Don’t enjoy crowded places or feel stressed about finding the perfect gift? You’re not alone. I prefer to avoid the holiday rush in stores and often choose to give gifts that come straight from my kitchen.
My friends are accustomed to expecting homemade treats, like my favorite hot cocoa mix, as gifts. It’s a safe and delicious choice that’s universally appreciated.
Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix: An Ideal Gift
I’ve received some interesting food gifts over the years, so I aim for something appealing to everyone. A simple cocoa mix fits the bill, resolving my holiday gift anxiety with ease.
Endless Hot Cocoa Options
After trying numerous recipes, I found simplicity to be the key. Just cocoa powder, sugar, and a few flavorings. Dutch process cocoa’s rich color and flavor make it a favorite, but any cocoa will do. I’ve also added variations like Mexican and Peppermint Hot Chocolate for those who like to spice things up.
Homemade Cocoa Mix Tips
One professional tip is to blend extracts or citrus zest with the sugar, infusing it with enticing aromas. This technique enhances not just cocoa mix, but any dessert involving sugar—imagine the difference in a lemon cake with aromatic sugar!
Perfect Packaging for Homemade Gifts
Choose decorative jars and accessories for packaging. Attach instructions with crafted labels to personalize your gift. Your local office supply store might be a great resource for materials.
Enjoy a Cup for Yourself!
Remember to treat yourself with a spare jar. Enjoying hot cocoa on a chilly day is one of life’s simple pleasures.
Duration of Hot Cocoa Mix
Stored in airtight jars, your mix can stay fresh for 3-6 months on the shelf, even longer in the freezer.
Exciting Cocoa Additions
Enhance your cocoa with extras like mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, candy cane bits, or even a dash of spice.
- Mini marshmallows
- Chocolate chips
- Candy cane bits
- Chili powder
- Various spices
- Cinnamon sticks for stirring
- Instant coffee for a mocha twist
Pair Sweets with Hot Cocoa
Hot Cocoa Mix Recipe:
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons Dutch process cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Mexican Chocolate Cocoa Mix:
- Add 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon chili powder
Peppermint Cocoa Mix:
- 1 tablespoon mint extract
To make a cup:
- 4 teaspoons cocoa mix
- 3/4 cup milk
- Optional toppings: cinnamon or peppermint sticks, marshmallows, whipped cream
Blend the mix:
- Mix sugar and extract (plus zest for the Mexican version) thoroughly.
- Add cocoa, cornstarch, salt, and cinnamon if desired. Store in jars.
Make a cup:
- Mix 4 teaspoons of the cocoa mix with a tablespoon of cold milk until smooth.
- Add the remaining milk and blend well.
- Heat on the stove or microwave. Serve with toppings if desired.
- Rate and review to share your thoughts!
| Nutritional Facts (per serving) | |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 |
| Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 9g |
| Vitamin C | 2% |
| Calcium | 21% |
| Iron | 3% |
| Potassium | 11% |
| *Nutrition values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. | |
Garnishes and optional ingredients are not included in these estimates.
