Lifestyle

These DIY Hot Cocoa Jars Are the Cutest Gifts You'll Give All Winter

By Izzi Weiss at University of Virginia

Everyone knows that reusing glass jars is the trendiest new craft to take part in, so why not make gift giving easy this year and make your own hot cocoa jars this holiday season?

These hot cocoa jars are the perfect combination of an aesthetically-pleasing, cute vibe without breaking the bank, and it just so happens that this mix is really, really tasty. This recipe will make three pint-sized jars worth of mix with five cups of hot chocolate per jar. If you want even more holiday spirit than just a red bow, I recommend adding some peppermint bits or cinnamon.

Dutch Hot Chocolate Mix

  • Prep Time: 5 mins
  • Total Time: 5 mins
  • Servings: 3
Ingredients
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 cup Dutch-process cocoa
  • 2 1/2 cups powdered milk
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup dehydrated marshmallows optional but highly encouraged

Izzi Weiss

Step 1

Measure out cocoa, powdered sugar, powdered milk, and salt.

Izzi Weiss

Step 2

Combine measured ingredients into a large bowl and mix well.

Izzi Weiss

Step 3

Distribute into jars for gifting to your friends (or yourself as encouragement to get through the winter).

Izzi Weiss

Step 4

Place dehydrated marshmallows at the top of the jar.

Izzi Weiss

Step 5

Add a special touch with a nice bow or card if feeling festive, and enjoy.

Izzi Weiss

This simple recipe is the best way to create a thoughtful DIY gift for your friends without spending hours and your entire bank account. Not only is this hot chocolate mix ridiculously creamy and chocolaty, but it's also the best treat for sitting by the fireplace this winter—or if you're in college, pretending you're sitting by a fireplace this winter while you drink hot chocolate in your dorm.

Given that these tiny gifts had a 100% approval rate among my friends, I promise any hot cocoa (or Pinterest) lover won't be disappointed with this creation. 

With that, happy holidays, and happy sipping.