5-Minute Homemade Chocolate Syrup Recipe
Introduction
This 5-minute homemade chocolate syrup is a simple, quick way to add rich chocolate flavor to your favorite treats. Perfect for drizzling over ice cream, stirring into milk, or enhancing desserts, this syrup is both delicious and easy to make from scratch.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup 100% unsweetened cocoa powder (plus 2 tablespoons for a richer syrup; sifted)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1-2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅛ – ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (not table salt)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small or medium saucepan, whisk together the sifted cocoa powder, sugar, and water over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat.
- Step 2: Stir frequently as the syrup simmers for about 3 minutes. Avoid boiling; the syrup should bubble and thicken slightly.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in vanilla extract and kosher salt. Let the syrup cool, then transfer it to a glass jar or bottle.
- Step 4: Chill the syrup in the refrigerator before using. This helps it thicken further and allows the flavors to meld.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer chocolate flavor, add an extra 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder when whisking ingredients.
- Use maple syrup or honey instead of sugar for a different sweetness profile.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a unique twist.
- If the syrup thickens too much after chilling, simply stir in a tablespoon of warm water to loosen it.
Storage
Store the chocolate syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. When ready to use, give it a good stir before serving. If thickened too much, warm slightly or add a little water to reach desired consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular table salt instead of kosher salt?
It’s better to use kosher salt because it is less concentrated by volume than table salt. If using table salt, use about half the amount to avoid an overly salty syrup.
Will this syrup thicken more as it cools?
Yes, the syrup thickens as it cools, especially after chilling in the fridge. You can adjust thickness by stirring in a bit of warm water if needed.
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5-Minute Homemade Chocolate Syrup Recipe
- Total Time: 7 minutes
- Yield: About 1 1/2 cups 1x
Description
This quick and easy 5-minute homemade chocolate syrup recipe uses simple pantry ingredients to create a rich, smooth syrup perfect for drizzling over desserts, mixing into drinks, or enhancing your favorite treats. Made with unsweetened cocoa powder, sugar, and vanilla, this syrup thickens beautifully when chilled and offers a versatile, indulgent chocolate flavor without artificial additives.
Ingredients
Chocolate Syrup Ingredients
- ¾ cup 100% unsweetened cocoa powder, sifted (add 2 tbsp for richer syrup)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1–2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅛–¼ teaspoon kosher salt (do not substitute table salt)
Instructions
- Combine Cocoa, Sugar, and Water: In a small or medium saucepan, whisk together the sifted cocoa powder, granulated sugar, and water over medium heat until fully combined and smooth.
- Simmer the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then lower the heat. Stir frequently as it simmers for about 3 minutes, ensuring it does not come to a rolling boil. The syrup will bubble and thicken slightly during this time.
- Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and kosher salt to enhance the flavor profile.
- Cool and Store: Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it into a glass jar or bottle. Refrigerate to chill, which helps the syrup thicken and the flavors develop fully.
- Serve and Use: Use the chilled syrup to make chocolate milk, hot cocoa, mochas, or as a topping for desserts and ice cream. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 month.
Notes
- Use kosher salt for the best flavor balance, avoid table salt as it may alter taste.
- Adding extra cocoa powder (2 tbsp) will yield a thicker, richer syrup.
- Stir frequently during simmering to prevent burning or clumping.
- Chilling the syrup is essential for optimal consistency and flavor development.
- Store the syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator, it will keep well up to one month.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sauce
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade chocolate syrup, chocolate sauce recipe, easy chocolate syrup, quick chocolate sauce, dessert syrup
