Mint Hot-Chocolate Cheer

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 4 cups of mix, or about 8 servings

Ingredients
• 2/3 cup sugar
• 1/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/3 cups nonfat dry milk powder
• 1 2/3 cups mint-flavored chocolate chips
• 2 Tbs crushed peppermint hard candy

Showcase this holiday drink mix in a glass container  -- recycle mason-style jars, juice bottles, or vintage glass milk bottles found at tag sales. Layer the ingredients in the jar, seal it, tie a ribbon around its neck, and attach a card with how-to's.

Layer ingredients in the order listed in a 1-quart bottle. Seal with lid and/or paper cupcake liner "hat" and attach a card with preparation directions.

To prepare: Pour the contents of the bottle into a large saucepan. Add 3 1/2 cups low-fat milk or water. Stir over medium heat until all of the candy pieces are melted and the drink is creamy and hot. Pour into mugs. Add some marshmallows and a peppermint-stick stirrer, if desired.

Tip: Twist a piece of paper into a wide-mouthed cone shape to make a "funnel" for pouring the ingredients without spilling.