The Christmas Season Hasn't Started Until My Grandmother Whips Up Her Famous Big-Batch Hot Chocolate Mix

Growing up, it wasn't until I saw my grandmother pull out her extra big and tall Tupperware and one particular recipe card that I knew the holiday season was here. When I think of cold weather, I smell her homemade hot chocolate mix, even if I haven't had it in years. It's something that sticks with me and that I yearn for as I watch Hallmark movies and decorate the Christmas tree.

To innocent passersby, it could look unsavory. In reality, everyone loves toting a mug of my grandmother's signature hot chocolate blend. It tastes like old-fashioned hot chocolate before watered-down packets with dehydrated marshmallows became the norm. I might be biased, but it's heaven. It's creamy, thick, sweet coziness in a cup.

When she started making me a personal batch, I had to share it with everyone. No person should consume that much hot chocolate, and I would never let her thoughtfulness go to waste. For anyone wanting to make hot chocolate this year, it's a sure bet for holiday success.

(Disclaimer: If the ingredients initially confuse you, same—but a good granddaughter does not stray from the recipe card!) It calls for just four dry ingredients and very little instruction—which, as it happens, is my favorite type of recipe. This ingredient is what to look for as far as dry milk. She prefers the brands she's been using for decades, but feel free to customize according to your preference.