Stop buying the packets. This HOMEMADE HOT CHOCOLATE recipe uses pantry staples to make a rich, creamy drink that actually tastes like chocolate. It is easy to adjust the sweetness and takes less than five minutes to make.
I have a hard time with store-bought hot cocoa mixes these days. They are always way too sweet and usually taste more like artificial vanilla and corn syrup than actual chocolate. I want something that feels rich and comforting without giving me a sugar crash immediately after.
This recipe solves that problem perfectly. You get a deep chocolate flavor because we are using real cocoa powder, and you can control exactly how much sugar goes in. It is perfect for a quiet night in or when you just need a moment to slow down and enjoy something warm.
IN THIS RECIPE...
What to know about the ingredients
- COCOA POWDER: The quality of your cocoa powder really matters here since it is the main flavor. I prefer using Dutch-processed cocoa powder if I have it. It is darker and has a smoother, less acidic flavor than regular natural cocoa powder. If you only have the standard grocery store tub, that works fine too, but you might want to add a tiny bit more sugar to balance the bitterness.
- MILK: I always use whole milk for this. The fat content is what gives the drink that rich mouthfeel. If you use skim milk or water, it is going to taste thin and watery. If you are dairy-free, oat milk is my favorite substitute because it has a natural creaminess that almond milk sometimes lacks.
- SUGAR: White granulated sugar is the standard here because it dissolves cleanly and doesn’t interfere with the chocolate flavor. You can use brown sugar if you want a slight caramel note, or even maple syrup. Just keep in mind that liquid sweeteners will make the drink slightly thinner.
SALT: It sounds weird to add salt to a sweet drink, but it is necessary. Salt blocks the bitterness of the cocoa and makes the sugar taste sweeter without having to add more of it. Just a small pinch makes a huge difference in the final flavor.
Which method should I choose?
The Paste Method (In the Mug)
I use this method about 90% of the time because it is fast and creates fewer dishes. The reason we make a paste is that cocoa powder is hydrophobic—it literally repels water. If you dump the powder into a full cup of milk, it forms a protective shell around itself and creates those dry, dusty clumps that pop in your mouth. By mixing it with a tiny bit of liquid first, you force the powder to hydrate completely before adding the rest of the milk. It guarantees a smooth drink every time.
The Stovetop Method (In the Pot)
This method takes a few minutes longer, but it does taste slightly better. Cooking the cocoa powder on the stove does something called “blooming.” The heat helps release the cocoa butter in the powder and deepens the flavor, removing that raw, chalky taste you sometimes get with quick mixes. This is the best route if you are making hot chocolate for more than one person or if you really want that “cafe quality” smoothness.
Variations
Once you have the base recipe down, you can easily change it up based on your mood:
- PEPPERMINT HOT COCOA: Add a drop of peppermint extract or stir the drink with a candy cane.
- MEXICAN HOT CHOCOLATE: Add a tiny pinch of cayenne pepper along with the cinnamon for a spicy kick.
- MOCHA: Replace half of the milk with strong hot coffee.
PEANUT BUTTER CUP: Stir in a teaspoon of creamy peanut butter while the milk is hot.
Related Recipes
Creamy Homemade Hot Chocolate (With Cocoa Powder)
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar or sweetener of your choice
- 1 pinch salt
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 pinch cinnamon optional
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract optional
Instructions
Method 1: Paste Method (Single Mug)
- Add the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using) to the bottom of your mug.1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 pinch salt, 1 pinch cinnamon
- Heat up the heavy cream and add it to the mug.2 tablespoons heavy cream
- Stir vigorously until the mixture turns into a smooth, dark syrup. Make sure you mash any dry lumps against the side of the mug.
- Heat your milk in a separate container (microwave or stovetop) until it is hot.1 cup milk
- Pour the hot milk into the mug with the chocolate paste and stir gently to combine.1 cup milk
- Stir in the vanilla extract (if using) and enjoy!¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
Method 2: Stovetop Method (For Smoother Flavor)
- In a small saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder, sugar, salt, and cinnamon (if using).1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder, 1-2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 1 pinch salt, 1 pinch cinnamon
- Pour the heavy cream and cold milk into the saucepan.2 tablespoons heavy cream, 1 cup milk
- Turn the heat to medium and start whisking immediately.
- Keep whisking as the milk warms up. The powder will eventually dissolve completely into the liquid.
- Heat until you see steam rising and small bubbles around the edge. Do not let it boil over.
- Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla extract (if using), pour into your mug, and enjoy!¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
