Gifts that make you go "mmmm"

Alright, folks. It's the week before Christmas. Have you finished your shopping? Perhaps your co-worker gave you a present and now you're scrambling to find something for them? My co-worker, Jennifer, gifted me some delicious hot cocoa mix and homemade marshmallows. This yummy present is great to keep in the office for when you need a cocoa fix (which I will be doing) or to enjoy at home.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups nonfat dry milk powder
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
• 1/2 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips
• 1/2 cup powdered nondairy creamer
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

1. Measure all of the ingredients into a mixing bowl and whisk them until they are evenly blended.

2. Store the mix in a tightly covered container at room temperature until you're ready to package it. Makes about 4 cups of mix.

I strongly encourage everyone to set some of this stuff aside for personal use, but if you are planning on giving it as a gift as well, there are several ways to gussy it up and add a personal touch. For example, place the cocoa powder in a neat little jar (these can be found at craft stores for cheap) and place a personalized seal or label on the lid. A festive ribbon tied around the jar would also look nice. Include a tag with the following instructions: "Spoon 3 or 4 generous tablespoons of cocoa mix into your cup (depending on the size), add boiling water/hot milk, and ENJOY!."



Here is Jennifer's simple, yet elegant presentation.

Wanna top off that chocolately goodness with some melt-in-your-mouth homemade marshmallows?? Check out Jennifer's recipe here.