We all know that any kind of sugary goodness is not actually good for us, but I’m here to tell you that there *are* ways to make these types of things healthier. Yes, they will still be full of sugar, but at least they will be made with natural ingredients, instead of chemicals and fillers.
Let me introduce you to homemade chocolate syrup …
Looks yummy, right? It is! So much better (in my humble opinion) than anything you can purchase in the store, and made with 5 simple ingredients right out of your own cupboards. Just look how rich and dark this is. Mmm, mmm!
So easy, and so delicious. I haven’t purchased chocolate syrup since I learned how to make this. Not only is it better for you, but it is much less expensive.
Happy syrup-making!
Homemade Chocolate Syrup
*** Special Note – Use a big saucepan – at least 2 quarts. The syrup will expand when boiling, and can easily overflow, making a big mess on your stove top! (Ask me how I know …. lol) I now use a 4-quart pan myself, just to be on the safe side.
Ingredients
3/4 cup cocoa powder
1 1/4 cups water
1 1/2 cups sugar
1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Dash salt
Instructions
- Combine the cocoa powder, water, sugar and salt in your saucepan over medium heat.
- Mix with a whisk until smooth.
- Stir constantly with a whisk or a wooden spoon until it boils.
- Allow it to boil for 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Add vanilla. Syrup will be very thin, so don’t worry if it seems watery!
- Allow to cool completely and it will thicken up to about the same consistency as Hershey’s syrup.
Notes
Remember to use a large saucepan when making this recipe – at least a 2 qt., but I would highly suggest a 3 qt.
You can store the syrup in a mason jar or any other glass container, and it will keep for several weeks in the fridge. We’ve kept ours even longer, but hey … how long you choose to store it is up to you, just remember your food safety lessons!
(Photo by Tori Close)
