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–+ servings
Chocolate Syrup
Homemade cocoa syrup has been a pantry favorite for decades, offering an economical way to create rich chocolate flavor using simple ingredients. Recipes like this one became especially popular in American kitchens during the mid-20th century, when unsweetened cocoa powder was a common baking staple. Unlike commercial chocolate syrup, this version is cooked briefly on the stovetop, creating a smooth, glossy consistency that's perfect for stirring into milk, spooning over ice cream, drizzling on pancakes, or adding to desserts. The touch of vanilla rounds out the deep cocoa flavor, producing a classic chocolate syrup that's versatile, easy to prepare, and made entirely from everyday pantry ingredients.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 13 minutes
Course sauce
Cuisine American
Servings 16
Calories 70 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 dash salt
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions
 

Step 1: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • Mix the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt together in a medium saucepan.

Step 2: Make a Paste

  • Add just enough of the hot water to form a smooth paste.

Step 3: Add Remaining Water

  • Gradually stir in the remaining hot water until smooth.

Step 4: Cook the Syrup

  • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly.
  • Boil for 3 minutes.

Step 5: Finish

  • Remove from the heat.
  • Stir in the vanilla extract.
  • Allow the syrup to cool before transferring it to a clean jar or bottle.
  • Refrigerate after cooling.

Tips

  • Store refrigerated for up to 3 weeks.
  • Shake or stir before using if it thickens.
  • Add a pinch of espresso powder for deeper chocolate flavor.
  • Use Dutch-process cocoa for a smoother taste.
  • Stir into hot coffee or hot chocolate.
  • Drizzle over pancakes, waffles, or French toast.
  • Use as an ice cream topping.
  • Blend into milkshakes or smoothies.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm spice note.
  • Thin with a tablespoon of hot water if the syrup becomes too thick.

Nutrition

Calories: 70kcalCarbohydrates: 18gProtein: 1gFat: 0.6gSaturated Fat: 0.3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.03gMonounsaturated Fat: 0.2gSodium: 18mgPotassium: 78mgFiber: 1gSugar: 16gVitamin A: 2IUCalcium: 10mgIron: 0.5mg
Keyword American, chocolate syrup, classic recipe, cocoa, dessert topping, homemade syrup, pantry staple, vintage recipe