8 Best Hot Chocolate Mixes for the Perfect Cozy Cup
We taste-tested the most popular brands to find our favorite hot cocoa.
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There's nothing cozier than a big mug of hot chocolate, bundled up by the fire in the middle of winter. And if you're not up for making a hot chocolate recipe from scratch, the best hot chocolate mixes are here to help. From sweet and marshmallowy cups to decadent mugfuls rich with chocolate flavor that double as a great Christmas treat (or, honestly, any time of year!), we've picked the best store-bought hot chocolate for any palate.
Hunting for the best hot chocolate for kids? We have a mild mix that still serves up big cocoa flavor. We've also picked some elegant hot chocolates full of fruity, darker notes that will satisfy those tasters who are craving something fancy. Or hey, why not throw in a splash of booze (we think bourbon is the best alcohol for hot chocolate!) to turn tasty hot cocoa into a delicious and decadent cocktail recipe? No matter your preferences, we've got the best buys for you!
How we tested hot chocolate mixes
Curious about how we tested hot chocolate mixes? The experts in the Good Housekeeping Test Kitchen tried over 25 hot chocolates to find the best hot cocoa packets, powders and mixes to add to your winter repertoire. We made each according to packaged directions, incorporating milk or water depending on what each brand recommended. Fancy a richer cup? Use milk instead, even if the instructions call for water!
Craving classic? This delicious and basic hot chocolate mix does the job, providing some nostalgia to every mug. This brand sources fair trade chocolate, too, so you can feel great about your purchase and each cozy sip. Best paired with a holiday treat.
Calling all chocolate lovers: This pick is for you! The ethically-sourced mix reminded our tasters in the test kitchen of an ultra-rich, super thick chocolate pudding.
Mixing up a big batch after sledding? This jar serves up a sweet vanilla flavor that will satisfy little palates. No marshmallows necessary (but they certainly won't hurt!).
Williams-Sonoma Peppermint Hot Chocolate
Tasters noted that this hot chocolate was refreshing with a big peppermint hit. If you're looking for an after-dinner drink, this cannister, packed with whole pieces of chocolate, is for you.
This brand combines big chocolate chunks and smaller flakes for a varied texture and meltability that results in the richest of hot cocoas.
Each elegant cup serves up fruity cacao flavor, great for savory palates. The addition of salt in the mix emphasizes the chocolatey richness.
Our food editors mentioned you could practically stand a spoon up in this decadent hot chocolate. The brand also boasts its single-origin approach to chocolate sourcing, ensuring each bag supports small farmers.
Fruition Chocolate Works Sipping Chocolate Mix
An elegant cup of this splurge-worthy has a slightly bitter flavor, great for anyone who doesn't have a sweet tooth looking for a chocolate fix. It doubles as a delicious gift for the holiday season.
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