DIY Double Chocolate Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix
- December 16, 2025
- 0 Comments
If there’s one thing that instantly brings cozy holiday vibes, it’s a warm mug of hot cocoa. And for Day 3 of my 5 Days of Christmas DIY Gifts Series, I’m sharing one of my favorite homemade gifts ever: DIY Double Chocolate Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix!
Why This Hot Cocoa Mix Is Different (and SO Much Better)
Most DIY hot cocoa mixes start with unsweetened cocoa powder as the base, but this one does things a little differently. Instead, I use hot chocolate mix as the base, which gives the cocoa an extra-rich, extra-chocolatey flavor that feels indulgent and comforting.
I’ll be honest, I love my hot cocoa sweet, creamy, and deeply chocolatey, and using hot cocoa mix instead of plain cocoa powder delivers that every single time. It creates a smoother texture, richer taste, and that nostalgic “holiday hot chocolate” flavor so many of us grew up loving.
That said, if you prefer a more bittersweet cocoa, you can absolutely substitute unsweetened cocoa powder as the base. This recipe is flexible and easy to customize, which makes it perfect for gifting.
Why DIY Hot Cocoa Mix Makes the Perfect Christmas Gift
Homemade hot cocoa mix is one of those gifts that feels cozy, thoughtful, and universally loved. It’s great for:
- Teachers
- Neighbors
- Coworkers
- Hostess gifts
- Holiday baskets
Packaged in a pretty jar with a festive tag, this peppermint hot cocoa mix looks like something you’d find in a specialty shop, but it’s made right at home, with love.
Supplies I Used (Gift Packaging)
To make these DIY hot cocoa gifts look polished and festive, I used:
DIY Double Chocolate Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix Ingredients
For one 32-ounce mason jar, you’ll need:
- 1½ cups hot chocolate mix
- ½ cup powdered milk
- ½ cup chocolate chips (I like using a mix of milk chocolate and dark chocolate)
- Crushed peppermint candies
- Mini marshmallows
- 1 (32 oz.) mason jar
This combination creates layers that look beautiful in the jar and melt into a rich, creamy hot cocoa once prepared.
How to Assemble the DIY Hot Cocoa Mix Jar
In a clean 32-ounce mason jar, layer:
- Hot chocolate mix
- Powdered milk
- Chocolate chips
- Crushed peppermint candies
- Mini marshmallows
Seal the jar tightly. Tie twine or ribbon around the lid and attach a gift tag with instructions. That’s it! Simple, festive, and gift-ready.
Tips for Customizing Your Hot Cocoa Mix
- Swap water for milk or oat milk for extra creaminess
- Add more dark chocolate chips for a richer cocoa
- Use white chocolate chips for a fun twist
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or espresso powder for depth
These little adjustments make it easy to tailor each jar to the person you’re gifting.
Be sure to check back every day this week for a new DIY gift idea, and don’t miss the step-by-step videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
DIY Double Chocolate Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix
Ingredients
- 1½ cups hot chocolate mix
- ½ cup powdered milk
- ½ cup chocolate chips I like using a mix of milk chocolate and dark chocolate
- Crushed peppermint candies
- Mini marshmallows
- 1 32 oz mason jar
Instructions
To Assemble the Gift Jar:
- In a clean 32-ounce mason jar, layer: Hot chocolate mix, Powdered milk, Chocolate chips, Crushed peppermint candies, and Mini marshmallows.
- Seal the jar tightly, and tie twine or ribbon around the lid and attach a gift tag with instructions.
How to Prepare the Double Chocolate Peppermint Hot Cocoa
- In a medium saucepan, whisk the prepared Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix with 5 cups of water.
- Cook over medium-low heat, whisking frequently, until warm, smooth, and the chocolate, peppermint candies, and marshmallows are fully melted—about 6 to 8 minutes.
- Do not let the mixture boil. Ladle into mugs and enjoy!
- For an even creamier version, you can substitute some or all of the water with milk or a dairy-free alternative.
Notes
Did you make this?
I’d love to know! Please let me know by leaving a review below. Or snap a photo and share it on Instagram; be sure to tag me @beautifuleatsandthings
