Ultimate Hot Chocolate Recipe – Vanilla Sugar & Cocoa Powder Blend

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Ultimate Hot Chocolate Recipe – Vanilla Sugar & Cocoa Powder Blend

Okay, let’s be real. Is there anything better than a steaming mug of hot chocolate on a chilly evening? I don’t think so! Especially when it’s made with a really good mix, and that’s exactly what I’m sharing today. This isn’t just any hot chocolate; it’s a vanilla sugar and cocoa powder blend that’s seriously next-level cozy. It’s so easy to whip up, and honestly, it tastes like a hug in a mug.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This hot chocolate mix is a game-changer. Forget those packets filled with who-knows-what! You control the ingredients, the sweetness, and the overall flavour. Plus, the vanilla sugar adds a subtle floral sweetness that elevates it beyond your average hot cocoa. It’s perfect for a quiet night in, a festive gathering, or just when you need a little bit of comfort. And it takes just 5 minutes to make the mix!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this dreamy hot chocolate:

• 1 cup cocoa powder (about 120g)
• 1 cup vanilla sugar (about 200g)
• 1 tablespoon salt (about 15g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Using good quality cocoa powder and vanilla sugar really makes a difference.

Vanilla Sugar: I’m obsessed with vanilla sugar. It’s so much more than just sugar with vanilla flavour! Traditionally, it’s made by burying vanilla beans in a jar of sugar for weeks (or even months!). The sugar absorbs the incredible aroma and flavour of the vanilla. You can find it in most well-stocked grocery stores now, or even make your own! It adds a beautiful, delicate sweetness that’s just… chef’s kiss.

Cocoa Powder: You have a couple of options here. Dutch-processed cocoa powder has been treated to neutralize its acidity, resulting in a smoother, milder flavour. Natural cocoa powder is more acidic and has a bolder, more intense chocolate taste. Either will work beautifully, but Dutch-processed is generally preferred for hot chocolate as it blends more easily and has a richer colour.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get mixing! It’s seriously simple.

1. Grab a large bowl. This gives you plenty of room to work.
2. Pour in the cocoa powder, vanilla sugar, and salt.
3. Now, whisk everything together really well. You want to make sure there are no lumps and everything is evenly combined. This usually takes a minute or two.
4. Once it’s all blended, transfer the mix to an airtight jar or container. This keeps it fresh and makes it easy to grab when you’re craving hot chocolate.

And that’s it! The mix is ready.

Expert Tips

• Sifting: If you’re worried about lumps in your cocoa powder, give it a quick sift before adding it to the bowl.
• Taste Test: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt to your liking. A little goes a long way!
• Storage is Key: Keeping the mix airtight is crucial for maintaining its flavour and preventing it from absorbing moisture.

Variations

This recipe is a fantastic base for all sorts of hot chocolate adventures!

• Spice Level: My friend Priya loves adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom to her hot chocolate. It adds a lovely warmth, especially during the winter months. About ¼ to ½ teaspoon is perfect.
• Vegan Adaptations: Absolutely! Just use your favourite plant-based milk – almond, oat, soy, or coconut all work beautifully. Oat milk creates a particularly creamy texture.
• Festival Adaptations: During Christmas, my family loves adding a tiny drop of peppermint extract to the mix for a festive twist. For Winter Solstice, a sprinkle of nutmeg feels particularly cozy.

Serving Suggestions

To make a mug of hot chocolate:

1. Heat 1 cup (240ml) of milk (dairy or plant-based) in a saucepan or microwave. Don’t let it boil!
2. Add 2 teaspoons of the hot chocolate mix (or more, to taste!) and stir until it’s completely dissolved.
3. Now for the fun part: toppings! Marshmallows, whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce… go wild!

Storage Instructions

This hot chocolate mix stays fresh for up to 3 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. I usually make a big batch and it lasts me ages!

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions:

How long does this hot chocolate mix stay fresh?

Up to 3 months in an airtight container.

Can I make this hot chocolate mix ahead of time?

Absolutely! It’s actually better if you let it sit for a day or two to allow the flavours to meld.

What’s the best type of milk to use for this recipe?

Any milk you like! Dairy milk will give you a classic, creamy texture. Plant-based milks are a great alternative, and oat milk is particularly good for a creamy vegan hot chocolate.

Can I adjust the sweetness level?

Definitely! Start with 2 teaspoons of mix per cup of milk and adjust to your preference. You can always add more!

Is vanilla sugar the same as vanilla extract?

No, they’re not the same! Vanilla sugar is sugar that has been infused with vanilla flavour, while vanilla extract is a concentrated liquid flavouring. They can’t be substituted directly in this recipe.