The Very Best Hot Cocoa Mix Recipes

Steps:

• Combine the cocoa, sugar and pinch of salt in a saucepan. Blend in the boiling water. Bring this mixture to an easy boil while you stir. Simmer and stir for about 2 minutes. Watch that it doesn't scorch. Stir in 3 1/2 cups of milk and heat until very hot, but do not boil! Remove from heat and add vanilla. Divide between 4 mugs. Add the cream to the mugs of cocoa to cool it to drinking temperature.

Steps:

• In an airtight container, combine all ingredients. Store in a cool, dry place up to 6 months. Yield: 13 cups mix (about 41 servings). , To prepare: Dissolve 4-5 tablespoons mix with 1 cup boiling water; stir well. , For spiced cocoa: Add 1-1/2 teaspoons ground nutmeg plus 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon to 3 cups of the basic cocoa mix. , For mocha cocoa: Add 1/4 cup instant coffee granules to 3 cups of the basic cocoa mix.

Steps:

• Combine ingredients in large bowl.
• Working in two batches, pulse ingredients in food processor until chocolate is finely ground.
• Store in airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Too make hot cocoa, stir 1/3 cup of the mix into 1 cup of hot (not boiling) milk.
• Top with whipped cream or mini marshmallows and a little chocolate powder. I sometimes use cinnamon or nutmeg powder, instead. A little brandy and a crackling fire make for a real treat!