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Candy Cane Hot Cocoa Mix

We make batches of this minty, malted milk-flavored hot chocolate to give as gifts. Be prepared—friends will return the jars, asking for refills!

—SARA TATHAM PLYMOUTH, NH



PREP TIME: 30 MIN. • MAKES: 20 SERVINGS (6 2/3 CUPS HOT COCOA MIX)


1/3 cups instant chocolate drink mix

1/3 cups chocolate malted milk powder

1/3 cup baking cocoa

1 cup confectioners’ sugar

6 tablespoons powdered nondairy creamer

3 cups nonfat dry milk powder

1/2 cups miniature semisweet chocolate chips

1 cup crushed candy canes (about 40 mini candy canes)

EACH SERVING

3/4 cup hot water

1. In a large bowl, mix chocolate drink mix, malted milk powder and baking cocoa. In another bowl, mix confectioners’ sugar and creamer.

2. In each of four 1-pint canning jars, layer 3/4 cup nonfat dry milk powder, 3/4 cup chocolate mixture, 3 tablespoons chocolate chips, 1/3 cup confectioners’ sugar mixture, 3 tablespoons chocolate chips and 1/4 cup candy canes, pouring ingredients through a large funnel or a waxed-paper cone. Press candy canes down to fit if needed.

3. Cover and store in a cool dry place up to 2 months (mixture will settle). To use, transfer contents of jar to a covered container or large resealable plastic bag; mix well.

TO PREPARE HOT COCOA Place 1/3 cup combined mix in a mug; stir in 3/4 cup hot water until blended.