Name: Homemade Chocolate Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488565H31M52S
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: General / American‑style
Ingredients: ¾ cup white sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1½ tablespoons all‑purpose flour; 1¼ cups milk; 2 tablespoons butter; ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or more to taste); a tiny pinch of salt

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A rich, velvety chocolate sauce that’s perfect for pouring over ice cream, drizzling on cakes, or stirring into hot milk for a cozy drink. This easy stovetop recipe delivers smooth chocolate flavor in minutes, using simple pantry staples.

Homemade Chocolate Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and versatile this chocolate sauce is. It’s ready in about 20 minutes and doesn’t require any fancy equipment—just a whisk and saucepan. The deep cocoa flavor balances beautifully with just the right amount of sweetness, and the texture turns silky smooth every time. Whether I’m topping off a dessert or jazzing up a morning coffee, this sauce does it all.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

¾ cup white sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1½ tablespoons all‑purpose flour
1¼ cups milk
2 tablespoons butter
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (or more to taste)
a tiny pinch of salt

Directions

I start by whisking together the sugar, cocoa powder, and flour in a bowl to remove any lumps.
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, I warm the milk, butter, and vanilla extract just until the butter melts.
I gradually add the dry mix into the warm milk mixture, whisking constantly to keep it smooth.
Then I turn the heat up slightly and bring it to a simmer, stirring all the while.
After about 6 minutes of cooking, I remove it from the heat and stir in a tiny pinch of salt.
I serve it hot over my favorite desserts or let it cool and store it in the fridge for later.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 1½ cups of chocolate sauce.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 5–6 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
Estimated Servings: 12

Variations

I sometimes use almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
To make it richer, I stir in a little heavy cream or add a few chocolate chips at the end.
For a mocha twist, I mix in a teaspoon of instant espresso powder.
I adjust the sugar depending on what I’m using it for—less for drinks, more for desserts.
If I want a thicker sauce for spreading, I just cook it a minute longer.

storage/reheating

I store the cooled sauce in an airtight jar or container in the refrigerator. It keeps well for up to a week. When I want to use it again, I reheat it gently in the microwave or in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until smooth. If it thickens too much, I simply whisk in a splash of milk to loosen it up.

FAQs

What can I use this chocolate sauce for?

I use it as a topping for ice cream, pancakes, waffles, and cakes. It’s also great stirred into coffee or milk for a quick mocha or hot chocolate.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, I swap the milk and butter with plant-based alternatives like almond milk and vegan butter to make it completely dairy-free.

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To get a thicker sauce, I cook it a minute or two longer. It also naturally thickens as it cools.

Can I freeze chocolate sauce?

I don’t usually freeze it because it keeps well in the fridge, but if I need to, I freeze it in small portions and thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

How long does it last in the fridge?

It lasts about 5 to 7 days in an airtight container. I always make sure it’s completely cooled before storing.

Conclusion

This homemade chocolate sauce is one of those go-to recipes I love having on hand. It’s simple, quick, and elevates anything it touches—desserts, drinks, or even breakfast. Whether I’m entertaining or treating myself, this sauce brings that extra something special.