Nesquik, the popular chocolate powdered drink mix, is commonly used to flavor cold milk. However, many people wonder if it can also be used in hot milk. The short answer is yes, you can absolutely use Nesquik in hot milk to make a delicious hot chocolate drink.
What is Nesquik?
Nesquik is a brand of chocolate powder made by Nestlé. It comes in both powder and liquid concentrate forms and was first introduced in the 1940s. The powder is made from cocoa powder, powdered milk, and sugar. It is designed to be mixed with cold milk to create a sweet, chocolatey drink.
Nesquik comes in different varieties including the classic chocolate flavor as well as strawberry, banana, and cookies and cream. There are also versions made specifically for mixing into hot milk and low-calorie or no sugar added options.
Can You Use Regular Nesquik Powder in Hot Milk?
The regular Nesquik powder that is intended for cold milk can absolutely be used in hot milk as well. Simply add the amount of powder recommended for a serving to a mug of heated milk and stir to dissolve. The key is to add the Nesquik while the milk is off the heat so it doesn’t scorch or cook onto the bottom of the pan.
The convenience of being able to use regular Nesquik in either cold or hot milk makes it more versatile for things like making homemade hot chocolate from scratch. You don’t have to buy two separate products.
Are There Any Differences When Using Nesquik in Hot Milk?
There are a couple slight differences to note when using regular Nesquik powder in hot milk versus cold:
- The powder may take a bit longer to fully dissolve into hot milk. Be sure to whisk continuously while adding to prevent clumping.
- Nesquik made with hot milk will be thinner in consistency than it would be with cold milk. The higher fat content in cold whole milk gives it a thicker, creamier texture.
- The sweetness level may taste different in hot milk. Some find it tastes sweeter whereas cold Nesquik has a more cocoa forward flavor.
- Hot milk brings out more of the malt flavor from the malted milk powder used in Nesquik’s recipe.
While there are some subtle changes to the flavor and consistency, it still makes an delicious hot chocolate drink with hot milk. The differences are a matter of personal preference.
Tips for Making Nesquik with Hot Milk
For best results when making Nesquik with hot milk, follow these tips:
- Use whole milk or partly skimmed milk. Lower fat milk may not taste as rich or creamy.
- Heat the milk until hot but not boiling to preserve taste.
- Add Nesquik powder to heated milk off heat and whisk vigorously to prevent clumping.
- Use a bit more powder than normal for cold milk to account for thinner consistency.
- Add toppings if desired like whipped cream, marshmallows, or chocolate shavings.
Nesquik Hot Chocolate Recipe
This basic recipe makes 1 serving of Nesquik hot chocolate with hot milk:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 2-3 tablespoons Nesquik powder
- Whipped cream or marshmallows for topping (optional)
- Heat milk in a small saucepan over medium heat until hot but not boiling.
- Place Nesquik powder in a mug and gradually whisk in hot milk until blended and smooth.
- Top with whipped cream or marshmallows if desired.
For an extra decadent hot chocolate, use half and half instead of regular milk.
Can You Use Hot Cocoa Nesquik Powder in Cold Milk?
Nestlé also makes a Nesquik powder specifically for hot milk that contains a higher fat and cocoa content. This type of Nesquik dissolves more easily in piping hot milk. The hot cocoa version can technically be used in cold milk as well, but it may not fully dissolve as there are less emulsifiers to blend the fat into the liquid.
When using the hot cocoa Nesquik powder in cold milk, be sure to stir vigorously or blend to help it incorporate. The texture may be a bit grittier or thicker than regular cold milk Nesquik unless fully blended.
Benefits of Using Nesquik in Hot Milk
There are several advantages to making hot chocolate with Nesquik powder and hot milk:
- Easy preparation – No messing with melting chocolate or cocoa powder. Just stir in Nesquik with hot milk.
- Perfect consistency – Nesquik dissolves evenly into hot milk for a smooth drink without grittiness.
- Great taste – Made with real cocoa, Nesquik offers authentic chocolate flavor.
- Customizable – Add your own toppings like marshmallows or try different milk types.
- Kid-friendly – Nesquik makes hot chocolate even picky kids will enjoy.
- Nutritious – Uses vitamin fortified milk so its a healthy choice.
Potential Downsides to Using Nesquik in Hot Milk
There aren’t really any significant downsides to using Nesquik powder in hot milk, but a few things to keep in mind:
- Can have a thinner consistency than with cold milk.
- May not fully dissolve and be gritty if milk is too hot.
- Added sugars mean its not as healthy as homemade hot cocoa.
- The flavor is milder than gourmet homemade hot chocolate.
How Does Nesquik Powder Affect Heated Milk?
When Nesquik powder is blended into hot milk, a few changes happen:
- The chocolate and malt flavors are brought out and become more pronounced.
- The milk proteins unfold and interact with the cocoa particles, thinning out the consistency.
- The cocoa powder acts as an emulsifier and binds with the milk fat globules.
- The added sugars caramelize slightly from the heat, adding depth.
- The vitamin content degrades somewhat but remains intact in significant amounts.
Overall, the heat alters the flavor profile of the cocoa and malt, while the fat and sugars improve solubility in the hot liquid. The resulting cup of hot chocolate is rich, chocolatey, and sweet.
Nutritional Information for Nesquik Hot Chocolate
The nutritional content of Nesquik hot chocolate made with hot milk is comparable to when it’s made with cold milk. However, the hot temperature does degrade some of the vitamins. Here is the approximate nutrition for one 8oz serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 |
| Total Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 190mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 30g |
| Sugars | 26g |
| Protein | 8g |
| Vitamin D | 25% DV |
| Calcium | 30% DV |
| Vitamin A | 10% DV |
*DV = Daily Value
The protein comes from the milk, while the carbohydrates and fat come predominantly from the added sugars and cocoa butter in the Nesquik powder. The vitamins are added as part of the Nesquik formulation.
Comparison of Hot vs. Cold Nutrition
When compared to Nesquik made with cold milk, the hot version has several small differences:
- Slightly lower vitamin content due to heat degradation.
- Increased sodium absorption from the cocoa powder.
- Marginally higher calorie density.
- Less thick texture so feels lighter.
Overall, the nutritional profile remains very similar whether you use hot or cold milk. The hot chocolate version is slightly more diet-friendly with fewer calories per serving. It provides an excellent source of bone-strengthening calcium and vitamin D.
Shelf Stable Shelf Stable Nesquik for Hot Cocoa
For the convenience of always having hot chocolate mix on hand, Nestlé produces both liquid and powdered shelf stable Nesquik products that are specially formulated for hot milk.
Shelf Stable Liquid Nesquik
The ready-to-drink shelf stable Nesquik comes in an aseptic carton that does not require refrigeration until opened. It has a thicker consistency and higher fat and cocoa content optimized for hot milk. To use, simply measure out the desired serving size and mix into heated milk.
Shelf Stable Powdered Nesquik
The shelf stable Nesquik powder in the canister is ideal for keeping a supply in the pantry. It dissolves easily in hot milk thanks to extra emulsifiers. It usually has a darker color and more intense chocolate flavor too. The canister helps prevent clumping from moisture.
How to Store Opened Nesquik Powder
To maintain freshness and prevent moisture from degrading the quality and performance of Nesquik powder, store opened containers properly:
- Keep in a tightly sealed container, away from light, heat, and humidity.
- Consider transferring to an airtight jar or another resealable container if not using the entire canister quickly.
- Store in a cool, dry place like the pantry instead of counters or the fridge.
- Use within a few months for maximum freshness and to prevent moisture clumping.
- Scoop out powder with a clean, dry spoon to limit air exposure each time.
Signs Nesquik Powder Has Gone Bad
Properly stored, Nesquik powder can last around 8-12 months past its printed expiration date before going bad. However, there are some signs that your Nesquik powder is no longer good and should be discarded:
- Extremely clumpy powder that won’t dissolve smoothly, even in hot milk.
- Off smell like sour milk or stale chocolate.
- Change in color to darker brown.
- Chalky or gritty texture rather than smooth.
- Mold growth visible on powder (rare if stored in a dry area).
If you notice any of those warning signs, it’s best to throw out the Nesquik powder and get a fresh container. Consuming rancid or moldy chocolate drink mix could cause unpleasant stomach issues.
Other Ways to Use Nesquik Powder
While Nesquik is commonly used in milk-based drinks, the powder is versatile for adding chocolate flavor to all kinds of recipes:
- Hot cocoa – Adds rich chocolate taste without mess of melting chocolate.
- Baking – Mix into cake, brownies, cookies, pancakes.
- Milkshakes – Blends smoothly into thick, creamy shakes.
- Pudding – Instant chocolate pudding with Nesquik has homemade taste.
- Frosting – Makes an easy chocolate buttercream or glaze.
- Smoothies – For a nutrient-packed chocolate protein shake.
Nesquik powder works well in both hot and cold applications. Get creative mixing it into everything from oatmeal to yogurt for a sweet chocolate boost.
Common Questions
Does hot water work as well as hot milk with Nesquik?
Using hot water instead of hot milk produces a much thinner drink with weaker chocolate flavor. The milk adds richness and enhances the cocoa taste. Water won’t emulsify as well either. Milk is highly recommended over plain water.
Can you use almond milk or other dairy-free milks?
Yes, Nesquik can be used with almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, soy milk, and other dairy-free milks. Shake well to fully incorporate. Non-dairy milks won’t be quite as thick, creamy, or nutritious as regular milk.
Is Nesquik gluten-free?
Regular Nesquik powder is certified gluten-free, making it safe for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Always double check labels for specialty flavors that may contain gluten from added cookies or grains.
Does the Nesquik dissolve or get clumpy?
Nesquik is formulated to dissolve smoothly into both hot and cold liquids. Add gradually while stirring to prevent clumping. If clumping occurs, try sifting the powder first or using hotter milk. Old/expired mixes clump more easily.
Conclusion
Nesquik powder can absolutely be used to make delicious hot chocolate with hot milk. There are only minimal differences in taste and nutrition compared to using it in cold milk. Be sure to add the powder off heat and stir vigorously to aid dissolving. Follow proper storage guidelines to prevent moisture-induced clumping. Made properly, a mug of hot Nesquik is the perfect comforting treat for a cold day.