How to Make Chocolate Simple Syrup for Coffee and Desserts
Chocolate simple syrup is a decadent and versatile sweetener that will elevate everything from your morning coffee to dessert creations. With a velvety texture and deep, indulgent chocolate flavor, this homemade syrup is perfect for drizzling over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream, as well as adding a rich, sweet touch to your coffee, milkshakes, and cocktails. Made with just a few simple ingredients, this chocolate syrup is easy to make and store for long-lasting enjoyment.
The beauty of making your own chocolate syrup lies in its ability to deliver a pure, intense chocolate flavor without any artificial additives. Unlike store-bought versions, this syrup is made with unsweetened cocoa powder, ensuring that the chocolate flavor shines through without being overly sweet.
How to Use Chocolate Simple Syrup
The uses for this rich chocolate syrup are endless. Here are a few ideas for incorporating it into your daily routine:
- Coffee & Lattes – Add a splash of chocolate syrup to your coffee, espresso, or latte for a mocha-style drink that will satisfy your chocolate cravings.
- Milkshakes & Smoothies – Mix the syrup into milkshakes or smoothies for a creamy, indulgent treat that’s perfect for hot days.
- Cocktails – Create chocolate-flavored cocktails like a chocolate martini or add a spoonful to your favorite whiskey or rum drinks for a rich twist.
- Desserts – Drizzle over ice cream, cakes, or brownies for an extra layer of flavor, or use it in your baking recipes to enhance chocolate desserts.
- Breakfast – Use the syrup on pancakes, waffles, or in your oatmeal for a sweet start to the day.
Storage and Tips
- Store your chocolate simple syrup in the refrigerator in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to one month.
- For a thicker syrup, allow it to simmer a bit longer, but be sure to stir frequently to prevent it from burning.
- If you like a richer chocolate flavor, consider using dark cocoa powder or adjusting the amount of sugar to suit your taste.
Storing Simple Syrups
I prefer to store my simple syrups in mason jars, and use lids like pour lids from Mason Jar Lifestyle. Alternatively, I also like to use these bottles which are aesthetic!
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Simple Syrups From Scratch—your go-to cookbook with 50+ simple syrup recipes. In the world of cooking and baking, simple syrups are a secret ingredient that can elevate your beverages and desserts with just a splash.
The main way I use simple syrups is in coffee, but there are so many other uses: Hot chocolate, Teas, Lemonades, Sparkling water or infused water, Cocktails or mocktails, Drizzle over pancakes or waffles, Add to overnight oats, Brush over cakes or cupcakes to add moisture or sweetness, Use syrups in frosting or glazes, Drizzle over ice cream or yogurt, Add to smoothies or milkshakes, Make salad dressings, Homemade popsicles and so much more!
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Check Out The Pantry Labels
In 2024, I released a set of Pantry Labels with recipes that are dishwasher-safe and fit the lids of mason jars perfectly.
Each labels has the recipe to refill the dry mix jar, as well as the recipe to make the item if applicable.
Chocolate Simple Syrup
Ingredients
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1 cup filtered water
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, water, cocoa powder, and salt over medium heat. Stir the mixture occasionally to help dissolve the sugar and cocoa powder completely.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, whisking frequently until all the ingredients have dissolved and the syrup has thickened slightly.
- Once the syrup is smooth and the sugar has fully dissolved, remove the pan from heat and add the vanilla extract. Stir until the extract is fully incorporated.
- Allow the syrup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a clean, airtight container.
- Store the syrup in the refrigerator for up to one month for easy access whenever you want to add a chocolatey touch to your meals and drinks.
