If you’ve ever wondered how to make chocolate at home, you’re in for a treat. This homemade chocolate recipe has become one of my favorite kitchen staples. It’s rich, silky, and ridiculously easy. Plus, it only takes three simple ingredients you may already have in your pantry: no refined sugar, no preservatives, just pure chocolatey goodness. Once you try this, you might not go back to store-bought again!
And let me tell you…this recipe is shockingly easy. I was honestly surprised the first time I made it. It comes together in minutes and the texture is so smooth and melty. Even my husband, who usually doesn’t care much for sweets, came back for seconds. That’s saying something!
Why You’ll Love This Homemade Dark Chocolate Recipe
This is hands down my go-to recipe when I need a quick chocolate fix or a healthier alternative to traditional chocolate bars. It’s naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making it refined sugar-free, and the coconut oil adds the perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Plus, you can totally customize it with fun toppings like nuts, flaky sea salt, or dried fruit. This is my favorite chocolate recipe to use in baking that requires melted chocolate!
What You’ll Need to Make 3-Ingredient Homemade Chocolate
Cocoa Powder (1/2 cup)
Make sure it’s sifted so your chocolate is smooth and lump-free. This is the base of your chocolate and gives it that rich, dark flavor.
Coconut Oil (1/2 cup, melted)
This is what gives the chocolate its glossy texture and helps it set properly in the fridge. I prefer unrefined coconut oil for a hint of coconut flavor, but refined works too if you want a more neutral taste.
Maple Syrup (1/4 cup)
Natural and mineral-rich, maple syrup is my favorite sweetener for this recipe. It keeps the chocolate free of refined sugar but still plenty sweet.
Variations for Homemade Chocolate
Add-Ins & Toppings
- Chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
- Dried cranberries or cherries
- Shredded coconut
- A sprinkle of sea salt or cinnamon
- A splash of vanilla or almond extract
How to Make Chocolate
- Sift the Cocoa Powder: Start by sifting 1/2 cup of cocoa powder into a medium bowl. This step is key to avoiding lumps.
- Add Melted Coconut Oil: Pour in 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil and whisk until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Sweeten with Maple Syrup: Add 1/4 cup of maple syrup and stir until fully combined. Taste and adjust if you want it sweeter.
- Pour Into a Mold: Transfer the chocolate mixture into a silicone mold, parchment-lined baking dish, or muffin tin lined with paper cups.
- Add Toppings (Optional): This is the fun part! Sprinkle on your favorite toppings before the chocolate sets.
- Chill Until Firm: Place the chocolate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until it’s completely set. Then break into pieces or pop them out of the mold.
Storage & Make Ahead Tips
Store your homemade chocolate in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will stay good for up to two weeks, though it rarely lasts that long in our house. You can also freeze it if you want to make a big batch ahead of time.
Expert Tips & Tricks
- Don’t skip the sifting step; it makes a big difference in texture.
- If your chocolate starts to separate, keep whisking! It will come back together.
- For firmer chocolate that holds up at room temp, try adding a tablespoon of nut butter.
- Use this as a base for recipes like brownies, homemade muddy buddies, or even chocolate drizzle on oatmeal.
- Don’t have a mold? No problem! Just use a mini muffin pan lined with paper liners (what I do most of the time). You can also pour the chocolate into a parchment-lined loaf pan and break it into chunks once it sets.
Serving Homemade Chocolate
This homemade dark chocolate makes a perfect after-dinner treat or sweet snack. It also works beautifully as a gift! Just wrap a few squares in parchment and tie with twine. I love adding it to dessert boards or melting it down for dipping strawberries. It’s endlessly versatile!
Related Recipes
- Muddy Buddy Recipe | Puppy Chow Recipe
- How to Make Chocolate (With Only 3 Ingredients!)
- Easy Pie Crust Recipe with No Shortening (Just Butter)
FAQs
This version is definitely healthier than most store-bought chocolate! It’s refined sugar-free and uses natural ingredients.
Yes, though it will change the flavor a bit. Make sure to use runny honey so it mixes well.
Technically yes, but it won’t have the same glossy finish or set the same way. I recommend sticking with coconut oil.
You probably skipped sifting the cocoa powder. Sifting helps ensure a smooth texture.
Absolutely! Just adjust the amount of maple syrup to your taste.
This exact recipe is the perfect base! You’re combining cocoa powder with coconut oil and maple syrup; no need for cacao butter or special equipment.
Use a bit less maple syrup if you like it extra rich and dark. You can also add a pinch of sea salt or espresso powder to bring out the flavor.
Homemade Chocolate (3-Ingredients)
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder sifted
- 1/2 cup coconut oil melted
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Sift cocoa powder into a medium bowl.1/2 cup cocoa powder
- Add melted coconut oil and whisk until smooth.1/2 cup coconut oil
- Stir in maple syrup and mix until fully combined.1/4 cup maple syrup
- Pour mixture into a silicone mold or lined pan.
- Add toppings if desired.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until set.
Video
Notes
- Always sift cocoa powder for best texture.
- Use refined coconut oil for a neutral taste.
- Adjust sweetness by using more or less maple syrup.
- Add-ins like chopped nuts or dried fruit are a great way to mix it up.
- This chocolate is perfect for baking or enjoying on its own!
Love this easy chocolate recipe! I also like that it doesn’t use processed sugar.