Death by Chocolate Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

"Death By Chocolate" Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix: Introduction

Ever get that craving for proper, comforting chocolate? Honestly, shop bought stuff just doesn't cut it. That's why I created this homemade hot cocoa mix recipe.

It’s so easy. It's decadent. It's absolutely perfect for chilly evenings.

Why This Hot Cocoa is the Bomb

This isn't your average hot cocoa recipe ; it's like a warm hug in a mug. Drawing from traditions in home cooking, this recipe creates a deeply rich, velvety gourmet hot chocolate experience.

It's ridiculously easy to make. You'll have enough chocolate mix for about 20 servings.

What Makes It So Special?

Beyond being incredibly delicious, this easy hot cocoa recipe offers some feel good vibes too. Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants.

These are great during the winter, when everyone's feeling a bit under the weather. This best hot cocoa mix is perfect for a cozy night in.

Why not wrap it as a diy hot cocoa gift ?

Ingredients & Equipment: Your Hot Cocoa Arsenal

Let's get real cozy and talk ingredients! Honestly, making your own homemade hot chocolate is dead easy. It's all about quality and a little love.

Trust me, once you ditch the store-bought stuff, you'll never go back. We're talking proper winter drinks here.

Main Ingredients: The Chocolatey Heart

For this "Death By Chocolate" hot cocoa recipe , you'll need:

• 2 cups (200g) Unsweetened Cocoa Powder: Go for Dutch processed. It's got a richer, smoother vibe.
• 1 ½ cups (300g) Granulated Sugar: Adds the perfect sweetness.
• 1 cup (120g) Powdered Sugar: For that velvety texture.
• ½ cup (60g) Semisweet Chocolate Chips: Finely chopped, mind you!
• ½ cup (60g) Milk Chocolate Chips: Again, finely chopped for melty goodness.
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) Salt: Balances the sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon (5ml) Ground Cinnamon: A warm, festive touch.
• ½ teaspoon (2.5ml) Ground Nutmeg: Adds depth.
• ¼ teaspoon (1.25ml) Cayenne Pepper: Optional, for a cheeky kick!
• ¼ cup (30g) Cornstarch: Helps thicken the mix.

Cocoa powder is key. Splurge a little for a good brand. It makes all the difference.

Seasoning Notes: Spicing Things Up

Cinnamon and nutmeg are your base. They scream "winter!". A tiny pinch of cayenne? Oh my gosh, that’s just chefs kiss.

It adds a subtle warmth that's surprisingly addictive. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a little bit of ground ginger! This elevates the chocolate mix to another level.

Equipment Needed: Keep It Simple

You don't need much. Just these easy-to-get tools:

• A large mixing bowl : For combining everything.
• A whisk : To get rid of any lumps.
• An airtight storage container : Mason jars are cute. A tin works too.

No fancy equipment needed. Honestly, a fork works in a pinch if you don't have a whisk. The goal is delicious gourmet hot chocolate , not a kitchen workout.

These make absolutely stunning diy hot cocoa gifts , by the way!

Looking for the best hot cocoa mix ? This is it! Perfect for a chilly night or for sharing some spiked hot cocoa with friends.

This easy hot cocoa recipe is a winner.

Alright, let's get cosy! Winter's here, and what better way to warm up than with some hot cocoa ? I'm not talking about that dusty packet stuff, though.

We're making a "Death By Chocolate" homemade hot chocolate mix that will knock your socks off. Trust me, this is next level.

This ain't your average hot cocoa recipe .

Prep Steps: Mise en Place Madness

First, let's get organised. Essential mise en place is key. Gather all your ingredients. This is so much easier than the Christmas light situation! Get your 2 cups of cocoa powder.

I prefer Dutch processed, it's richer. Then grab your sugars, choc chips, spices and cornstarch. Having everything ready saves time, big time! It’s all about time saving organization tips.

Make sure your equipment is clean, too. Honestly, who wants dusty hot cocoa?

step-by-step: Cocoa Nirvana

Ready to get started? This is easy as pie, or should I say, easy as gourmet hot chocolate .

1. Whisk together 2 cups cocoa, 1 ½ cups granulated sugar, 1 cup powdered sugar. Add 1 teaspoon salt, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, ½ teaspoon nutmeg, and optional ¼ teaspoon cayenne in a big bowl. Make sure it's all mixed well.
2. Gently fold in ½ cup semi sweet and ½ cup milk chocolate chips. Finely chopped works best.
3. Transfer to an airtight container. I love using cute mason jars.
4. To make spiked hot cocoa , add in 2-3 tablespoons of mix into 1 cup hot milk. If you want to go wild
5. Heat it for around 1- 2 minutes in the microwave. Or, on the stove.
6. Stir well. Serve with marshmallows, whipped cream, or a cheeky shot of Baileys. Now that's winter drinks done right!

Pro Tips: Hot Cocoa Secrets

Want to make the best hot cocoa mix ever? Here's some insider info. Don't cheap out on the cocoa powder.

Use Dutch processed. It makes a huge difference. Also, chop those chocolate chips finely. They melt better. Avoid overheating your milk.

Burnt milk is no good. It's not even like the good type of burnt. Store this chocolate mix in a cool, dry place.

Wanna make it a gift? These diy hot cocoa gifts are a winner. Put the mix in a pretty jar.

Tie it with a ribbon. Done! Looking for an easy hot cocoa recipe ? This is it. Honestly, you'll never buy store-bought again.

Recipe Notes: Level Up Your Hot Cocoa Recipe

Okay, so you've got the basic recipe down for this amazing homemade hot chocolate . But, like any good cook, you’re probably wondering how to tweak it, store it, and generally make it even better .

Here are some recipe notes, straight from my experience of making buckets of chocolate mix . I’m hoping to give great recommendations for your next batch of the best hot cocoa mix ever!

Serving Suggestions That Will Make You Swoon

Presentation matters! If you're serving this gourmet hot chocolate to guests, go the extra mile. Try using fancy mugs. A sprinkle of cocoa powder can add some pizzazz.

For an extra special touch, add a swirl of homemade whipped cream. Serve with shortbread cookies or biscotti. For the adults, a little bit of spiked hot cocoa with Baileys is a perfect winter drinks treat.

Storage Tips: Keep the Chocolatey Goodness Fresh

Refrigeration guidelines . This hot cocoa mix should never go in the fridge! It'll get all clumpy.

Freezing options . I don’t recommend freezing the mix. Honestly, it's so easy to make. Just whip up a fresh batch instead.

Reheating instructions . This only applies after you've made your drink. Reheat leftover hot cocoa gently in the microwave, about 30 seconds at a time. Stir well to avoid scalding.

Variations: Because Why Not?

• Dietary Adaptations : For a vegan version, use almond milk and dairy-free chocolate chips. You can also use coconut sugar instead of regular sugar. It's still delicious, I promise!
• Seasonal Swaps : In the autumn, add a pinch of pumpkin pie spice. In the spring, a little orange zest can brighten things up. Experiment. See what you like.

Nutrition Basics: A Little Bit of Indulgence

Let's be real, this isn't a health food. But, it does contain cocoa, which has antioxidants. Moderation is key! I'm no nutritionist, but I know that a little bit of happiness is good for the soul.

A mug of easy hot cocoa recipe can feel a bit like giving yourself a warm hug.

Okay, that’s the lowdown on my homemade hot chocolate tips! So what are you waiting for? Start brewing, and enjoy.

I will look forward to hearing that you are enjoying my diy hot cocoa gifts ! Enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does this homemade hot cocoa mix last, and how should I store it?

Your "Death By Chocolate" hot cocoa mix will happily keep for up to 3 months if stored correctly. Make sure to keep it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture. Think of it like your emergency biscuit stash; you want to keep it fresh!

Can I adjust the sweetness of this hot cocoa mix? I prefer mine a little less sugary.

Absolutely! The amount of sugar is easily adjustable to suit your personal preference. Start by reducing the granulated sugar by ¼ cup, and then taste test when you make a mug of hot cocoa. You can always add a bit more sugar to your individual serving if needed.

It's all about finding that perfect "Goldilocks" level of sweetness.

I'm vegan; can I still enjoy this hot cocoa? What substitutions can I make?

Yes, you can definitely make this hot cocoa mix vegan friendly! Swap out the milk chocolate chips for dairy-free chocolate chips and use a plant based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk when you prepare your mug. You can also use coconut sugar in place of granulated sugar in the mix itself.

Enjoy your guilt free, cruelty free cuppa!

What's the best way to prevent clumps when mixing the hot cocoa mix with milk?

Clumps are the bane of a good hot cocoa! The secret is to whisk the hot cocoa mix with a small amount of cold milk or water first to form a smooth paste. Then, gradually add the remaining hot milk while whisking continuously. This helps dissolve the cocoa powder evenly.

A milk frother can also help with this and create a luscious, creamy texture - think barista style!

Can I add other spices or flavors to my homemade hot cocoa mix to make it more interesting?

Definitely! Feel free to get creative and experiment with different spices and flavors. Peppermint extract is a classic addition for a festive twist, or try adding a pinch of chili powder or a dash of instant coffee for a mocha inspired flavour. A little orange zest can also brighten up the cocoa.

Think of your hot cocoa mix as a blank canvas for your culinary imagination!

Is there a difference between using water and milk when preparing my hot cocoa using this hot cocoa mix?

There is a BIG difference! While you can use water in a pinch, milk is highly recommended for a richer, creamier, and more decadent experience. Milk adds a certain luxuriousness to the drink because of its fat content. This makes it the perfect comfort on a cold day! Plus, you know, it's what the Queen would choose.