Have some fun with your children making this easy hot cocoa mix with marshmallow hearts for Valentine's Day. The combination will be a much appreciated gift by a teacher, grandparent, or a special friend on those cold winter days and nights still ahead.

HOT COCOA MIX

1 (8 qt.) box powdered instant nonfat dry milk

1 (1 lb.) box Nestle's Quik

1 (8 oz.) jar powdered coffee creamer

1 c. powdered sugar

Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. Store in covered jar or other airtight container.

MARSHMALLOW HEARTS

2 c. granulated sugar

3 env. unflavored gelatin

1/8 tsp. salt

2 c. water

1 tsp. vanilla extract

Powdered sugar

Small heart-shaped cookie cutter

13 x 9 inch pan, buttered

Kitchen shears

Wax paper

Large resealable plastic bag

Combine the granulated sugar, gelatin, and salt in a saucepan. Add the water and stir over medium-low heat until the sugar dissolves. Heat for an additional 3 minutes. Remove from stove. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Pour mixture into a large mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer to beat at high speed for 10 minutes (or until mixture resembles thick marshmallow cr