Who doesn’t love a cup of tasty homemade hot cocoa? There’s just something about wrapping your hands around a warm mug that feels like a hug from the inside. 

While those store-bought hot cocoa packets are super convenient, once you try making it from scratch, you’ll never go back. Homemade hot cocoa is richer, creamier, and completely customizable—plus, it’s easier to make than you think!

Now, you can absolutely take this up a notch by adding a splash of whiskey for an adult version, tossing in some marshmallows, or sprinkling in a pinch of cinnamon. But today, I’m sharing the classic version—the one I make for my husband, who I lovingly call Santa because the man loves his hot cocoa. 

It’s a winter staple in our house, especially on chilly days when all you want is something warm and comforting.

This recipe is low-carb and sugar-free since we don’t consume regular sugar, but you can easily swap in granulated sugar if that’s your thing.

Either way, it’s an indulgence that feels completely guilt-free—and I’m here for it.

Fun fact: Did you know cocoa powder is packed with antioxidants, flavanols, and polyphenols? So, if you ever needed an excuse to enjoy a cup, consider it healthy (at least in our mind, haha).

I love making it all year long, but it hits the spot the most during snowy winter days.

Feel free to get creative with add-ins—cinnamon, peppermint extract, or even a little cayenne for a spicy kick. Let me know how you like it!

If you make this tasty beverage please tag me on social media, and share it with your friends.

Hugs!

Sanna

Cocoa Powder I would recommend:

BetterBody Foods Organic Cacao Powder

You can follow me on Instagram @mugofreality & Pinterest @MugOfReality

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Tasty Homemade Hot Cocoa

February 15, 2025

Servings: 1 Serving

Prep: 2 min

Cook: 8 min

Total: 10 min

Difficulty: Easy

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Feel free to get creative with add-ins—cinnamon, peppermint extract, or even a little cayenne for a spicy kick. Let me know how you like it!

By: Sanna

Ingredients

• 1 cup whole milk, or any milk of choice
• 2 tbsp heavy cream, optional for extra creaminess
• 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1-2 tsp powdered sweetener
• monk fruit, or stevia
• ¼ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• Cinnamon, marshmallows, whipped cream or grated dark chocolate for topping, optional

Directions

• Step 1 In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm milk and heavy cream (if using) until hot but not boiling.
• Step 2 Whisk in the cocoa powder, sweetener, and salt until fully dissolved.
• Step 3 Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
• Step 4 Cinnamon, Marshmallows, Whipped cream or grated dark chocolate, if desired