Hot Cocoa Time!

It is officially hot cocoa time! My family cannot wait for me to mix up a new batch of my hot cocoa mix. As soon as we have our first cool spell we are in the mood for hot cocoa!  Not the traditional hot milk with cocoa powder and sugar. AND, this mix tastes way better than the pre-mixed boxed stuff! It has more so much more chocolate flavor and is extra creamy! Also, not as sweet...but if you like yours sweeter, just add more powdered sugar to your mix.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 Extra Large Container (33 oz.) of Powdered Non-Dairy Creamer
• 1 Container of Nestle Nesquik powdered chocolate mix
• 1 container (8 oz.) of Hershey Special Dark Unsweetened Natural Cocoa powder
• 2 packets (9.6 oz each) Carnation powdered milk (you may use the regular cocoa powder as a substitute)
• 1 lb. powdered sugar (not shown in photo)

Additional supplies:

• 2 gallon size plastic zipper bag (I find this size at the Dollar Store)
• Several large storage containers with sealing lids

DIRECTIONS:

1. Open the extra large zipper style plastic storage bag.
2. Open and empty all containers into the storage bag. Be careful and sit the bag on a sturdy, solid surface as it will get very heavy and will try to topple over. It is a good idea to have a helper around for this step.
3. Close the zipper bag well!!!!!!!
4. Gently...and I mean GENTLY move the zipper bag around until it is well blended. I sometimes use packing tape to reinforce the seams...I have had a bag tear open and a cloud of mix went everywhere!!!!
5. Cut the tip of the bag over one of the containers. Fill slowly. Use multiple containers as necessary.
6. Store in dry area...and make sure your containers are airtight. 

TO MAKE HOT COCOA:

1. Scoop 1/4 to 1/2 cup of mix into a coffee mug.
2. Gently pour in very, very hot water, about 10 ounces.
3. Stir gently.
4. DRINK UP.
5. We like to top our cocoa with whipped cream and mini-marshmallows!

Try adding other flavors to your hot cocoa.

* A light shake of ground cinnamon or ground cloves

* Use a candy cane to stir your hot cocoa during the Christmas season!

*Add some cinnamon red hot candies to the cup before adding the hot water. DELICIOUS!

*1 teaspoon of instant coffee...or make the hot cocoa with hot coffee instead of hot water

*Try flavored creamers like French vanilla, or Caramel Macchaito.

*Add a shot of Irish Cream or Amaretto for the adults. YUM!