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Cozy Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix in a Jar | Easy Homemade Gift

peppermint hot cocoa mix - featured image

This peppermint hot cocoa mix in a jar is a simple, thoughtful homemade gift that combines rich cocoa and cool peppermint for ultimate comfort. Layer ingredients in a jar for a beautiful present or a cozy drink on a cold day.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 cup powdered milk
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips
  • 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Extra crushed peppermint candies (for topping, optional)
  • Mini marshmallows (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Crush the peppermint candies: Place about 1/2 cup of candy canes or peppermint candies in a sturdy zip-top bag. Seal it tight, then use a rolling pin or the bottom of a heavy pan to crush them into small pieces. Set aside about 2 tablespoons for topping the jar later.
  2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, powdered milk, and salt until evenly combined and no clumps remain.
  3. Prepare your jar: Make sure your glass jar is clean and completely dry.
  4. Start layering: Using a funnel, pour about 1/3 of the dry mix into the jar. Tap the jar gently on the counter to settle the layer. Then add about 1/3 of the chopped dark chocolate and 1/3 of the crushed peppermint. Repeat this process two more times until the jar is full.
  5. Top it off: Sprinkle the reserved crushed peppermint on top of the final layer.
  6. Seal and decorate: Screw the lid on tightly. If giving as a gift, attach a tag with serving instructions: ‘Add 3 tablespoons of mix to 6-8 ounces of hot milk or water. Stir well and enjoy!’
  7. Make a cup to test: Heat about 6 ounces of milk (or water) until steaming. Add 3 heaping tablespoons of the mix and stir until everything is dissolved. Taste and adjust if needed.

Notes

For best results, crush your own candy canes rather than using pre-crushed peppermint. The mix can be stored in a cool, dry place for up to 3 months. If giving as a gift, let the recipient know they can gently shake the jar before scooping. For a vegan version, use dairy-free powdered milk and dairy-free chocolate chips.

Nutrition

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