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A great way to warm up a large group or crowd. This from-scratch hot cocoa recipe can easily be doubled for even larger groups. Keep it warm in a crock pot and let your guests serve themselves.
serves/makes:
ready in:
under 30 minutes
11 reviews
3 comments
ingredients
1 1/2 cup sugar
1 1/4 cup cocoa powder
1 1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup hot water
1 gallon milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
directions
Combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a large saucepan or Dutch oven.
Add the hot water while stirring. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly, until it comes to a boil. Cook for 2 minutes at a strong boil, stirring constantly.
Reduce the heat to a low simmer. Whisk in the milk. Heat to serving temperature, stirring frequently. Do not let it boil or the milk may curdle.
Remove the pan from the heat and add the vanilla and cinnamon. Stir briskly with a whisk.
Serve hot in mugs with whipped cream or miniature marshmallows.
This recipe doubles easily. Keep warm in a crock pot if desired.
crock pot notes
Crock pots/slow cookers all heat differently. There is no standard among manufacturers. Cooking times are suggested guidelines based on our testing. Please adjust cooking times and temps to work with your brand and model of slow cooker.
recipe tips
For a richer cocoa, use part heavy cream and part milk.
To prevent lumps, sift the cocoa powder and sugar before adding to the pan.
For a spicier twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Serve with a cinnamon stick in each mug for added flavor.
For a mocha flavor, add a shot of espresso or strong coffee to each serving.
To keep the cocoa warm for guests, use a slow cooker on the low or warm setting.
Garnish with whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
If serving to adults, consider offering liqueurs like peppermint schnapps or Baileys to add to the cocoa.
Always stir the cocoa well before serving if it has been sitting for a while.
Offer a variety of toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles for guests to customize their drinks.
common recipe questions
Can I use a sugar substitute?
Yes, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, but adjust the amount based on the sweetness level of the substitute. Some sweetener substitutes are a 1 for 1 substitute (like Splenda) so consult the manufacturer's recommendations before using.
What can I use instead of cocoa powder?
For a different flavor, you can use carob powder, but it will change the taste significantly.
What type of milk should I use?
You can use any milk of your choice (whole, skim, 2), including almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Can I make this hot cocoa without vanilla extract?
Yes, but the vanilla adds to the flavor. You can add a different extract, if desired.
What can I use instead of ground cinnamon?
You can omit the cinnamon or use a pinch of nutmeg for a different flavor.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container and reheat in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave on 50-70% power so the milk doesn't curdle.
Can this hot cocoa be frozen?
It will become more watery/less flavorful but it technically can be frozen.
nutrition data for hot cocoa (large batch)
191 calories, 7 grams fat, 27 grams carbohydrates, 7 grams protein per serving.
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HOT CHOCOLATE FLOAT
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reviews & comments for hot cocoa (large batch)
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nancyvall55 December 25, 2022
What kind of salt? Table salt is quite a bit saltier than kosher salt.
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CDKitchen Staff Reply:
Unless specified, assume table salt. 1 1/4 teaspoons of table salt isn't much in this large a quantity of ingredients but it definitely helps brings out the chocolate flavor.
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jakesjag REVIEW:
March 14, 2021This ended up being good but I ended up using half the milk. I ended up having to purchase to half gallons because the grocery was out of gallon size. After putting in the first half gallon, I tasted it and thought it was good but still had 1/2 gallon to go. Called my husband in and he thought it was good too. For the crowd we expected I quick made a seperate batch. I would suggest tasting it after first half gallon to see what you think. Loved the cinnamon in it too.
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msmith75 December 10, 2020
I wonder if this could be kept in an electric roaster oven instead of a crockpot, for the size of the crowd I would be making it for...
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CDKitchen Staff Reply:
That would probably work.
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brendabbrown REVIEW:
December 8, 2020I made this for 50 kayakers who were participating in a Christmas boat event...added a little peppermint schnapps per request. They loved this beverage and I thought it was perfect, too! Oh...I forgot the vanilla and cinnamon...it was still great!
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Tiffany REVIEW:
December 23, 2019I made this for my son's class Christmas party. I used the servings calculator for 40 so we would have extra. Everyone thought this was the best cocoa they had ever had. Even the teachers came back for more!
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Nina10thgrade REVIEW:
June 5, 2017Stunning! And the serving fearure where i can input how many servings i want to make helped ne so much for my school project!! I nade 70 serving and it was PERFECT I really recommend but watch out not to burn the cinnimom.
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CDKitchen Staff Reply:
The cinnamon is added after it's removed from the heat (so there shouldn't be any way to burn it!)
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MsMeyer REVIEW:
December 8, 2016This is the hot chocolate I grew up with, before the instant mixes came along. It was a very special treat, usually reserved for the Holidays. Cooking the cocoa powder, sugar, and water first, before adding the milk, takes away the starchy aspect of the cocoa powder and really makes the chocolate flavor "bloom." It's rich, creamy, and so comforting... there's nothing better!
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Eddie REVIEW:
October 13, 2016Great for football games when it is cold out. Just the right blend to warm you up.
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Guest Foodie November 25, 2015
Why does it say to "boil" and then it says DO NOT BOIL
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CDKitchen Staff Reply:
You boil it before adding the milk and then do NOT let it boil after you add the milk.
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Susan REVIEW:
November 6, 2014Can this be made ahead of time and refrigerated till ready to use?
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grovearrow REVIEW:
November 2, 2014Made this before our halloween hayride. Huge hit with young and old.
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BTR. REVIEW:
November 13, 2013Made this for our elementary school's rummage sale last weekend and everyone really liked it. I had it sitting in three crock pots to keep it warm.
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sterling6pack REVIEW:
November 28, 2009Served to family after being in the cold hanging Christmas lights. They are huge fans of "coffee shop" hot cocoas...but not anymore. My son said "let's not get hot chocolate at the store anymore Mom. I want this instead all the time". Big compliment to the recipe. Gone before it had a chance to cool!
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Guest Foodie REVIEW:
December 9, 2007Great! Quick, easy, nice (but not overpowering) cinnamon taste. Made it for a big party and offered guests mini marshmallows and candy canes and whipped cream to garnish - huge hit.
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