Hot Chocolate Mix Recipe Without Dry Milk

If you're looking for a hot chocolate mix without dry milk, this recipe is for you! It's simple to make, easy to store, and perfect for customizing. Whether you like your hot chocolate with marshmallows, candy canes, or a pinch of cinnamon, this mix is great to have on hand for a quick, cozy treat.

Plus, it's easy to make dairy-free to fit different dietary needs. Perfect for sharing with family or enjoying by yourself on a chilly day!

Ingredients

• Unsweetened cocoa powder provides the rich, chocolatey flavor. Using unsweetened cocoa allows you to control the sweetness of the mix. (I recommend using a quality brand of cocoa powder.) If you prefer dark hot chocolate mix, feel free to use dark cocoa powder.
• Powdered coffee creamer adds creaminess and a smooth texture to the hot chocolate, giving it a velvety mouthfeel.
• Powdered sugar sweetens the mix and balances the bitterness of the cocoa powder, making the drink pleasantly sweet without being overpowering. (Feel free to use white sugar instead. Using white sugar in your hot chocolate mix will give a classic sweetness but may require more stirring to fully dissolve. Confectioners' sugar, on the other hand, dissolves quickly for a smoother texture, though it can add a slight thickness due to the cornstarch leaving a different mouthfeel.
• A Pinch of salt enhances the overall flavor by bringing out the richness of the cocoa and balancing the sweetness.

This combination gives you a well-rounded, rich, and customizable hot chocolate mix.

That's it - simple and easy!

Dairy Free Hot Chocolate Mix

This DIY hot chocolate mix without powdered milk can easily be made into a diary free version. Just make sure to use non-dairy creamer and serve it with oat milk, almond milk, or your favorite dairy alternative.

Most powdered creamer has sodium caseinate (A Milk Derivative) in the ingredients. Even though sodium caseinate can contain low levels of lactose, many people with lactose intolerance have no problems digesting it. However, if you are hyper sensitive to dairy, I would recommend using coconut milk creamer instead.

Can I Make This With Water Instead of Milk?

I recommend using whole milk or a milk alternative, like oat milk, coconut, or almond milk, since there's no powdered milk in this recipe. While water can be used, it won't give the drink the same rich, creamy texture.

Skim, or 2% milk are also fine to use but whole milk will give you the creamiest and most delicious homemade hot cocoa.

Does Hot Chocolate Mix Expire?

Yes, hot chocolate mix can expire, but it has a relatively long shelf life if stored properly. The ingredients in this homemade mix are shelf-stable. However, over time, the flavors can degrade, and the texture may change.

To maximize its freshness:

• Store the mix in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
• It can last for at least 3 to 4 months, but it's best to check for any off smells, changes in texture, or clumping before using.

If kept in a humid environment, the mix may spoil more quickly.

Hot Chocolate Mix in a Jar for Holiday Gifts

This recipe makes about a quart of hot chocolate mix. You could double or triple the recipe as many times as you want and divide it out into quart or pint jars to share as holiday gifts.

Here are some fun and creative ideas for gifting hot chocolate mix in a jar:

1. Layered Hot Chocolate Mix:

• Create a visually appealing jar by layering the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and powdered creamer.
• Add toppings like mini marshmallows, chocolate chips, or crushed candy canes in separate layers.
• Tie a festive ribbon around the jar, and attach a tag with instructions for making the hot chocolate.

2. Customizable Hot Chocolate Gift Set:

• Fill the jar with your hot chocolate mix and include small containers or sachets of add-ins like cinnamon, crushed mint candy, or flavored syrups.
• Package the jar with a cute mug, mini whisk, and a spoon for stirring.
• Add a personal touch by labeling the jar with a handwritten note or recipe card.

3. Holiday-Themed Hot Chocolate Jar:

• Use a holiday-themed mason jar or decorate a plain jar with seasonal stickers or paint.
• Attach a holiday ornament, candy cane, or a small cookie cutter to the jar for an extra festive touch.
• Include a gift tag with a holiday greeting and instructions for making the hot chocolate.

4. Personalized Hot Chocolate Kit:

• Layer the mix with special ingredients like white chocolate chips, caramel bits, or peppermint bark.
• Customize the jar for each recipient by adding their name or a short message to the label.
• Pair the jar with a homemade or store-bought cookie that complements the flavors of the hot chocolate.

Cozy Up With a Cup of Hot Chocolate

What is better after caroling, a fun sledding party, or any outdoor winter activity than a steaming cup of hot chocolate piled with marshamllows? With this easy recipe for homemade hot chocolate mix with no dry milk powder, you can easily customize and create steaming cups of rich hot chocolate that everyone will enjoy!

You can heat up a pot of milk, add the dry powder, and make enough for a whole crowd. Serve with marshmallows and crushed peppermint candy for a perfect winter treat!

Looking for an even richer treat, add a few chocolate chips to each cup along with the marshmallows. Enjoy!!

If you try this recipe for hot chocolate mix without powdered milk, I'd love it if you left a comment and star rating below. Thank you!