Homemade Chocolate Syrup for Chocolate Milk & More

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Last Updated on 02/06/2025 by Kacie Barlow

If you’re on the hunt for a healthier alternative to store-bought chocolate syrup, this homemade chocolate syrup recipe will be a new favorite. My boys absolutely love it, and as a mom, I feel so much better knowing exactly what’s going into their chocolate milk (and more).

It’s made with simple, natural ingredients you already have in your pantry like rich cacao powder, milk, and wholesome raw cane sugar. No high fructose corn syrup, no weird additives—just real foods for a rich, chocolatey treat the whole family will love.

This homemade chocolate syrup recipe is a little indulgence that aligns with a healthier, more natural lifestyle. And best of all, it’s a fun and easy way to ditch the chemicals and enjoy an old-fashioned favorite in a cleaner, more intentional way.

homemade chocolate syrup

This is truly such a great recipe if you’re looking to make your own homemade chocolate syrup and I know you will love it just as much as me! 🙂

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Simple Ingredients for Homemade Chocolate Syrup

  • ½ cup cacao powder (for a rich chocolate flavor and added nutrients)
  • 1 cup milk (any milk or milk alternative of your choice)
  • 1 cup raw cane sugar (coconut sugar is a great option or regular granulated sugar if it’s all you have on hand)
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract (for depth of flavor)
  • Pinch of salt (to enhance the chocolatey goodness)

If you’re like me, you probably grew up with Hershey’s cocoa powder.

Now, there’s no denying that is was (and still is) super delicious, but it’s also loaded with added sugars and processed ingredients. So, I made the switch to organic cacao powder.

It’s a product I can get behind because it’s minimally processed, packed with antioxidants, and full of rich, chocolatey flavor.

For the milk, I use raw milk. We’re big fans of raw milk in our house because of its amazing benefits, like being easier on digestion and loaded with enzymes and nutrients.

But hey, I get it—raw milk isn’t everyone’s thing. No judgment here! This recipe works just as well with any milk or milk alternative you prefer.

Now, for the sweetener: when I have raw cane sugar on hand, it’s my go-to. But I’ll be honest—when I’m out, I’m not above tossing in some regular granulated sugar.

However you tweak it, this recipe always turns out deliciously creamy and satisfying!

Must-Have Mason Jar Hack for the Best Homemade Chocolate Milk

I love pouring my homemade chocolate milk into a mason jar with those handy mason jar spout lids (you can easily snag from Amazon).

They make pouring super easy and mess-free, and they’re so convenient for storing in the fridge or grabbing on the go.

Amazon Links

How to Make Chocolate Syrup at Home

This homemade syrup comes together in a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, using cacao powder, organic cane sugar, and a pinch of salt for the perfect balance of sweetness and depth.

A little vanilla extract at the end rounds it out beautifully.

Want a thinner syrup for iced coffee or homemade mocha? Just add an extra cup of water to adjust the consistency.

Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cacao powder and coconut sugar. Gradually add the milk, stirring until smooth.

Heat and Stir

Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

Simmer and Thicken

Reduce heat to low and let the syrup simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.

Add Vanilla and Salt

Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Cool and Store

Let the syrup cool before transferring it to a mason jar with lid or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

Pour it into a mason jar or a squeeze bottle for easy home use, and you’ll have the perfect topping for hot chocolate, chocolate milkshakes, bake cheesecake, or drizzling over the top of ice cream and fresh fruits.

Whether you’re making chocolate gravy for biscuits or a rich hot fudge sauce, this easy recipe is a good way to ditch Hershey’s chocolate syrup for a homemade version that’s just better. 🙂

How Long Will Homemade Chocolate Syrup Last?

Homemade chocolate syrup will last up to 2 weeks when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator (although it goes quick over here for us).

For best results, give it a quick shake or stir before use as it may thicken slightly when chilled.

What’s the Difference Between Chocolate Sauce and Chocolate Syrup?

The main difference lies in their consistency and use.

  • Chocolate syrup is thinner and typically made with water or milk, making it ideal for mixing into drinks like chocolate milk.
  • Chocolate sauce is thicker and often includes cream or butter, making it better for drizzling over desserts like ice cream or pancakes.

What Keeps Chocolate Syrup From Hardening?

The combination of milk and sugar prevents the syrup from hardening. Sugar dissolves into the liquid, maintaining a pourable consistency even when refrigerated. If the syrup thickens too much, you can thin it by stirring in a splash of warm milk.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Chocolate Syrup Recipe

This homemade chocolate syrup is:

  • All-natural and refined sugar-free
  • Versatile, perfect for chocolate milk, hot cocoa, or drizzling over desserts
  • Quick and easy to make with just a few pantry staples
  • Customizable—swap the almond milk for dairy milk, or add a dash of cinnamon for extra warmth

It’s the perfect way to make a rich and creamy chocolate milk, stir it into your morning coffee for a mocha boost, drizzle over homemade ice cream, or simply enjoy it in a glass of milk.

It feel so nice to say goodbye to store-bought syrups and hello to this healthier, tastier alternative. Your family will love it, and you’ll love knowing exactly what’s in it!

Try this recipe today and experience the joy of homemade chocolate milk with no guilt, no additives, and all the flavor. Enjoy!

homemade chocolate syrup for chocolate milk
Kacie Barlow

Homemade Chocolate Syrup for Chocolate Milk

A rich, homemade chocolate syrup made with real cacao and natural sweeteners. Perfect for stirring into milk or drizzling over desserts!
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Condiments, Drinks, Sauces
Cuisine: American, homemade
Calories: 120

Ingredients
  

  • ½ cup cacao powder for a rich chocolate flavor and added nutrients
  • 1 cup milk any milk or milk alternative of your choice
  • 1 cup raw cane sugar coconut sugar is a great option or regular granulated sugar if it’s all you have on hand
  • ½ tsp vanilla extract for depth of flavor
  • Pinch of salt to enhance the chocolatey goodness

Method
 

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together the cacao powder and coconut sugar. Gradually add the milk, stirring until smooth.
  2. Heat and Stir: Place the saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
  3. Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat to low and let the syrup simmer for 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly.
  4. Add Vanilla and Salt: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
  5. Cool and Store: Let the syrup cool before transferring it to a jar or airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.

About The Author

Founder at  | Website |  + posts

Kacie is a wife, homeschool mom of 4 boys, holistic esthetician, and a sixth-generation homesteader with a passion for natural and sustainable living, creating a home that educates the mind and nurtures the soul, and reclaiming our independence like our ancestors before us.

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