This time of year seems perfect to share this recipe for easy, homemade hot cocoa.

I’ve always made most everything from scratch. My family thinks the food tastes so much better than store bought. From icing for cakes, to candies, and even hot cocoa mixes. And besides, pre-packaged mixes, and even other items are filled with all kinds of preservatives.

Take pre-packaged hot cocoa mix for example. It contains things like…

• Dipotassium phosphate – Wikipedia says this is “a highly-water soluble salt which is often used as a fertilizer, food additive  and buffering agent. It is a common source of phosphorus and potassium.” Yikes!
• Mono- and Diglycerides – These are emulsifiers that hold the hydrogenated fat together with the water you’re about to add. Okay.
• Carrageenan – It is a thickener, made from seaweed. Although in previous drug studies of new drugs, it has been shown to cause inflammation.
• Artificial Flavor? Hmm…

I could expand on more health concerns, but you get the idea. And while these homemade mixes don’t have a shelf life as long as pre-packaged products, they’re better for you in the long run. So much better.

Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix

• 2 cups Confectioners Sugar
• 1 cup Unsweetened Cocoa Powder
• 2 cups Powdered Milk or Instant Nonfat Dry Milk

1. In a large bowl, sift the confectioner’s sugar, then the unsweetened cocoa, to get rid of any lumps. Stir in the powdered milk, and whisk well until everything is combined. I use an easy, tried-and-true method when recipes call for sifting confectioner’s sugar or cocoa. You can find my kitchen tip method in the link below –

   Kitchen Tip – How to Sift Powdered Sugar The Easy Way

   • I also use the back of a large, plastic spoon to break up any remaining lumps.

2. In a large bowl, sift the confectioner’s sugar, then the unsweetened cocoa, to get rid of any lumps. Stir in the powdered milk, and whisk well until everything is combined.
3. Store mixes in clean, dry mason jars or any other airtight container. Add mini marshmallows to the container, if desired.

• This can be stored in the pantry for up to 6 months.

When you want to make hot cocoa, combine equal parts hot cocoa mix and hot water and stir well.

Tips for the perfect cup of hot cocoa:
• I suggest 1/2 cup mix to 1/2 cup hot water for the perfect portion.
• To avoid lumps of cocoa on top of the water add the cocoa mix to the cup first, then add hot water.

These homemade mixes make wonderful gifts, too.

“And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us.” – John 1:14

Thanks be to God!

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