It’s winter. And for some, winter means hot chocolate. And for those of you who don’t want to spend the effort to start from scratch every time a cup of cocoa is desired, I offer up this simple hot chocolate mix recipe.

Now, if you are planning to serve hot chocolate to several people over the age of 21, and desire a more sophisticated and adult version of this classic winter beverage, then stop reading and bring up my Mexican Hot Cocoa recipe. But if you are after a simple to prepare mix that any one in your family over the age of 12 can use to prepare a lovely cup of hot chocolate, then read on my friend.

And yes, I know you can buy cocoa mixes. But all those unpronounceable ingredients and the cost – forget it! Prepare a batch of this in early December or at your earliest convenience, tell your family it is there for the making, and walk away content in the fact that you have done your duty as kitchen Goddess/God in residence – aka mom/dad/spouse!

And if I didn’t already mention this, according to my dear husband, this recipe makes for a really good cup of hot chocolate.

So get thee to the kitchen and whip up a batch of this mix. It’s simple, delectable, and ever so user friendly.    

Hot Chocolate Mix:

1 c. cocoa powder (I use Ghirardelli Majestic Premium Cocoa Powder from Cash & Carry)

1 c. powdered sugar

1 c. instant nonfat dry milk

1 tsp. vanilla powder (available through Amazon)

1 tsp. cinnamon

pinch nutmeg  

pinch cayenne pepper, or more to taste

Whisk together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, powdered milk, vanilla powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cayenne. Store in an airtight container.

Hot Chocolate Drink: (makes 1 serving)

2-3 T. hot chocolate mix

1 c. boiling water

whipped cream, opt. (We use the canned stuff)

ground cinnamon, cinnamon stick, or chocolate sprinkles, opt.

Scoop cocoa mix into a mug. Stir or whisk in the boiling water. Top with whipped cream. Sprinkle lightly with cinnamon or garnish with a cinnamon stick.