Chocolate syrup is one of my absolute favorite ingredients. I love how versatile this condiment is, adding a rich, chocolaty touch to a variety of dishes.
Contents
Chocolate syrup recipe
Chocolate syrup is a common condiment. It’s made primarily from cocoa powder, sugar, and water. This condiment is thinner and more pourable compared to chocolate sauce or hot fudge.

This syrup is a versatile ingredient. It can be drizzled over desserts (ice cream, pancakes, or waffles), blended into beverages (chocolate soda, mudslide, or Chocolate martini), or incorporated into recipes (coffee, milk, or sauce).
You can drizzle this syrup over an ice cream sundae, dip fresh fruit, or use it as a frosting for cupcakes and cakes. You can even swap out chocolate bars in your S’mores, use it as a base for chocolate fondue, or mix it with avocado for a creamy mousse.
You can also stir it into banana smoothies, milk, or hot cocoa for a cozy drink, or add it to coffee for a mocha twist. In baking, it makes brownies extra moist and upgrades mug cakes in seconds. Try it on pancakes or waffles for a fun breakfast treat!
Here is how to make the chocolate syrup:

Best Chocolate syrup
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cocoa powder and sugar until well combined.
- Add the water and salt, and whisk until smooth.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently.
- Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
- Let the syrup cool before transferring it to a jar or bottle for storage.
Notes
- Almond extract
- Espresso powder for a mocha twist
- Peppermint extract for a cool, refreshing note
- Cayenne pepper for a spicy kick
- Orange zest for a citrusy brightness
Variations
Chocolate syrup variations offer a wide range of flavors and textures. Here are some notable variations:
- Types of Chocolate
- Dark Chocolate Syrup is richer and more chocolatey than other types. It can be made with real chocolate or flavored options.
- Milk Chocolate Version is often used in milkshakes.
- White Chocolate Syrup is made by heating white chocolate chips with milk.
- Flavor Variations
- Boozy Version includes a coffee liqueur like Kahlua for an adult twist.
- Mexican Flavor adds a spicy twist with cinnamon for a unique flavor profile.
- Peanut Butter Addition combines chocolate with peanut butter for a creamy, nutty taste.
- Mint Infusion incorporates peppermint extract for a refreshing twist.
- Healthy Options
- Low-sugar or Sugar-free Syrups use alternatives like coconut sugar, honey, or date syrup.
- Keto Version replaces sugar with 1 cup of erythritol, monk fruit sweetener, or other keto-friendly sweeteners like date syrup.