Homemade chocolate

Homemade chocolate is a dessert that reminds us of childhood, of moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones, and the joy of savoring a homemade delicacy. Today, I will share with you a simple and delicious recipe for homemade chocolate, inspired by Gaby's recipe, that will bring a touch of sweetness to your life. It is a quick dessert, perfect for any occasion, and the ingredients are accessible and easy to find.

Total preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooling time: 4-5 hours
Number of servings: 12

Ingredients:
- 400 g powdered milk
- 250 ml water
- 250 g sugar (about 2 cups + 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 40 g cocoa
- 100 g butter
- 1 tablespoon starch
- rum essence (to taste)
- coconut (for decoration)

Preparation:
1. Start by preparing all the ingredients. This is a perfect time to ensure you have everything you need on hand. We suggest using a liquid measuring cup and a solid measuring cup to get the exact proportions.

2. In a medium-sized saucepan, add the water, sugar, and lemon juice. Bring to a boil over medium heat. This combination will form the sweet base of your homemade chocolate. The lemon juice will help enhance the flavors and add a fresh note.

3. Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes. This step is essential to allow the sugar to dissolve completely and achieve a fine texture.

4. After 15 minutes, add the butter and starch, stirring continuously until the butter melts completely. The starch will help thicken the chocolate, giving it a creamy texture. Be sure to use a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon to avoid scratching the saucepan.

5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the cocoa and rum essence. Mix well until all the ingredients are fully integrated. This is the moment when your chocolate becomes truly special. The aroma of cocoa and the rum essence will combine to create a rich and decadent flavor.

6. Prepare a tray by greasing it with butter. This step will not only help the chocolate not to stick, but it will also add a subtle buttery flavor. Pour the warm chocolate into the tray, making sure it is evenly distributed.

7. Sprinkle coconut on top, which will add a pleasant texture contrast and a tropical note. If you wish, you can experiment with other toppings, such as nuts or raisins, but the recipe works perfectly even without them.

8. Let the chocolate cool to room temperature, then place it in the refrigerator for 4-5 hours. The longer you let it sit, the better it will become, as the flavors will intensify. Also, the chocolate will become firmer, making it easier to cut.

9. Once the chocolate has completely cooled, you can cut it into cubes or desired shapes. We suggest cutting it with a damp knife for clean cuts.

Serving suggestions:
Homemade chocolate is delicious served plain, but you can pair it with a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for a truly indulgent dessert. It also goes wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee or a fragrant tea, transforming it into a perfect treat for pampering moments.

Nutritional benefits:
This homemade chocolate recipe is rich in calcium due to the powdered milk and contains antioxidants from cocoa. When consumed in moderation, it is a delicious choice that can provide a boost of energy and improve your mood.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use skimmed milk powder?
Yes, but the taste and final texture may be slightly different. Whole milk powder provides creamier chocolate.

2. What other flavors can I add?
You can experiment with almond, orange essences, or even spices like cinnamon to add an interesting twist.

3. Can I freeze homemade chocolate?
Yes, the chocolate can be frozen, but make sure it is well packaged to prevent it from absorbing odors from the freezer.

Possible variations:
If you want to make the chocolate healthier, you can use natural sweeteners or even melted dark chocolate instead of cocoa. You can also add dried fruits or seeds to add extra nutrients.

This homemade chocolate recipe is not only simple but also full of memories and emotions. So, put on an apron, gather the ingredients, and let your imagination soar! The delight you create will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!