Standout Hot Chocolate

Out of more than 40 contenders, these 6 winners warmed up Real Simple's testers.

Best Hot Chocolate Under $5

Land O’Lakes Cocoa Classics Supreme

Although it’s made with water, several tasters said this mix (shown) seemed to be made with milk. Others described it as “surprisingly creamy” and “smooth and milk-chocolaty.”
To buy: 60 cents for a 1-serving packet, at supermarkets nationwide.


Swiss Miss Chocolate Sensation

This mix had much more of a dark-chocolate taste and color than the others in the category. Testers raved about its “real cocoa flavor,” which “wasn’t overly sweet” and “left no artificial aftertaste.”
To buy: $1.50 for eight 1-serving packets, at supermarkets nationwide.