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Creamy homemade hot chocolate powder in a glass jar with a mug of rich hot cocoa topped with whipped cream and marshmallows on a rustic wooden table
Vicky Sharma

Homemade Hot Chocolate Powder

This homemade hot chocolate powder is rich, creamy, chocolatey, and incredibly easy to make with simple pantry ingredients. Perfect for cozy winter nights, holiday gifting, or keeping stocked in your pantry, this homemade hot chocolate mix delivers café-style flavor in minutes.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 20 servings
Course: Drinks & Beverages
Cuisine: American
Calories: 140
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups powdered milk
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup mini chocolate chips or finely chopped semi-sweet chocolate
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla powder optional
For Serving
  • ¼ cup hot chocolate powder mix
  • 1 cup hot milk or hot water
  • Marshmallows or whipped cream optional

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Fine mesh sieve
  • Whisk
  • Airtight storage jar
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1
  1. In a large bowl, sift together the powdered milk, cocoa powder, powdered sugar, granulated sugar, salt, and cornstarch until smooth and lump-free.
    Sifting cocoa powder, powdered milk, and sugar together in a bowl for homemade hot chocolate powder
Step 2
  1. Stir in the mini chocolate chips or finely chopped chocolate until evenly combined.
    Mixing mini chocolate chips into a homemade hot chocolate mix in a glass bowl, the
Step 3
  1. Transfer the homemade hot chocolate mix to an airtight jar or container and store in a cool, dry place.
    Storing homemade hot chocolate powder in an airtight glass jar on a wooden counter
Step 4
  1. To make hot chocolate, add ¼ cup of the cocoa mix to a mug.
Step 5
  1. Pour in 1 cup of hot milk or hot water and whisk well until smooth and creamy.
Step 6
  1. Top with marshmallows, whipped cream, or chocolate shavings if desired, then serve immediately.
    Creamy homemade hot chocolate topped with whipped cream and marshmallows in a cozy winter setting

Video

Notes

Notes
  • Whole milk powder creates the creamiest texture.
  • Sifting the cocoa powder prevents clumps in the final drink.
  • For a richer flavor, use Dutch-processed cocoa powder.
  • Store the mix in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
  • For extra indulgence, prepare with warm whole milk instead of water.
Recipe Tips
  • Blend the dry mix briefly in a food processor for an ultra-fine café-style texture.
  • Add cinnamon or peppermint extract powder for holiday flavor variations.
  • Use mini chocolate chips because they melt faster than regular chocolate chunks.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving Approximate)
  • Calories: 140
  • Carbohydrates: 24g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Fat: 4g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Sugar: 20g
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Fibre: 2g
Storage
Store the homemade cocoa mix in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 months. Keep away from heat and humidity for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with:
  • Mini marshmallows
  • Homemade whipped cream
  • Crushed peppermint candies
  • Cinnamon sticks
  • Chocolate cookies or biscotti
Author Notes
I’ve tested this homemade hot chocolate powder recipe many times over the years, and the combination of cocoa powder, powdered milk, and real chocolate creates the perfect balance of richness and sweetness. It’s one of my favorite winter pantry staples and always gets rave reviews during the holidays.