My favorite hot cocoa mix recipe originally came from my 6th grade U.S. History teacher. It’s incredibly comforting and nostalgic, but the original makes a large quantity and includes some ingredients I try to avoid now.
With cold weather setting in, I decided to look for a simpler, smaller-batch mix I could make quickly at home. I tested a few recipes and settled on a version inspired by Alton Brown that balances rich chocolate flavor with pantry-friendly ingredients.
This hot cocoa mix is deep and chocolatey without being overly sweet. It won’t replace every nostalgic favorite, but it’s an excellent option when you want a fast, satisfying cup that uses common ingredients and stores well.
Hot Cocoa Mix
Good Eats – Alton Brown
Total Time: 5 minutes
Yield: about 5 ½ cups dry mix
Ingredients:
2 cups powdered sugar
1 cup cocoa powder (Dutch-process preferred for a smoother, less acidic flavor)
2 ½ cups powdered milk
1 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to taste)
Hot water or warm milk for serving
Instructions:
1. Combine the powdered sugar, cocoa, powdered milk, salt, cornstarch, and cayenne in a bowl. Whisk or sift together until evenly blended and free of lumps.
2. Store the dry mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Properly sealed, the mix will keep for months in the pantry.
3. To prepare a cup, add about half a cup of the dry mix to a mug (adjust depending on how rich you like it). Pour 4 to 6 ounces of hot water or warm milk over the mix and stir thoroughly until smooth and creamy. Heat or froth milk first if you prefer a richer texture.
Taste and notes:
– The powdered milk gives this mix a creamy body without needing to refrigerate the mix itself.
– Using Dutch-process cocoa yields a rounder, less bitter cocoa flavor; natural cocoa will work but will taste brighter and slightly more acidic.
– The cornstarch helps the drink feel silkier, especially when prepared with water.
– Cayenne is optional but adds a warm background note that complements the chocolate.
This mix is quick to prepare, stores conveniently, and makes several generous servings. If you want a richer cup, prepare it with warm whole milk instead of water. For a lower-sugar version, reduce the powdered sugar and taste as you go.
Big Flavors Rating: 4 Stars