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  4. 10 Best Hot Chocolate Mixes of 2024 (Ghirardelli, Nestle, and More)
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10 Best Hot Chocolate Mixes of 2024 (Ghirardelli, Nestle, and More)

What's better than sipping a cup of hot chocolate to relax after a long day? Its decadent, heart-warming flavor is the ultimate treat. And with a hot chocolate mix, you can make this drink in an instant by just adding hot milk or water. If you want a little extra flavor, there are hot chocolate mixes with cinnamon or vanilla as well. 


However, it can be challenging to find a mix that you love. Whether you want something decadent, vegan, or organic, we've got you covered! After searching the Internet, our favorite is Equal Exchange's Organic Dark Hot Chocolate due to its strong chocolate flavor and fair-trade cocoa. Check out the rest of our picks, and be sure to read through the buying guide for all the information you need to make a decision. 

Last updated 02/26/2024
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Table of Contents

How to Choose a Hot Chocolate Mix - Buying Guide

A hot chocolate mix is a convenient way to enjoy a tasty drink instantly. To find the best option for you, consider factors like the quality of the ingredients and flavor. 

1

Milk Chocolate is Balanced, Dark is Bitter and Rich, and White is Intensely Sweet

Milk Chocolate is Balanced, Dark is Bitter and Rich, and White is Intensely Sweet

Hot chocolate might be a simple beverage, but there are several flavors available. If you are into an intense and bitter chocolate flavor, a dark chocolate mix is a great option. Adults may prefer dark chocolate as well since it's less sweet. 


Milk chocolate is the most popular choice since it has a rich, sweet taste without bitterness. You can also go with a white chocolate mix for something sweet and creamy. Since it's extra sweet, it's an especially good choice for kids


If you're enjoying your hot chocolate with other sweets, we recommend milk or dark hot chocolate. White chocolate might be too sweet when paired with other desserts.

2

Extra Flavors and Toppings Can Add Whimsy to Your Drink

Extra Flavors and Toppings Can Add Whimsy to Your Drink

If you are in the mood for something different, look for a hot chocolate mix with additional flavorings or toppings. Some have marshmallow bits that rehydrate in the drink, adding a fun touch. Others may have additional flavors, like mint, vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. Choose a hot chocolate based on the flavors and toppings you love!


If you can't find exactly what you want, you can always add extracts, syrups, spices, or even extra chocolate. You can even use a little flavored coffee creamer! For extra visual impact and flavor, consider topping it with whipped cream, caramel, a cinnamon stick, or a candy cane.

3

Canisters Are Eco-Friendly, Packets Are Portable

Canisters Are Eco-Friendly, Packets Are Portable

Packaging affects factors such as storage, ease of preparation, and even the quality of the powder. There are two main types of packaging for hot chocolate mixes: canisters and packets.


Canisters allow you to control how much powder you use, like using more powder for a stronger flavor. Canisters are also environmentally-friendly since you can reuse them to store something else. However, be sure to avoid getting moisture inside the canister to prevent spoilage. 


On the other hand, packets are great for single use. They are easy to store and bring with you since they don't take up a lot of space. However, you might find it difficult at first to balance the right amount of hot water or milk to mix ratio. 

4

Check the Labels if You Have Food Restrictions

Check the Labels if You Have Food Restrictions

A chocolate mix might use ingredients that can trigger allergies, such as soy or milk. Nevertheless, there are many products without common allergens! These products are also great for those who follow a gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan diet. 


Some products are dairy-free as long as you make them with water instead of dairy milk. Some dairy-free or vegan mixes use alternatives like dried coconut milk or cream, while others leave out any dairy alternatives altogether. This may lead to a less creamy texture, but hot chocolate doesn't require dairy or non-dairy milk to be tasty. 


Make sure to look for official certifications, such as certified gluten-free, on the mix's packaging. Some products might be manufactured in a facility that also processes products that use common food allergens. Make sure the hot chocolate is produced in a dedicated facility to avoid cross-contamination. 

5

If You're Concerned About the Taste, Check the Label for Artificial Flavors and Emulsifiers

If You're Concerned About the Taste, Check the Label for Artificial Flavors and Emulsifiers

If you want to know exactly what's in your mix, check the ingredient list. To create a smooth and rich hot chocolate, brands may add artificial flavors, sweeteners, anti-caking agents, or emulsifiers to their mixes. Some products, especially those containing nonfat milk, may contain preservatives to ensure freshness. 


While the presence of artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners, and anti-caking agents likely won't harm you, they may affect the taste and texture of the hot chocolate. If you're concerned about an ingredient, like artificial vanilla flavor, read the customer reviews to see if it tastes real or off-putting.


Additionally, many products are made from cocoa beans that have been treated with alkali, an agent that helps neutralize the acidity in the beans and make the powder dissolve more easily. Alkalized, or Dutch process, cocoa has a mellow, smoother flavor.


On the other hand, natural cocoa has not been alkalized and has a more acidic and fruity flavor. However, it can be challenging to find hot chocolate mixes that use natural cocoa. If you prefer this, it may be easier to make your hot chocolate from scratch.

6

For the Health-Conscious, Consider Low-Fat or Low-Sugar Options

For the Health-Conscious, Consider Low-Fat or Low-Sugar Options

While hot chocolate has a reputation for being a decadent treat, there are healthier versions available. The two main concerns when it comes to hot chocolate are sugar and fat. 


Look at the grams of sugar per serving and source of sweetness. Some are sweetened naturally, offering a classic flavor. Some products are made with artificial sweeteners like sucralose or refined sugars like high-fructose corn syrup, while others have unrefined sugars like coconut palm sugar. 


Artificial sweeteners can have an aftertaste, but they often have no carbs or calories. The choice is up to you, but artificial sweeteners may have adverse health effects if consumed in large amounts. We recommend natural low-calorie sweeteners, like stevia, since they don't have the potential health risks of artificial sweeteners.


Some mixes, especially sweet milk or white chocolate options, may be less healthy. However, dark chocolate mixes may be lower in fat and sugar. If the mix gives you the option of using milk or water, water obviously won't add additional sugar, calories, or fat. However, milk will make the texture creamier! 

7

Check Out Fair Trade Cocoa to Ensure Fair Labor Practices

Check Out Fair Trade Cocoa to Ensure Fair Labor Practices

Hot chocolate is one of the world's favorite drinks, but cocoa is tough to grow. Additionally, cocoa farmers are exposed to dangerous working environments. 


For example, they often have to handle pesticides without any protective equipment or work long hours without resting. Since their pay is typically very low, child labor is often used to save costs and make prices competitive.


However, fair trade brands (sometimes known as "equal exchange" brands) are dedicated to buying cocoa beans at a reasonable price to help increase the income of cocoa farmers. Furthermore, they are committed to using non-exploitative farming and processing practices. 


There are many fair trade organizations that provide certification. To quickly see if a hot chocolate mix is produced ethically, look for a certification on the packaging, product information, or brand website.


The cocoa beans from fair trade brands are also sourced carefully and often contain no artificial fillers or preservatives. In general, we recommend looking for brands that are transparent about how they source their cocoa and any other labor-intensive ingredients, like spices or vanilla. 

Was the Buying Guide helpful?

10 Best Hot Chocolate Mixes

We combed through reviewer comments, ingredient lists, and brand information to find the 10 best hot chocolate mixes available. We selected the options below based on the points in our buying guide.
Popularity
Products
Image
Click to purchase
Price
Key features
1

Ghirardelli

Premium Indulgence Hot Cocoa Mix

Ghirardelli Premium Indulgence Hot Cocoa Mix 1

$22.95

High Mid

Best Classic Hot Chocolate With a Smooth, Rich Taste

2

Equal Exchange

Organic Dark Hot Chocolate

Equal Exchange  Organic Dark Hot Chocolate 1

$6.99

Low Mid

Best Vegan Dark Chocolate Mix That's Ethically Sourced

3

Castle Kitchen

Double Dutch Dark Chocolate

Castle Kitchen Double Dutch Dark Chocolate 1

$13.99

Mid

Best Allergy-Friendly Hot Chocolate

4

Ghirardelli

White Chocolate Flavored Sweet Ground Powder

Ghirardelli White Chocolate Flavored Sweet Ground Powder 1

$22.93

High Mid

Best White Chocolate Mix for a Sweet Treat

5

Nestle

Hot Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows

Nestle Hot Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows 1

$29.95

High

Best Hot Chocolate With Marshmallows for Kids

6

Stephen's

Gourmet Hot Cocoa Candycane

Stephen's Gourmet Hot Cocoa Candycane 1

$11.06

Low Mid

Best Peppermint Hot Chocolate for the Holiday Season

7

NibMor

Organic Drinking Chocolate

NibMor Organic Drinking Chocolate 1

$13.50

Mid

Best Hot Chocolate Mix With Minimal Ingredients

8

Land O' Lakes

Cocoa Classics Hot Cocoa Mix

Land O' Lakes Cocoa Classics Hot Cocoa Mix 1

$26.06

High Mid

Best for Families That Like to Mix It Up

9

Swiss Miss

Hot Cocoa Mix Milk Chocolate Flavor With Reduced Calorie

Swiss Miss  Hot Cocoa Mix Milk Chocolate Flavor With Reduced Calorie 1

$3.28

Low

Best for Decadent Hot Chocolate With Reduced Sugar

10

Lake Champlain Chocolates

Spicy Aztec Hot Chocolate

Lake Champlain Chocolates  Spicy Aztec Hot Chocolate 1

$15.56

Mid

Best Unique Mix With a Kick of Spice

If you don't see the product you're looking for, you can request that it be listed.
No.1

GhirardelliPremium Indulgence Hot Cocoa Mix

Premium Indulgence Hot Cocoa Mix 1
Source:amazon.com
Premium Indulgence Hot Cocoa Mix 2
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$22.95
High Mid
Reference price
$22.95
High Mid

Best Classic Hot Chocolate With a Smooth, Rich Taste

Pros:

  • Contains 15 single-serve packets for easy prep
  • Uses Dutch cocoa, creamer, and dried milk for a rich flavor
  • Classic flavor is suitable for kids and adults

Cons:

  • Not fair trade 

Made from Dutch cocoa and milk powder, this mix is a great choice for classic creamy and rich hot chocolate. Since it includes dried milk and creamer, it will still taste rich if you prepare it with water. This box includes 15 single-serving packets, so it's easy to make a cup without measuring. 


Some reviewers note that it is on the sweeter side. On the other hand, many reviewers compliment the rich and smooth chocolatey taste. There are also reports that the mix dissolves well and doesn't leave clumps, unlike other brands. 

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No.2

Equal Exchange Organic Dark Hot Chocolate

Organic Dark Hot Chocolate 1
Source:amazon.com
Organic Dark Hot Chocolate 2
Source:amazon.com
Organic Dark Hot Chocolate 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$6.99
Low Mid

Best Vegan Dark Chocolate Mix That's Ethically Sourced

Pros:

  • Vegan, meaning it's free from dairy
  • Organic and fair trade, with the cocoa coming from small farms
  • Made without preservatives or unnecessary additions
  • Canister allows you to add as much powder as you'd like

Cons:

  • Flavor may be too bitter for kids

Equal Exchange's hot chocolate mix is made with fair trade and organic ingredients. The cocoa is sourced from small farms in the Dominican Republic, Peru, and Paraguay. The ingredient list is simple, and they use actual dark chocolate. Plus, it's dairy-free and vegan. If you want something with a kick, try their spicy flavor!


This mix is praised for being rich and not overly sweet. Since the flavor is dark chocolate, which is a bit bitter, it may not be a hit with kids. However, many reviewers add that this hot chocolate mix tastes great with dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk. 

No.3

Castle KitchenDouble Dutch Dark Chocolate

Double Dutch Dark Chocolate 1
Source:amazon.com
Double Dutch Dark Chocolate 2
Source:amazon.com
Double Dutch Dark Chocolate 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.99
Mid
Reference price
$13.99
Mid

Best Allergy-Friendly Hot Chocolate

Pros:
  • Gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and vegan
  • Produced in a nut-free facility
  • Canister lets you use as much mix as you'd like
  • Straightforward ingredients
Cons:
  • Not fair trade

Castle Kitchen's hot chocolate mix suits a number of dietary needs, including those allergic to dairy, soy, nuts, and gluten. Plus, it doesn't contain any artificial flavors or preservatives. If you're looking for more flavor, they also have caramel and mint options!


There are some reports that it takes several scoops to get a strong chocolate flavor. However, many reviewers appreciate having an allergy-friendly option that tastes like classic hot chocolate! Some recommend adding dairy-free alternatives, such as coconut milk, for more flavor.

No.4

GhirardelliWhite Chocolate Flavored Sweet Ground Powder

Reference price
$22.93
High Mid

Best White Chocolate Mix for a Sweet Treat

Pros:

  • Mild and sweet white chocolate flavor 
  • Large 50-ounce canister will last for a long time
  • Contains creamer for a smoother texture

Cons:

  • Not fair trade

This mix from Ghirardelli has a unique and subtle white chocolate flavor, making it perfect for kids or those looking for maximum sweetness. Plus, it comes in this huge 50-ounce container, making it large enough for a family to share.


It should be noted that the flavor is on the mild side. Nevertheless, many reviewers like that it makes sweet and unique hot cocoa! They also like the large container, saying it's great for making many cafe-style white chocolate drinks or mochas at home.

No.5

NestleHot Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows

Hot Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows 1
Source:amazon.com
Hot Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows 2
Source:amazon.com
Hot Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$29.95
High

Best Hot Chocolate With Marshmallows for Kids

Pros:

  • Comes with mini marshmallows
  • Large box includes 50 packets, making it great for families
  • Classic hot chocolate flavor

Cons:

  • Brand doesn't use 100 percent ethical sourcing yet
  • Contains artificial flavor, corn syrup, and sucralose

Looking for a nostalgic treat? This classic hot chocolate has mini marshmallows mixed into the powder for a fun twist. Its mild flavor and sweetness make it great for kids, too. Plus, this container contains enough packets for the whole family. 


There are some reports that it doesn't have an intense chocolate taste. However, many report that it's a big hit with kids! They also like its sweet flavor and creamy texture. Plus, they love that it includes so many packets, saying one box lasts for a long time.

No.6

Stephen'sGourmet Hot Cocoa Candycane

Gourmet Hot Cocoa Candycane 1
Source:amazon.com
Gourmet Hot Cocoa Candycane 2
Source:amazon.com
Gourmet Hot Cocoa Candycane 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$11.06
Low Mid

Best Peppermint Hot Chocolate for the Holiday Season

Pros:

  • Made with real pieces of candy cane
  • Mild milk chocolate base flavor
  • Canister makes it easy to adjust the amount of mix

Cons:

  • Contains corn syrup and artificial flavors
  • Not fair trade

This mix is perfect for the winter holidays! It has a milk chocolate flavor with a hit of peppermint from real pieces of candy canes. It comes in a large one-pound container, making it a great choice for the whole family. Plus, the chocolate flavor is mild enough for kids.


Overall, this mix is praised for its creamy texture and sweet taste. While the chocolate flavor isn't intense, most like that it strikes the perfect balance between peppermint and chocolate. They also appreciate that they can see the pieces of candy cane in the powder!

No.7

NibMorOrganic Drinking Chocolate

Organic Drinking Chocolate 1
Source:amazon.com
Organic Drinking Chocolate 2
Source:amazon.com
Organic Drinking Chocolate 3
Source:amazon.com
Reference price
$13.50
Mid
Reference price
$13.50
Mid

Best Hot Chocolate Mix With Minimal Ingredients

Pros:

  • Only made with three natural ingredients
  • Organic and fair-trade
  • Vegan, non-dairy, and gluten-free
  • Packets are easy to use

Cons:

  • May be too strong for kids

This simple, vegan hot chocolate is made with only three ingredients to produce a genuine chocolate flavor. It is also certified organic and gluten-free. It's sweetened with organic coconut palm sugar and organic cane sugar, which have a fuller flavor than refined white sugar.


Since it doesn't use many ingredients, it's worth noting that this mix has a stronger flavor classic hot chocolate. In fact, many love its bold and rich chocolate taste! They report that it's creamy, too. Some also mention that it tastes great with all types of milk, including almond and coconut milk. 

No.8

Land O' LakesCocoa Classics Hot Cocoa Mix

Reference price
$26.06
High Mid

Best for Families That Like to Mix It Up

Pros:

  • Box has 34 packets, making it large enough to share
  • Four flavors to choose from
  • Made with Dutch-processed cocoa for a milder taste

Cons:

  • Has corn syrup and artificial flavors
  • Not fair trade

If you love to try out different flavors, then this variety pack might be an excellent option. This package has four flavors: chocolate, French vanilla, salted caramel, and mint. There are 34 packs total, making it ideal for families or couples with different flavor preferences. 


This set is widely praised for its variety, with many reviewers saying that all of the flavors are delicious. Some note that kids enjoy this hot chocolate, too. Plus, reviewers report that it makes a great gift

No.9

Swiss Miss Hot Cocoa Mix Milk Chocolate Flavor With Reduced Calorie

Reference price
$3.28
Low

Best for Decadent Hot Chocolate With Reduced Sugar

Pros:
  • No artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives
  • Zero fat, 35 calories, and four grams of sugar per serving
  • Mild milk chocolate flavor
Cons:
  • Sweetened with sucralose
  • Not fair trade

If you're looking for something a little healthier, we recommend this milk chocolate mix from Swiss Miss. It only has 35 calories per serving, which is less than half of other brands. Plus, it has zero grams of fat and four grams of sugar.


There are some reports that it doesn't dissolve very well. Otherwise, most like that it's a healthier version of a decadent treat! They say that it's surprisingly sweet and tasty for being so low in sugar and calories. 

No.10

Lake Champlain Chocolates Spicy Aztec Hot Chocolate

Reference price
$15.56
Mid

Best Unique Mix With a Kick of Spice

Pros:

  • Unique spicy flavor from ancho chili, chipotle peppers, and cinnamon
  • Organic and fair-trade
  • Only five natural ingredients
  • Made by a Certified B Corporation, meaning they are more ethical 
  • Canister allows you to adjust the amount of mix

Cons:

  • May be too hot if you're sensitive to spice

If you enjoy the combination of sweet and spicy flavors, this unique hot chocolate mix is for you! It's made from five natural ingredients, including ancho chili, chipotle peppers, and cinnamon. Plus, you can enjoy it if you're vegan or allergic to dairy.


Reviewers note that this is quite spicy! However, many still love the taste, saying it's flavorful and rich. Some even note that this is the only mix with enough heat for those that love spice. They also like that they can adjust the amount of mix to suit their spice preference.

Easy Hot Chocolate Mix Mug Brownie

If you're looking for uses for leftover hot chocolate mix, how about adding it to cakes or brownies? Here's a simple recipe by SweetHailey to make a quick mug brownie to get you started!


Ingredients:

  • 4 tbsp of hot chocolate mix
  • 4 tbsp of cake flour
  • 1 tbsp of sugar
  • A pinch of salt
  • 3 tbsp of milk
  • 3 tbsp of cooking oil
  • A sprinkle of chocolate chips

Directions:

  1. In a mug, combine all of the ingredients except for the chocolate chips. Mix it well until you don't see any lumps.
  2. Sprinkle the top of the mixture with chocolate chips.
  3. Microwave it for 1 minute and 40 seconds to 2 minutes.
  4. Top it with ice cream and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Ever wondered about how long your hot chocolate mix will stay good or the difference between cocoa and chocolate? Check out our frequently asked questions!

Does hot chocolate powder expire?

Yes, hot chocolate powder does expire. The mix should have the best by date on the packaging, which can range from a few months to a few years. Mixes with milk powder are more likely to have a shorter shelf life. If you want a longer shelf life, look for options with preservatives.


It's extra important to keep canisters sealed while in storage to prevent moisture or pests from getting into the powder. When you prepare your hot chocolate, don't drink it if it looks or smells off. 

What's the difference between hot chocolate and hot cocoa?

While both of these terms are used interchangeably, there is a technical difference. Hot chocolate is made from melted chocolate, while hot cocoa is made from cocoa powder. However, these terms mean the same thing when it comes to most hot chocolate mixes!


However, if you want a rich treat, try making real hot chocolate! It's also known as drinking chocolate, and it's easy to prepare. Simply melt pieces of chocolate into a saucepan of milk and add any additional flavorings you want. 

Additional Toppings for Your Hot Chocolate

The most common pairing with hot chocolate is, of course, marshmallows, but did you know you can also add spices or even cookie pieces to add more flavor and texture? There are so many ways to customize your drink. Check out some potential toppings in the links below!

Amazon's Best Selling Hot Cocoa

Looking for even more hot chocolate options? Check out Amazon's best selling hot cocoa mixes!

Top 5 Hot Chocolate Mixes

No. 1: GhirardelliPremium Indulgence Hot Cocoa Mix

No. 2: Equal Exchange Organic Dark Hot Chocolate

No. 3: Castle KitchenDouble Dutch Dark Chocolate

No. 4: GhirardelliWhite Chocolate Flavored Sweet Ground Powder

No. 5: NestleHot Cocoa Mix with Mini Marshmallows

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The descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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