Hot Chocolate

Madeline's Hot Chocolate collection brings together small-batch drinking chocolate and hot cocoa from independent US chocolate makers like Goodnow Farms, Xocolatl, and Maverick Chocolate, including single-origin and spiced blends. Drinking chocolate is made from real ground cacao for a rich, thick cup, while cocoa mixes.

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Madeline's Hot Chocolate collection brings together small-batch drinking chocolate and hot cocoa from independent US chocolate makers like Goodnow Farms, Xocolatl, and Maverick Chocolate, including single-origin and spiced blends. Drinking chocolate is made from real ground cacao for a rich, thick cup, while cocoa mixes stir quickly into hot milk or water. Every maker named below is in stock and ships nationwide.

How to choose

  • Drinking chocolate or cocoa mix. Drinking chocolate uses real ground cacao for a thicker, richer cup; cocoa mixes are lighter and quicker to make.
  • Single origin or blend. Single-origin cocoas from one region highlight a distinct flavor, while house blends aim for a balanced, classic cup.
  • Plain or spiced. Spiced and maple blends add warmth and sweetness; plain cocoa lets you sweeten to taste.
  • Milk or water. Richer drinking chocolates shine with milk or a milk alternative, while lighter mixes work with either.
  • Buying as a gift. Case and variety sets are an easy gift for a chocolate lover or for holiday entertaining.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between drinking chocolate and hot cocoa? Drinking chocolate is made from ground cacao or chopped chocolate for a thick, rich cup, while hot cocoa is made from cocoa powder and is lighter. Both are warm chocolate drinks.

How do I make single-origin hot cocoa? Heat milk or water, whisk in the cocoa until smooth, and adjust sweetness to taste. Follow the ratio on the maker's package for the intended richness.

Is hot chocolate the same as a chocolate bar melted down? Not quite. Drinking chocolate is formulated to dissolve smoothly and balance sweetness for a drink, though it is made from the same cacao as a bar.

How should I store hot cocoa mix? Keep it sealed in a cool, dry place away from moisture and strong odors, and use it by the date on the package.

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