Cozy Cinnamon Espresso Hot Cocoa Mix: Easy Homemade Gift
This Cozy Cinnamon Espresso Hot Cocoa Mix is a warm, comforting blend of rich chocolate, aromatic cinnamon, and a hint of espresso. Perfect for gifting or enjoying on a cold day, it’s quick to make and incredibly satisfying.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 20 servings 1x
- Category: Beverage
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup instant espresso powder
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon fine sea salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 cup milk (for serving)
- 3 to 4 tablespoons cocoa mix (for serving)
- Optional toppings: mini marshmallows, whipped cream, cinnamon stick, extra cocoa powder
Instructions
- Sift the dry ingredients: Place a fine-mesh sieve over a large mixing bowl. Add the unsweetened cocoa powder, instant espresso powder, and ground cinnamon. Sift them together into the bowl to break up any clumps.
- Add the sugar and salt: Add the granulated sugar, fine sea salt, and ground nutmeg to the bowl. Whisk everything together until the mixture is uniform in color, about 30 seconds.
- Check for clumps: Run your fingers through a small handful of the mix. If you feel any gritty lumps, press them through the sieve or break them up with the back of a spoon.
- Transfer to storage containers: Use a funnel to pour the mix into airtight jars or containers. Leave about an inch of headspace at the top.
- Make a single serving: Heat 1 cup of milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until steaming but not boiling. Alternatively, microwave the milk in a mug for about 1 minute 30 seconds.
- Mix the cocoa: Add 3 to 4 tablespoons of the cocoa mix to your mug. Pour about 2 tablespoons of the hot milk over the mix and stir until it forms a smooth paste (slurry). Then pour in the remaining hot milk and stir well.
- Taste and adjust: Take a sip and adjust strength or sweetness as desired.
- Top and serve: Add mini marshmallows, whipped cream, or a cinnamon stick. Serve immediately.
Notes
Sifting the cocoa and espresso powder prevents lumps. Use hot milk instead of water for a creamier texture. Toasting the cinnamon before adding enhances flavor. The mix can be stored in an airtight container for up to 6 months. For a dairy-free version, use oat milk or almond milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 mug (made with 1 c
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 42
- Sodium: 180
- Fat: 8
- Saturated Fat: 5
- Carbohydrates: 48
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 8
Keywords: hot cocoa, cinnamon, espresso, homemade gift, easy, cozy, chocolate, coffee