Homemade chocolate

Homemade Chocolate – a classic delight for the soul and taste buds

Homemade chocolate is a beloved dessert cherished by many generations, evoking memories of moments spent with loved ones. This recipe is not just a simple treat; it is a true culinary experience that blends sweet flavors with childhood nostalgia. Making homemade chocolate can be a delightful activity, perfect for spending quality time with family or friends. Moreover, it is an excellent way to give a sweet and personalized gift to those dear to you.

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooling time: 12 hours (ideally overnight)
Number of servings: 24 (depending on portion size)

Ingredients

- 500 g milk powder
- 500 g sugar
- 150 ml water
- 1 pack (approximately 200 g) butter
- 1 packet vanilla sugar
- 4 tablespoons cocoa
- Rum essence (to taste)
- Nuts or hazelnuts (optional, 150 g)
- Small chocolate candies (for decoration)

Necessary utensils

- A medium saucepan
- A mixer or spatula
- A baking dish or tray (size depends on preference)
- A fork
- A sieve for sifting the milk powder

Step by step

Step 1: Preparing the syrup

Start by placing sugar, vanilla sugar, and water in a medium saucepan. Mix the ingredients to combine, then place the saucepan over medium heat. Allow it to boil, stirring occasionally. It is important to monitor the syrup's consistency, and to check if it is ready, you can perform a drop test: leave a drop of syrup on a cold plate; if it holds its shape, the syrup is thick enough.

Step 2: Adding the milk powder

Once the syrup has thickened, remove it from the heat and gradually add the sifted milk powder. Use a mixer or spatula to thoroughly incorporate the ingredients and avoid lumps. It is essential for the milk powder to be sifted to achieve a smooth texture.

Step 3: Incorporating the butter and nuts

Once the mixture is homogeneous, add the diced butter and the nuts or hazelnuts (if you choose to use them). Mix well until the butter is completely melted and incorporated into the mixture. Here you can also add the rum essence, which will enhance the flavor of your treat.

Step 4: Preparing the mold

Grease a baking dish or tray with butter to prevent the homemade chocolate from sticking. This step is crucial to ensure that your dessert will easily come out after cooling.

Step 5: Dividing the mixture

Divide the mixture into two equal parts. In the first half, pour the mixture into the prepared mold and smooth it out with a spatula.

Step 6: Preparing the cocoa mixture

In the second half, add the 4 tablespoons of cocoa and mix well until the cocoa is completely incorporated. Then pour this mixture over the first half in the mold, spreading it evenly.

Step 7: Creating the marbled effect

Using a fork, gently swirl the two layers of chocolate, making up-and-down motions to create an attractive marbled effect. This detail not only adds a pleasing visual aspect but also blends the flavors of the layers.

Step 8: Decorating and cooling

Sprinkle small chocolate candies on top for added flavor and a festive appearance. Then, cover the dish with plastic wrap or a lid and let it cool at room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 12 hours, ideally overnight.

Serving

Once cooled, cut the homemade chocolate into cubes or bars. You can serve them alongside a cup of coffee or tea, as these are excellent combinations. Additionally, a scoop of vanilla ice cream can perfectly complement your sweet treat, bringing a pleasant contrast of temperatures and textures.

Useful tips

- Ingredient variations: You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or pistachios, to add a personal touch. Additionally, replacing the rum essence with almond essence can provide a surprising flavor.
- Vegan chocolate: For a vegan version, you can replace the butter with cocoa butter or vegan margarine and use plant-based milk powder.
- Making it healthier: Reducing the amount of sugar or using a natural sweetener can make the recipe healthier without sacrificing much flavor.

Nutritional information

Homemade chocolate is a calorie-dense treat due to its sugar and fat content, but it is also packed with essential nutrients from the milk powder and nuts. A serving contains approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients and methods used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use whole milk powder?
Yes, whole milk powder will provide a richer taste and creamier texture.

2. How long can homemade chocolate be stored?
Homemade chocolate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container.

3. Is it possible to add other flavors?
Absolutely! You can add flavors such as cinnamon or cardamom to diversify the taste.

4. How can I improve the texture?
Ensure that all ingredients are well incorporated and that the syrup is thick enough before adding the milk powder.

Homemade chocolate is a simple dessert but has a strong impact on those who savor it. Whether you make it for a special occasion or just to treat your family, this dessert will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on an apron, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the magic of cooking!