Hot Cocoa Mix

OK, so this may not be the healthiest hot cocoa (is there such a thing?), but it is a tasty winter treat that you can probably indulge in on occasion. It also makes a great gift - put it into a cellophane bag and top it with marshmallows and plop it into a pretty mug. What a great way to share your appreciation without spending an arm and a leg or risking giving something useless.

I have it on good authority (my 13 year old, who is a bit of a cocoa snob) that this is the best mix he has tried so far.

This makes a HUGE batch - so you should have plenty for the whole winter, even if you give some as gifts! My mom likes to wrap a coffee can in tin foil and put a bag of the mix inside as a gift.

Mom's Cocoa Mix (compliments of my mom)

- one box (10 2/3 cups) of instant powdered milk

- one can (16 ounces) instant chocolate drink mix (like Nesquik)

- 2 cups powdered sugar

- 6 cups powdered nondairy creamer

Mix all together (this requires your largest bowl - for sure). Add in mini marshmallows (about 1 bag ($.88 at Aldi)), if you'd like.

I put some in a smaller container for regular use and store the rest in a large container in the pantry.

Add 2-3 tablespoons to one cup of hot water or hot milk (for a super rich cup of cocoa).

If you are looking for something a bit more sophisticated, try Homemade Vanilla Chai Tea - a tasty mix I enjoy often in the winter! I blogged about it here, also.

This post participates in both the Recipe Swap at The Grocery Cart Challenge and Ultimate Recipe Swap @ Life As Mom (because you can never have too many recipes!!)