Hot cocoa is made from cocoa powder, sugar, and milk; cocoa beans are dried and fermented to produce the powder, then sweeteners and spices are added. Cocoa tends to be lighter in flavor and consistency than hot chocolate, which consists of melted chocolate mixed with hot milk or water, creating a richer, denser, less-sweet drink.

Additionally, many hot cocoas come in convenient, instant packets, while genuine hot chocolate is made by heating real milk with chopped chocolate until thoroughly blended and thickened. Spoon University says, “if you have a sweet tooth, hot cocoa might be the better option. But if [you] enjoy richer flavors, hot chocolate is the better choice.”