Ingredients
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 cup powdered milk
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Ingredients and Why They Matter
Powdered sugar sweetens the mix and dissolves quickly in hot liquid because it’s very fine; it also slightly thickens the cocoa so the drink feels a bit creamier. Unsweetened cocoa powder is where all the chocolate flavor lives—using a good cocoa makes a noticeable difference, and you can use natural or Dutch‑process depending on how deep and dark you like it.
Powdered milk is what makes this a true “just add water or milk” mix. It brings creaminess and body so the cocoa doesn’t taste thin, especially when you use hot water. The small amount of salt is essential: it balances the sweetness and enhances the chocolate, making the cocoa taste more complex and less flat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
In a medium mixing bowl, I whisk together the powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered milk, and salt until everything looks completely uniform. If there are any lumps, I break them up with the whisk or press the mix through a fine sieve; a smooth dry mix dissolves better later.
Once the mix looks even, I transfer it to an airtight jar or container. A wide‑mouth glass jar, lidded canister, or even a large mason jar works well; just make sure it’s completely dry inside so the mix doesn’t clump. I label the jar with the name, the date, and quick directions (how many tablespoons per cup) so anyone in the house can make a mug.
How to Make Hot Cocoa from the Mix
To make a drink, I add 2–3 tablespoons of the cocoa mix to a mug. If I want a richer chocolate flavor, I lean toward 3 tablespoons; for a lighter cup, 2 tablespoons is usually enough.
Then I pour in about 1 cup of very hot milk or water—almost at a simmer, not boiling—over the mix. I stir well until the powder is completely dissolved and the drink looks smooth and glossy. At this point, I taste and adjust: if I want it sweeter or stronger, I add a bit more mix or a touch of sugar. You can top the mug with mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of extra cocoa.