What is the difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate?
But it’s truly a personal preference of what you call your mug of chocolatey goodness. I grew up saying hot chocolate, so that is what works best for me!
What is the best cocoa powder to use in my hot chocolate?
Where can I buy cocoa powder?
Cocoa powder is a common ingredient, so it’s found in many stores. However, the variety and choices for different brands will vary greatly depending on where you shop.
- Amazon has a wide variety of cocoa powder options for any price point. Plus, the customer reviews are always helpful. You can check out their selection of cocoa powder options here.
- Grocery stores, Walmart and Target may have fewer options, but are convenient places to shop for cocoa powder.
- Trader Joe’s, Aldi and Whole Foods are also great places to look for alternative cocoa powder brands.
How do I store cocoa powder?
Chances are you won’t use your entire container of cocoa powder just for hot chocolate.
The good news is it can also be used in other recipes like brownies, cake and cookies. You might enjoy these classic fudgy walnut brownies or these chocolate peanut butter brownies that both use cocoa powder.
While you’re deciding on your next recipe, here are some handy tips for storing your cocoa powder.
- The general rule of thumb is to store cocoa powder in a cool, dry place.
- Store at room temperature, not the freezer or refrigerator.
- Store in an airtight container in the pantry.
- Unopened cocoa powder can last up to 3 years.
- If stored properly, an open container of cocoa powder is typically good for up to 1 year.
- Cocoa powder usually doesn’t go bad, but it does lose its flavor over time.
Is cocoa powder healthy? Is it healthier than chocolate?
9 Delicious Recipes for Hot Chocolate With Cocoa Powder
These warm and comforting hot chocolate recipes feature cocoa powder as a main ingredients. Enjoy!
Homemade Hot Chocolate Like Grandma Made
This classic Homemade Hot Chocolate Like Grandma Made recipe tastes exactly like the title states: it's creamy and an original recipe that will have you basking in childhood memories. Sweetened and made from scratch, it's a delicious and entirely cozy treat.
Ingredient List:
- milk
- cocoa powder
- real maple syrup
- white sugar
- whipped cream
- chocolate candy bar
- hot fudge sauce
Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a fun treat and made with real candy canes! Made in a blender, this easy recipe consists of only six ingredients and is ready in no time. The entire family will love this recipe.
Ingredient List:
- whole milk
- granulated sugar
- unsweetened cocoa powder
- bittersweet or semi-sweet chocolate
- vanilla extract
- candy canes
Healthy Hot Chocolate
Healthy Hot Chocolate is made with walnuts and comforting flavors of cocoa and vanilla. Sweetened with maple syrup or honey, this rich beverage is a great alternative to not-so-healthy recipes.
Ingredient List:
Raspberry Hot Cocoa
Raspberry Hot Cocoa is the perfect way to wind down after a busy day out in the cold. Dairy-free and made with low glycemic sweeteners, you will love this vegan hot chocolate recipe that is both nourishing AND delicious!
Ingredient List
- water
- full-fat coconut milk
- raspberries, or frozen and thawed
- cocoa powder
- coconut sugar
- vanilla extract
- salt
- stevia (optional)
- coconut whip or marshmallows
- chocolate
Keto Hot Chocolate Recipe
This Keto Hot Chocolate Recipe is super low carb and great for anyone looking for a healthier treat. Ready in five minutes and made with only four ingredients, this easy recipe is a healthy spin on traditional hot chocolate recipes.
Ingredient List
- Almond Breeze Original AlmondMilk
- Heavy Cream
- Cocoa Powder
- Sweetener
Christmas Hot Chocolate
With just a few simple ingredients, this Christmas Hot Chocolate recipe is creamy and sweet! Made with a candy cane whipped cream, this decadent beverage is made with cocoa powder and ready in no time.
Ingredient List:
- heavy cream
- candy cane candies or candy canes broken into pieces
- red food coloring
- milk
- cocoa powder
- sugar
Bulletproof Hot Chocolate (Paleo, AIP, Keto, GAPS)
Bulletproof Hot Chocolate is healthy and sweet and great for any time of the day! Creamy and sweet, this beverage will certainly not weigh you down plus it's just so easy to make.
Ingredient List:
- milk of your choice
- butter, ghee or cocoa butter
- gelatin
- cocoa powder
- sweetener or your choice
Whipped Chocolate (Dalgona Chocolate) Hot Chocolate
Intrigued by the latest Dalgona trend? If so, then learn how to make this Whipped Chocolate (Dalgona Chocolate) Hot Chocolate and enjoy this frothy caffeine-free hip beverage. Sweet and fun to make, this easy hot chocolate recipe is fun for both kids and adults.
Ingredient List:
- aquafaba (this is the liquid in a can of chickpeas)
- cream of tartar
- cocoa powder
- confectioners sugar
- instant coffee + 2 tbsp hot water (or 1 shot of espresso)
- sugar
- ice
The Best Hot Chocolate Float Recipe
This Best Hot Chocolate Float Recipe is made with cocoa powder, rich chocolate chunks, vanilla, and creamy whipped cream. Homemade and fun to sip on, you'll never want to make the store-bought stuff ever again.
Ingredient List:
- milk
- dark chocolate chips/chunks
- cocoa powder
- sugar
- vanilla extract
- salt
- ice cream