How to Make Homemade Hot Cocoa
This rich and creamy homemade hot Cocoa is a delicious treat to enjoy any time of the day. With a few ingredients from your pantry, you can have a hot cup to warm you up in about five minutes.
Nothing beats a steaming mug of hot cocoa on a cold day, especially when made from scratch with love. This homemade hot chocolate recipe is simple and versatile. It delivers a creamy texture with a rich chocolate flavor that’ll warm your soul. Whether you’re cozying up by the fire or sharing a treat on Christmas Eve, this recipe will surely become a family favorite.
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Now that the colder days are upon us, my clan always looks forward to our favorite hot beverage to warm us up. I will whip up some on the stove if I don’t have my Homemade hot cocoa mix on hand. You will be sure to add this hot beverage recipe to your list to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This creamy homemade hot chocolate recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have. It’s perfect for a cold night, a family gathering, or just because you deserve a delicious treat. Customize it to your liking and store any leftovers in the fridge to enjoy next time. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your recipe card or bookmark it for future reference!
Equipment Needed
Large Saucepan
Whisk
Mug
Spoon
Ingredients needed
1/2 c Unsweetened Cocoa
1 14oz Condensed Milk
1/8 tsp Kosher Salt
1 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
6 1/2 c Water
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Combine Condensed Milk, vanilla extract, unsweetened Cocoa, and kosher salt in a large saucepan.
- Whisk together over medium heat.
- Stirring occasionally, add water slowly until hot.
- Ladle hot Cocoa into a mug
Add marshmallows or whipped cream if you desire & enjoy

Try these toppings to add to your hot Cocoa for a yummy treat!
- Whipped Cream
- Mini Marshmallows
- Chocolate Shavings
- FestiveCandy Cane
- Caramel Drizzle
- Sprinkle of Cinnamon.
- Milk Chocolate Chips
- Peppermint
- Chocolate Morsels
Helpful Tips When Making Homemade Hot Cocoa Recipe
Using these helpful tips and quality ingredients, you’ll always achieve the perfect balance of sweetness, thickness, and flavor—without the risk of overheating your creation! Here are some helpful tips for using unsweetened cocoa, condensed milk, kosher salt, vanilla extract, and water to craft the perfect homemade hot cocoa while keeping in mind the importance of quality ingredients, achieving the ideal thickness, and avoiding overheating:
Unsweetened Cocoa
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality cocoa powder, such as natural or Dutch-processed, for a richer and smoother chocolate flavor.
- Avoid Overheating: Bloom the cocoa by whisking it into warm water or milk over medium-low heat. Overheating can scorch the cocoa and give it a bitter taste.
- Thicker Cocoa: For a creamier result, combine the cocoa with a splash of condensed milk before adding the rest of the liquid.
Condensed Milk
- Making It Thicker: Condensed milk naturally thickens hot cocoa while adding sweetness, making it perfect for a luxurious texture.
- Quality Over Quantity: Use good-quality condensed milk for a rich, creamy base. Start with a small amount and adjust based on your sweetness preference.
- Don’t Overheat: Add condensed milk during the final stages of heating and stir gently to prevent it from curdling.
Kosher Salt
- Enhance Flavor: A pinch of kosher salt elevates the chocolatey notes and balances the sweetness. Use sparingly for best results.
- Mix with Warm Liquids: Dissolve the salt fully in warm water or milk to ensure it’s evenly distributed without creating salty pockets.
- Avoid Overheating: Stir gently as the cocoa heats to avoid scorching, which can diminish the balance that the salt brings.
Vanilla Extract
- Use After Heating: Add vanilla extract after removing the cocoa from the heat to preserve its delicate flavor and avoid burning off its aroma.
- Go for Quality Ingredients: Pure vanilla extract offers a much more robust flavor than artificial alternatives.
- Enhance Thickness: Pair vanilla with condensed milk for a thicker, creamier texture and a well-rounded flavor.
Troubleshooting Tips
By keeping these troubleshooting tips in mind, you can ensure a perfect, creamy, and flavorful mug of hot cocoa every time. When making homemade hot cocoa, small hiccups can happen. Here’s how to troubleshoot common issues to ensure your cup is perfect every time:
Cocoa Powder Clumps
Problem: Clumps of cocoa powder remain in the mixture.
Solution:
- Sift the Cocoa: Always sift unsweetened cocoa powder before adding it to the recipe.
- Create a Slurry: Mix the cocoa powder with a small amount of warm water or milk first to create a smooth paste before incorporating it into the liquid.
- Whisk Vigorously: Use a whisk to blend the cocoa into the liquid thoroughly.
Hot Cocoa Too Thin
Problem: The cocoa feels watery instead of creamy.
Solution:
- Thicken with Condensed Milk: Add a tablespoon or two of condensed milk for extra creaminess.
- Adjust Liquids: Next time, use less water or milk to achieve a thicker consistency.
- Simmer Slowly: Heat the cocoa on medium-low heat to allow it to thicken naturally.
Grainy Texture
Problem: The hot cocoa has a gritty or grainy texture.
Solution:
- Use Medium Heat: Overheating can cause the sugars and cocoa to crystallize. Keep the heat medium-low.
- Dissolve Dry Ingredients: Combine cocoa powder, sugar, and salt with hot water to dissolve them fully before adding the milk.
- Stir Constantly: Keep stirring as the mixture heats to ensure everything melts evenly.
Burnt or Scorched Cocoa
Problem: The cocoa tastes burnt or smells scorched.
Solution:
- Don’t Overheat: Heat the mixture gently over medium or medium-low heat. Avoid bringing it to a boil.
- Stir Continuously: Regularly stir the cocoa to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Use the Right Pan: A heavy-bottomed saucepan helps distribute heat evenly and reduces the risk of scorching.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
These tips ensure your hot cocoa stays rich and delicious, even when prepared ahead!
- Storing Leftovers: Pour leftover hot cocoa into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.
- Reheating: Gently warm it in a small saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, or microwave in short intervals to avoid overheating.
Make-Ahead for Parties:
Prepare a big batch using a slow cooker to keep it warm for hours.
How to heat up leftover hot Cocoa
Add to saucepan & heat on the stovetop. Stirring occasionally until hot. To Microwave, use a microwave-safe mug or measuring pitcher for about 2-3 minutes. Add more time if needed. Store in a container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days.

Commonly Asked Questions
What type of cocoa powder is best?
Use natural cocoa powder for a classic taste or Dutch-processed cocoa powder for a smoother, less acidic flavor.
Can I make a big batch?
Yes! Multiply the recipe, prepare it in a slow cooker, and keep it warm for hours.
What if I don’t have whole milk?
For a lighter option, you can use skim, almond, or soy milk or a mix of milk powder and water.
How can I store leftovers?
Pour cooled hot cocoa into an airtight container and refrigerate. Reheat gently on medium heat.
How do I make it extra creamy?
Add a splash of heavy cream, or use a combination of whole milk and coconut milk.

Homemade Hot Cocoa Recipe
rich & creamy homemade hot Cocoa
Ingredients
- 1/2 c Unsweetened Cocoa
- 1 14oz Condensed Milk
- 1/8 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1 1/2 tsp Vanilla Extract
- 6 1/2 c Water
Instructions
In a large saucepan, combine Condensed Milk, vanilla extract, unsweetened Cocoa, and kosher salt. Whisk together over medium heat. Stirring occasionally, add water slowly until hot. Ladle hot Cocoa into a mug, add marshmallows or whip cream if you desire & enjoy!
Notes
Store in a container and refrigerate for up to 3-5 days. How to heat up leftover hot Cocoa
Add to saucepan & heat on the stovetop. Stirring occasionally until hot. To Microwave, use a microwave-safe mug or measuring pitcher for about 2-3 minutes. Add more time if needed.
Be careful, it's hot!
Nutrition Information
Yield 6 Serving Size 1Amount Per Serving Calories 316Total Fat 8gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 30mgSodium 149mgCarbohydrates 53gFiber 1gSugar 49gProtein 8g
Calculated Nutrition is an estimate.
Final Thoughts…
This easy hot chocolate recipe is made with simple ingredients you likely already have. With the commonly used ingredients, it makes the best homemade hot chocolate. It’s perfect for a cold night, a family gathering, or just because you deserve a delicious treat.
Customize it to your liking and store any leftovers in the fridge to enjoy next time. Don’t forget to save this recipe to your recipe card or bookmark it for future reference!
Did you try making this recipe for hot Cocoa? Let me know how you like it in the comments below.
Stay warm, friends!
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Homemade hot cocoa is the BEST. Love this recipe, thank you for sharing!
Do you think you could make this with regular milk? If so would you make any changes?
Sounds delicious!
This looks great! We can definitely use a cup of hot cocoa today. Temps were in the teens. Very cold and snowy outside. I always remember drinking hot cocoa with my cousins after a long day of sled riding.
Oh wow, stay warm! It is a family fave in my home too 🙂
Going to try this with my kids today, thank you!
Yay! Thank you 🙂