Simple Journey Ministries Presents

Can I Have Some More, Please?

Decadent Hot Cocoa

 Hot cocoa is a winter drink that is not only comforting, but can create a wonderful setting for sharing memories with your family. A cup of cocoa gathered around the table while listening to an audio, cuddling on the sofa for a read aloud, or making breakfast a special time is some simple examples of the Hot Cocoa Effect. Our family really enjoys hot cocoa moments, so whenever we our headed out on an RV trip during I am sure to pack ingredients for hot cocoa. So over the past couple of weeks when I was checking my convenience inventory and found that I was running low it was time to re-stock. However, with my long To Do list and health issues on the forefront I decided to purchase this item in those little convenience packets. What a terrible costly mistake I made! Firstly, the cocoa tasted a bit like cardboard or something. Secondly, the cost per serving was astronomical compared with homemade. This is a mistake I won’t make again, especially since cocoa is SO easy to make. I have TWO tried and true recipes for hot cocoa; one instant (great for on the go) and one that is made stove top, for an absolutely decadent and rich cup of cocoa. Both of the recipes are ones you will want to make regularly and once you drink them, you will NOT want to go back to those pre-packaged types.

Instant Rich Hot Cocoa

7 cups powdered milk

1 lb confectioner sugar

2 cups cocoa powder

2 cups powdered nondairy creamer (flavored if desired)

2 cups mini marshmallows

1 cup mini chocolate chips

  1. Cook’s Note: You can replace the sugar and cocoa powder with a pre-made 4 cups chocolate milk mix like Nestlé’s Quik. If you do not have confectioner’s sugar on hand, simply use regular sugar and run it through your food processor until finely ground.
  2. Stir together the dry milk powder, confectioners’ sugar, cocoa powder, and creamer in larger bowl. Add chocolate chips and marshmallows.
  3. Place entire contents in zip style bags, plastic container, or glass jars.

To Use: Place about 1/3 of a c of mix into mug and pour boiling water on top (about ¾ of the mug). Stir.

 

Decadent Hot Cocoa

6 ½ c water

1 can sweetened condensed milk

½ c cocoa powder

2 tsp vanilla

Pinch of salt

  1. In a saucepan, heat water, milk, vanilla, and salt over medium heat. Whisk in cocoa until well incorporated. Do not boil.

Buono Appetito!