and comforting aroma to the hot cocoa mix, making it even more inviting. Together, these ingredients create a delicious and satisfying hot cocoa, perfect for cozy winter nights or any time you crave a decadent treat.
When you are ready to make a warm cup of hot cacao, just warm up your favorite milk, add your cacao mix and a splash of vanilla and enjoy!
Ingredients for the hot cocoa mix:
Cacao powder
Coconut sugar
Salt
Cinnamon (or your preferred spices, you could also try nutmeg)
Ingredients for the a cup of hot cocoa:
Hot milk (we use whole milk or raw, whole milk but any milk of choice such as almond milk, oat milk will work)
Hot cocoa mix (1 Tbsp. of mix per 4oz of liquid)
Vanilla extract (my secret ingredient)
What is Cacao Powder:
Cacao powder is a fine and dark powder derived from crushed cacao beans. It is known for its rich chocolate flavor and its versatility in various recipes. It is often used as an alternative to cocoa powder, as it is less processed and retains more of its natural nutrients. Cacao powder is also valued for its health benefits, as it contains antioxidants and minerals that can contribute to overall well-being. Whether it is used in brownies, or smoothies, and in this case, hot cacao. It tends to be a bit more of a bittersweet chocolate, but it adds the distinct taste of chocolate and enhances the overall culinary experience.
Kitchen tools you’ll need for this homemade hot coca mix recipe:
I highly recommend having a hand held frother to make sure your hot cocao gets mixed together without any clumps. You’ll also want to have some jars with lids that close tightly to ensure the mix stays fresh, we always use these!
STEP BY STEP
This hot cacao mix is perfect for gifting for the holidays (we are using ours for teachers gifts), or just keeping some on hand for you and this kiddos after spending a day outside in the snow. The mix is easy to whip up, a quick prep time and made with coconut sugar and it’ll store great in the pantry.
To Make The Healthy, Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix:
Step 1: Measure all of the ingredients into a large bowl and whisk together until incorporated.
Step 2: Store in a jar with a lid for about 4-6 months! Scoop out when you need it!
To make a cup of cocoa (or hot cacao):
Step 1: Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat, checking and stirring frequently to make sure the milk doesn’t scald.
Step 2: Once hot, whisk in the cacao mix and vanilla. I like to use a milk frother to do the job quickly and to get some nice foam!
Step 3: Serve & enjoy!
TIPS & TRICKS
The perfect, cozy hot cacao recipe a must this winter. Start by choosing high-quality cacao powder or chocolate for a rich flavor. Add the cacao powder or finely chop the chocolate and mix it with a bit of sugar and a pinch of salt. This will enhance the chocolate’s flavor and create a perfect balance of sweetness. Next, warm the milk over medium-low heat and slowly whisk in the chocolate mixture, ensuring it melts completely. For an extra touch of indulgence, add a splash of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Finally, serve the hot cacao with a dollop of freshly whipped cream or marshmallows for a delightful treat. Enjoy the cozy and comforting experience of sipping the perfect cup of hot cocoa on a cold winter’s day!
OTHER WARM AND COZY RECIPES + WHAT TO PAIR WITH YOUR HOMEMADE HEALTHY HOT CHOCOLATE
Nothing pairs better with some cozy hot cacao than a delicious cookie. If you haven’t tried my Best Ever Shortbread Cookies with Cranberry, Orange and Chocolate, now is the perfect time to make a batch. I also love snacking on my Triple Chocolate Peppermint Shortbread cookies or some Soft & Chewy Oatmeal Raisin cookies while sipping my homemade hot cacao.
BONUS: if you are looking for a boozy hot chocolate recipe for a little twist, you must make my Spiked Hot Chocolate Recipe with Bourbon & Coffee Liqueur. It just hit the blog and you all are already loving it!
HOW TO SERVE | MARSHMALLOWS, WHIPPED CREAM, CHOCOLATE CHIPS, AND GIVE AS A GIFT
We love whipping these up in some cute mugs, topped with some whipped cream and/or marshmallows and mini dark or white chocolate chips. This year, Madi and I will be putting these together in little mason jars with some cute ribbon for her teachers gifts. They are easy to share because all they have to do is add this mix to their favorite hot liquid (with a splash of vanilla) and they have a cup of cozy goodness.
STORING + REHEATING
This mix will last for 6-4 months stored in an airtight container or mason jar.
PrintHealthy, Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe {Hot Cacao}
This healthy, homemade hot cocoa mix recipe creates decadent hot chocolate mix with cacao and coconut sugar. Mix with your choice of milk!
Ingredients
For The Healthy, Homemade Hot Chocolate Power (makes about 2 cups):
- 1 cup cacao powder
- 1 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 tsp. salt
- 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
To make a cup of cocoa (or hot cacao):
- 8 oz hot milk (we use whole milk or raw, whole milk but an milk of choice will work)
- 2 Tbsp. hot cocoa mix (1 Tbsp. of mix per 4oz of liquid)
- 1 splash vanilla extract
Instructions
To Make The Healthy, Homemade Hot Chocolate Power:
- Measure all of the ingredients into a bowl and whisk together until incorporated.
- Store in a jar with a lid for about 4-6 months! Scoop out when you need it!
To make a cup of cocoa (or hot cacao):
- Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat, checking and stirring frequently to make sure the milk doesn’t scald.
- Once hot, whisk in the cocoa mix and vanilla. I like to use a milk frother to do the job quickly and to get some nice foam!
- Serve & enjoy!
- 2 Tbsp. hot cocoa mix
- 1 splash vanilla extract