Homemade Hot Cocoa – Barefoot in the Kitchen

Just three simple ingredients to make rich, creamy homemade hot cocoa that tastes better than any packaged mix in the store. Milk, unsweetened cocoa powder, and sugar are all you need to make the ultimate comforting cup of rich cocoa.

You can serve the cocoa as is, or top it with marshmallows, whipped cream, powdered sugar, or even dip your candy canes in it to make mint cocoa. No matter how you choose to serve your cocoa, it’ll earn you a smile, too.

Homemade hot cocoa

Most of us grew up on the little packets of hot cocoa mix sold in stores. Whether we grew up in snowy weather or in the desert, these packages mean winter is here and now it’s time to play!

These packages are full of comforting nostalgia, but with just a measuring spoon and about 10 seconds, you can wrap your hands around a cup filled with homemade cocoa that tastes infinitely delicious and fresh.

While that’s proof enough on its own, there’s an added bonus: This easy homemade hot chocolate recipe is even more economical!

I’ve been making hot cocoa (without the packaging) for years and we love this peppermint hot chocolate too. (The cocoa mix also gets bonus points for making a great hostess gift!)

If you’re making hot cocoa for adults, this high-octane hot chocolate is great for any adult occasion – with a few drops of Kahlua and vodka added.

If you want to take it one step at a time, you can stir in a handful of rich chocolate chips at the end. The simple addition of homemade marshmallows makes this easy hot cocoa recipe worthy of a special occasion.

Hot Cocoa Recipe

To make this easy homemade hot cocoa mix, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• milk
• unsweetened cocoa powder
• sugar
• Optional: dark chocolate chips and marshmallows

Homemade hot chocolate

Stir together sugar and cocoa powder in a small saucepan until uniform in color. Add the milk and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until almost boiling.

Did you know you can make hot cocoa in a slow cooker? This is a great way to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate during the holidays or any time you know people might be having a cold day.

If you want to make your homemade hot chocolate mix recipe richer, add the chocolate chips to the mixture while it’s steaming hot and stir until melted. Pour into cups and top with marshmallows if you like.

{Originally published December 1, 2012 – Recipe instructions and photos updated January 27, 2025}