Homemade chocolate

Homemade Chocolate - A Delight That's Easy to Make

Who doesn't love homemade chocolate? It's a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious dessert, perfect for moments when we want to indulge or impress our guests. This homemade chocolate recipe is ideal for anyone, from beginners to cooking masters, offering a fabulous result that will bring smiles to the faces of loved ones. I invite you to discover with me the magic of this simple yet flavorful dessert!

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooling Time: 12 hours
Total: 12 hours and 20 minutes
Number of Servings: approximately 20 pieces

Ingredients

- 180 g butter (ideally at room temperature for easier mixing)
- 250 g milk powder (preferably whole milk powder for a creamier texture)
- 100 g cocoa (choose a high-quality cocoa for a more intense flavor)
- 500 g sugar (for an extra touch of sweetness)
- 150 ml water (use mineral water for a better taste)
- 200 g hazelnuts (you can use roasted hazelnuts for a more intense aroma)

Step by Step: Making Homemade Chocolate

1. Preparing the Base Mixture
In a large bowl, add the milk powder and cocoa. Mix well with a spatula or wooden spoon until the two ingredients are completely combined. This step is essential to avoid lumps in the final mixture.

2. Adding the Butter
To the same mixture, add the butter cut into cubes. Use a fork or mixer to combine the butter with the milk powder and cocoa. You will achieve a creamy and uniform paste that will be the delicious base of the homemade chocolate.

3. Preparing the Syrup
In a saucepan, add the sugar and water. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. Let the syrup boil for 5-7 minutes until it becomes thick. It is important not to boil it too long, as it will become too hard.

4. Combining the Ingredients
Once the syrup is ready, pour it over the milk powder, cocoa, and butter mixture. Use a spatula to mix everything well until the ingredients are fully integrated. You will notice that the mixture becomes denser and shinier.

5. Adding the Hazelnuts
Incorporate the roasted hazelnuts into the mixture. You can leave them whole or chop them roughly, depending on personal preference. The hazelnuts add a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the chocolate.

6. Pouring into a Mold
Prepare a tray or mold (preferably silicone for easier removal of the chocolate) and grease it with a little butter. Pour the mixture into the mold, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Give it a little shock on the table to eliminate any air bubbles.

7. Cooling
Cover the mold with plastic wrap and let the chocolate cool at room temperature before moving it to the refrigerator. Let it set for 12 hours. This step is crucial, as the chocolate needs to harden well for a perfect texture.

8. Serving
After 12 hours, take the chocolate out of the refrigerator and cut it into cubes or rectangles, depending on preference. It is delicious and can be served plain or accompanied by a cup of tea or coffee.

Practical Tips

- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the butter mixture or even a pinch of salt to enhance the taste.
- If you want a richer chocolate, you can replace some of the milk powder with melted chocolate, adding it to the final mixture.
- For a vegan version, use coconut butter or margarine instead of butter and plant-based milk powder.

Nutritional Benefits

Homemade chocolate is a dessert that, although sweet, can provide an energy boost due to the content of hazelnuts, which are rich in protein and healthy fats. Cocoa is also an ingredient that contains antioxidants and can help improve mood.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another type of nut?
Of course! You can replace hazelnuts with walnuts, pistachios, or even raisins for a sweeter version.

- Can the chocolate be stored?
Yes, homemade chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Make sure it is well covered to prevent moisture absorption.

- How can I customize the recipe?
Experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even pieces of dried fruit for an exotic touch.

Delicious Combinations

This dessert pairs perfectly with a cup of black coffee or fragrant tea. Additionally, vanilla ice cream can add a refreshing and creamy note that will perfectly complement the homemade chocolate.

A Personal Note

I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, who showed me how to make homemade chocolate. Every time I prepare it, I recall those moments filled with love and flavor. I encourage you to make this recipe not just to enjoy a delicious dessert but also to create beautiful memories with your loved ones.

I hope this homemade chocolate recipe has inspired you and that you will try to prepare it. It is simple, quick, and, most importantly, extremely tasty! Bon appétit!