Take those packets to a whole new level with our favorite recipes using hot chocolate mix. We have ideas for cookies, milkshakes, pancakes and more.
6 Clever Ways to Use a Packet of Hot Cocoa Mix
Updated Oct. 25, 2022
Winter and hot cocoa go hand in hand. After all, there’s nothing more warming than a steaming, sweet mug of chocolaty goodness after time spent in the bitter cold.
But did you know there are more ways to use your favorite hot cocoa mix other than simply stirring it with milk? We’ll show you our favorite recipes using hot chocolate mix.
Psst! Have you tried hot cocoa bombs yet?
6 Ways to Use Hot Chocolate Mix
1. Bake Hot Chocolate Cookies
Want the ultimate indulgence after a day of sledding? Try Hot Chocolate Cookies with hot cocoa mix and marshmallow bits baked right into each bite. They taste amazing dunked into—you guessed it!—more hot cocoa.
2. Mix Into a Milkshake
Give a plain ol’ milkshake an extra-sweet twist by adding a packet or two of hot cocoa. We suggest opting for a mix without marshmallows to keep a smooth consistency. But don’t worry—you can always add a few on top! Learn how to make the perfect milkshake.
3. Add to Cupcake Batter
If your little ones have a knack for baking, our Kid-Made Cocoa Cupcakes recipe is a must-try. It features a rich, cocoa flavor and pairs well with almost any type of frosting. (Although we’re pretty partial to a big dollop of whipped cream!)
4. Whip! Whip! Whip!
Have you tried the whipped coffee trend? Take it to the next level by making whipped hot chocolate! You’ll need hot cocoa mix, hot water and heavy cream—plus a strong arm. Beat in a bowl until the mixture is nice and thick, then float on top of milk. Find more whipped drink ideas here.
5. Create a Coffee Shop Copycat
Instead of heading to your local cafe and forking over $5 for a drink, make a fancy beverage at home. This Mocha Mint Coffee combines hot cocoa mix, dulce de leche, sugar, coffee and peppermint chips for an indulgent pick-me-up. Bonus: You just add the ingredients to a slow cooker and it takes care of the rest.
6. Indulge in Hot Cocoa Pancakes
Start your day the right way—with hot cocoa pancakes! Simply add a few packets of mix to your favorite pancake batter and cook on the griddle. Serve with mini marshmallows, of course.
Warm Up With These Hot Chocolate Recipes
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Cozy Hot ChocolateSteaming mugs of these smooth beverages are a nice anytime treat with my husband, Ken.—Marie Hattrup, Sonoma, California
Also, check out the best hot chocolate mixes according to cocoa and cozy experts along with the best hot chocolate gift sets for your loved ones this season. Of course, a warm culinary delight can do wonders but a snow ice cream can be the perfect dessert for the season!
Hot Chocolate with MarshmallowsThis hot chocolate with marshmallows recipe isn't your average cup of hot cocoa. Melted marshmallows make this the fluffiest, frothiest, coziest cocoa you'll ever sip.
Honey-Bourbon Hot ChocolateMy husband and I like to enjoy this grown-up version of hot chocolate on a cold winter evening. It's even better made with honey-flavored bourbon if you can find that in your local store. —Andrea Harvath, Duncannon, Pennsylvania
Pumpkin Spice Hot ChocolatePumpkin spiced hot chocolate is a warming cinnamon and orange-infused dairy concoction with real pumpkin puree and white chocolate chips. A cloud of spiced whipped cream on top finishes it off.
Hot ChocolateIt is time to skip the mix! Learn how to make the best hot chocolate you have ever tasted. This decadent recipe is as easy as it is delicious.
Hazelnut Hot ChocolateVanilla beans and a hazelnut liqueur like Frangelico lend a sophisticated flavor to this hot chocolate. With such rich taste, it could be served as a dessert. —Michael Compean, Fountain Hills, Arizona
Landmark Hot ChocolateWith or without a nip of rum, my hot chocolate recipe has been a Wisconsin winter warmer for years. When the toboggan hills are calling, I skip the whipped cream and take a thermos to go. It’s always a hit and it ensures nobody is left out in the cold! —Mark Phillips, Bayfield, Wisconsin
Peppermint White Hot ChocolateMy soothing white hot chocolate is a great warm-up after a wintry day spent sledding or ice skating. Or include it as a festive addition to brunch or an afternoon tea party. —Darlene Brenden, Salem, Oregon
Favorite Hot ChocolateYou need just a few basic ingredients to stir up this spirit-warming sipper. The comforting beverage is smooth and not too sweet, making it just right for a cozy chilly night. —Flo Snodderly, North Vernon, Indiana
Mexican Hot ChocolateCold winter days beg for a sweet, warming and creamy beverage, but this Mexican hot chocolate recipe does even better. You’ll love the spicy aromas and touch of dark chocolate bitterness in every frothy cup.Â
Crackling Hot CocoaThis hot chocolate recipe is more than a warm-you-up—it's rich and thick decadence in a mug. —Cyndi Nistico, Palm Island, Florida
Vanilla Almond Hot CocoaTreat your family to this comforting, homemade cocoa as you decorate the tree or open holiday gifts. Vanilla and almond extracts make it taste even more special. —Vicki Holloway, Joelton, Tennessee
Kahlua Hot ChocolateElevate your cozy drink game with this spiked hot chocolate recipe featuring a touch of Kahlua. This rich and creamy beverage is easy to customize with your favorite spirits and toppings, perfect for chilly evenings or festive gatherings.
Hot Cocoa with Almond MilkThis wholesome vegan hot chocolate drink will leave you feeling warm and cozy on a cold, snowy day. Wrap yourself in a blanket, grab your favorite book and settle on the couch – this drink can be made in a matter of minutes.
Raspberry Hot CocoaGarnished with whipped cream, chocolate curls and raspberry-flavored marshmallows, this cool-weather favorite goes from everyday to extra-special. —Andrew McDowell, Lake Villa, Illinois
Ghostly Hot CocoaChocolate pudding mix is the convenient start to this clever cocoa mix. Kids of all ages get a kick out of the marshmallow ghost floating on top. —Ruby Gibson, Newton, North Carolina
Up Next, learn how to make hot chocolate brownies just like Christina Tosi, queen of sweet treats and nostalgic flavors, and some delicious whipped hot chocolate.
Originally Published: December 21, 2020
