Why You Should Be Making Your Own Hot Chocolate Mix (2024)

FAQs

What are the benefits of hot chocolate mix? ›

The abundant antioxidants in cocoa, primarily flavonoids, contribute to cardiovascular well-being, enhancing blood flow and reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. These compounds also show the potential to fortify cognitive function and lift mood, offering a holistic approach to health.

Hot Cocoa Mix {Big Batch} is a powdery mix made with sugar, cocoa powder, and powdered milk that will be your go-to when it comes to mixing with hot water or milk.

Although hot chocolate doesn't necessarily need an even more creamy, decadent taste, using milk certainly enriches the experience. We suspect that milk adds a creamier taste than water alone, and when combined with the notes of chocolate, the smooth undertones of the milk simply add a delicious backdrop.

If you store your hot chocolate mix in an airtight container (mason jars are great for storing and gifting this mix), it will last all season long since all of the ingredients are shelf-stable! We just keep our mix in the cupboard so it's ready and within easy reach whenever we want to make a mug.

Antioxidant advantages: The primary ingredient in hot chocolate, cocoa, harbours a wealth of antioxidants known as flavonoids. “These potent compounds combat free radicals, thereby potentially mitigating the risk of chronic ailments and bolstering heart health,” said Amreen.

While not a typical weight loss aid, hot chocolate can fit into a weight loss plan if consumed in moderation, made with low-calorie ingredients, and used as an occasional treat to satisfy sweet cravings. Opting for low-fat or plant-based milk and minimizing added sugars can help reduce its calorie impact.

The source of the chocolate flavour is different. Hot Chocolate is made using solid chocolate melted in warm milk or cream. Hot Cocoa, however, is made from a powdered base of cocoa with added sugar and dissolved in hot water or hot milk.

Hot cocoa, however, is made from a powdered base of cocoa, sugar, and added flavorings. Occasionally, powdered hot cocoa packets will come with mini marshmallows in them. Consistency: Hot chocolate is a thick beverage made of melted, solid chocolate blended with milk, cream, or water.

Explanation: Hot water has more energy in it than cold water does. That means that the molecules in the water move faster. The molecules attack and break down the powder faster in hot water than cold.

How to make hot chocolate not watery? ›

Cornflour/Cornstarch: Mix a small amount with cold milk or water to create a smooth paste. Whisk this into your hot chocolate towards the end of the cooking process until it thickens. Double Cream: Stirring in a splash of double cream can instantly enrich and thicken your drink, giving it a velvety texture.

Salt accentuates sweetness and suppresses bitterness, while also functioning as a natural enhancer to bring out the flavor in chocolate. Simply adding a touch of salt in chocolate recipes can make the chocolate taste better by balancing out flavours and bringing out many subtle nuances.

The cornstarch version thickened quickly, making the hot chocolate very thick and creamy, and in the end we decided on a combination of cornstarch and confectioner's sugar, for the ideal texture and sweetness.

The short answer is yes, it can. While the powder typically has a long shelf life, it's not immune to spoilage. Typically, it lasts for around two years if you take care to store it properly. However, over time, its quality may degrade, resulting in changes in flavor, texture, and aroma.

Hot chocolate has been associated with improved mood and reduced stress levels due to its high cocoa content. The flavanols in cocoa have been linked to increased levels of serotonin, which helps to regulate mood and reduce anxiety. Additionally, theobromine in cocoa can help to reduce fatigue and improve alertness.

It's a drink associated with comfort and relaxation, making it an excellent choice for a soothing bedtime routine. The simple act of sipping a warm drink like hot chocolate can trigger feelings of tranquillity, signalling to your brain that it's time to wind down.

Mood-boosting effects: Drinking hot chocolate has been shown to increase levels of serotonin and endorphins in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce stress. A healthier option: Compared to coffee, hot chocolate contains less fat and calories and is a good source of antioxidants.

There is also some research that shows eating (or in this case drinking) dark chocolate or cacao may help promote gut health by selectively feeding beneficial bacteria, as opposed to harmful ones. It basically acts as a probiotic, thereby promoting a healthier gut microbiome.