We have all had a cup of Swiss Miss hot cocoa at some point in our lives. And while this beverage can invoke some fond childhood memories, it can sometimes leave a bit to be desired from a flavor perspective. At High Plains Spice Company, we have crafted some truly unique cocoa mixes that are sure to delight just about anyone’s palette. The quality of your cocoa mix makes little difference however, if its brewed incorrectly. Here are a few simple tips to make your next cup of cocoa a truly memorable experience:
Use Milk, Not Water

As our mixes are not as intensely sweet as many store-bought varieties, we recommend using milk as the base for your hot cocoa as opposed to water. This will bring out the natural richness in the dutch cocoa and other ingredients.
Brewing Method

To brew our cocoa, simply combine 1-3 tbsp. of mix per 1 cup (8oz.) of milk in a small sauce pan. Simmer over medium heat until mixture is heated through and creamy in texture. Whisk occasionally to remove any lumps.
You can also heat your milk in the microwave, usually 2-2:30 minutes per cup, and then add your mix to the heated milk. Stir vigorously with a spoon or small whisk to remove any lumps.
Add in Some Extras
To make an even more delectable cup, try throwing in a few additional ingredients to your brew.

For our Classic Cocoa Mix, we recommend adding in some peppermint extract, almond extract, or cherry extract. Blueberry Sugar and Strawberry Sugar add a fruity twist. Also try Amaretto liquor or Peppermint Schnapps to really warm up the winter!

Both our Chai Cocoa Mix and Mayan Cocoa Mix are delicious when topped with our Cinnamon Sugar or Vanilla Bean Sugar.
Try adding 2-3 tbsp. of white chocolate chips and 1-2 tsp. of pumpkin puree to our Pumpkin Spice Cocoa Mix. And top with our Cinnamon Sugar!
Enjoy!
Try our five different flavors of delicious hot cocoa mix to chase away the chill!
Classic Hot Cocoa – This classic hot chocolate mix combines the rich, creaminess of dutch cocoa with the traditional flavors of cinnamon and vanilla.

Chai Hot Cocoa – Our Chai Hot Cocoa Mix brings together the sweet and spicy flavors of traditional Indian chai with rich dutch chocolate for a cocoa that is a treat for the senses!
Mayan Hot Cocoa – Our Mayan Hot Cocoa Mix combines the richness of dutch cocoa powder with the subtle earthy spiciness of ancho chili. Add cinnamon, vanilla and allspice and you’ve got a staff favorite!
Coconut Hot Cocoa – Our Coconut Hot Cocoa Mix is the perfect combination of rich, dutch chocolate, creamy coconut and sweet vanilla. The perfect sweet drink for a chilly day!

Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa – Our Pumpkin Spice Hot Cocoa Mix brings together the traditional flavors of Fall with the classic tastes of dutch chocolate and vanilla. Yum!
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