We looked at the Swiss Miss Simply Cocoa as a way to make a great cup of chocolate at home: flavor, richness and body, how easy it is to make, and value per cup.
What we like
- Simple ingredients
- Inexpensive
- Good aroma
Watch out for
- Somewhat thin
- Still sweet
Key facts
| Typical price | $4 |
|---|---|
| Size | 8 packets |
| Cost per unit | about 50¢ per packet |
| Type | Hot cocoa mix |
| Style | Milk chocolate |
| Make with | With milk |
Checked Oct 9, 2026 on the official site. Prices and terms change: confirm before you buy.
Recipes to try with it
Hot · MintPeppermint Hot Chocolate
435 cal 5 min
Hot · CaramelSalted Caramel Hot Chocolate
525 cal 5 min
Hot · ClassicHomemade Hot Chocolate (From Cocoa Powder)
290 cal 5 min
How it tastes
A cleaner-label version of the classic with no artificial preservatives. Silky flavor, though a bit thin.
How to make it best
Make it with whole milk rather than water for the creamiest cup, and whisk well. To make it richer, stir in ½ oz chopped dark chocolate; to cut the sweetness, add a teaspoon of unsweetened cocoa.
Price and value
About $4.00 for 8 packets (about 50¢ per packet) when we checked in October 2026. Prices vary by store and season: winter sales are common.
Who should buy it
Best for: a short, simple ingredient list at a budget price. The catch: somewhat thin.
Our verdict
A great pick for: a short, simple ingredient list at a budget price. The catch: somewhat thin.
Frequently asked questions
Should I make Swiss Miss Simply Cocoa with milk or water?
Milk makes it creamier and richer; this one is designed to be made with milk.
Tried Swiss Miss Simply Cocoa?
Reader notes
Tried Swiss Miss Simply Cocoa? How does it taste, and what do you make with it? The first good one goes right here.
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Alternatives to Swiss Miss Simply Cocoa
Velvety and deeply chocolatey without being too sweet: the mix that tastes closest to melted dark chocolate. It’s pricey and often sells out in winter.
- Type
- Hot cocoa mix
- Size
- 14.5 oz tin
- Cost
- about $1.30 per oz
- Make with
- With milk
Semisweet and refined rather than sugary, with a slight mocha character and a smooth mouthfeel.
- Type
- Hot cocoa mix
- Size
- 6 packets
- Cost
- about $1 per packet
- Make with
- With milk
Tastes like a melted milk chocolate bar: sweet but balanced, with a hint of vanilla. A reliable premium supermarket pick.
- Type
- Hot cocoa mix
- Size
- 10 packets (also sold in canisters)
- Cost
- about $1.50 per packet
- Make with
- With milk
The mix behind the New York café’s signature frozen drink. Intense dark chocolate with a light espresso-like finish.
- Type
- Frozen hot chocolate mix
- Size
- 1 canister
- Cost
- varies
- Make with
- Blend with milk and ice