Homemade chocolate

Delicious homemade chocolate

Preparation time: 30 minutes Cooling time: 2 hours Number of servings: 12

Introduction Homemade chocolate is a dessert that reminds us of childhood, of moments spent with family, when each bite was an explosion of flavor and joy. This homemade chocolate recipe is simple, quick, and offers a delicious version of this classic treat. Perfect for enjoying on cool evenings or sharing with loved ones, homemade chocolate is a versatile dessert, rich in flavor and with a creamy texture.

Necessary ingredients - 400 g sugar - 200 ml water - 200 g butter (preferably high quality) - 50 g cocoa (choose good quality cocoa for an intense flavor) - 400 g powdered milk (whole powdered milk is ideal for a richer taste) - Nuts (optional, but recommended for a delicious crunch) - Rum or almond essence (for a subtle aroma) - Raisins (optional, for an extra touch of natural sweetness)

Step by step for perfect homemade chocolate

1. Preparing the syrup In a pot, combine the sugar and water. Place the pot over low heat and let it boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is important not to increase the temperature too much to avoid premature caramelization.

2. Adding the butter Once the sugar syrup has started to boil, remove the pot from the heat. Add the butter cut into small cubes. It will melt quickly due to residual heat. It is essential to mix well to achieve a homogeneous composition.

3. Incorporating the dry ingredients In a separate bowl, mix the cocoa with the powdered milk. This step is important as it ensures that the ingredients will combine evenly without lumps. After the butter has completely melted in the syrup, add the cocoa and powdered milk mixture. Stir continuously until everything becomes a smooth paste.

4. Flavoring the chocolate This is the moment to add the rum or almond essence, depending on your preferences. Flavors like vanilla essence can also provide a pleasant note. If you want an extra texture, add the nuts or raisins, mixing well to distribute them evenly in the composition.

5. Cooling the chocolate Prepare a tray (preferably 20x20 cm) lined with plastic wrap. Pour the chocolate mixture into the tray, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Cover with plastic wrap and let it cool for at least 2 hours, until the chocolate has completely hardened.

Serving and suggestions Once the chocolate has cooled, remove it from the tray and cut it into cubes. You can serve it plain, but if you want an extra touch of refinement, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar or cocoa on top. A delicious variation is to serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or with a cup of aromatic coffee.

Useful tips - Calories and nutritional benefits: This homemade chocolate has approximately 150 calories per serving, being a dessert rich in calories but also in nutrients due to the powdered milk and nuts. Consume in moderation and enjoy every bite! - Variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts or even coconut flakes to diversify the texture. Additionally, you can replace part of the powdered milk with condensed milk for an even more intense sweetness.

Frequently asked questions 1. Can I use white chocolate instead of cocoa? Yes, but the recipe will require some adjustments, as white chocolate is sweeter and contains less cocoa.

2. How can I store homemade chocolate? Keep the chocolate in an airtight container at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. It can last up to 2 weeks.

3. Is it possible to add fruit to the chocolate? Yes, you can add pieces of candied fruit, such as oranges or cherries, for an exotic taste.

Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to treat yourself, this homemade chocolate will surely bring a smile to your face. Enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen, relishing the creative process of cooking!