- 1/2 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional toppings: nuts, dried fruits, candy, etc.
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, and salt.
- Slowly add the melted coconut oil and vanilla extract, stirring until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.
- Pour the chocolate mixture into silicone molds or a lined baking dish. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- If desired, add your choice of toppings, pressing them gently into the surface of the chocolate.
- Place the mold or dish in the refrigerator and let the chocolate set for at least 2 hours, or until fully hardened.
- Once set, remove the chocolate bars from the molds or cut them into squares if using a baking dish.
- Enjoy your homemade chocolate bars!
Servings and timing
- Servings: Makes about 12 chocolate bars (depending on size)
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Refrigerating Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
Variations
- Dark Chocolate: Use dark cocoa powder for a richer, more intense flavor.
- Milk Chocolate: Replace cocoa powder with milk powder for a creamier texture.
- Nutty Chocolate: Add crushed almonds, hazelnuts, or walnuts for a delightful crunch.
- Fruit-filled Chocolate: Incorporate dried fruits such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots for added sweetness and texture.
- Vegan: Ensure all ingredients, including the vanilla extract, are plant-based and free from dairy.
Storage/Reheating
Store your homemade chocolate bars in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one week. If you live in a particularly warm climate, it’s best to refrigerate them to prevent melting. To reheat, simply place the chocolate in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water, stirring occasionally until melted.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of oil instead of coconut oil?
Yes, you can use vegetable oil or butter as a substitute, but coconut oil gives the chocolate a unique flavor and texture.
2. How long does it take for the chocolate bars to set?
It usually takes about 2 hours for the chocolate bars to set completely in the refrigerator.
3. Can I add other ingredients to the chocolate mix?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, dried fruits, or even spices like cinnamon or chili powder for a unique flavor.
4. Can I use sweetened cocoa powder?
If you use sweetened cocoa powder, you may want to reduce the amount of powdered sugar in the recipe to balance the sweetness.
5. How should I store homemade chocolate bars?
Store them in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
6. Can I use chocolate chips instead of cocoa powder?
While chocolate chips can work, using cocoa powder gives you more control over the texture and sweetness of the chocolate.
7. Can I make this recipe without vanilla extract?
Yes, vanilla extract adds a nice flavor, but you can skip it if you prefer.
8. Can I make these chocolate bars in advance?
Yes, you can make these chocolate bars ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for up to a week.
9. What molds should I use?
Silicone molds work best, but you can also use a lined baking dish and cut the chocolate into squares.
10. Can I make these chocolate bars with white chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute the cocoa powder for white chocolate chips, melting them with the coconut oil and adding sugar to sweeten the mix.
Conclusion
Homemade chocolate bars are a fun and simple treat that you can easily customize to your taste. Whether you prefer a classic chocolate bar or want to experiment with different flavors and toppings, this recipe is a great starting point. Plus, it’s a wonderful gift idea for loved ones or a special snack for yourself. Give it a try, and enjoy the deliciousness!
Homemade Chocolate Bars
Make your own rich, creamy homemade chocolate bars with this simple recipe. Perfect for those craving a sweet treat, you can customize these chocolate bars by adding nuts, dried fruits, or your favorite toppings. This easy-to-follow homemade chocolate bar recipe will quickly become a family favorite!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: : 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 bars
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop, No-Bake
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 1 cup cocoa butter (about 230g)
- 1 cup cocoa powder (unsweetened)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Optional toppings: chopped nuts, dried fruit, sea salt, or crispy rice
Instructions
- Melt the cocoa butter: In a double boiler or microwave, melt the cocoa butter until smooth.
- Mix cocoa powder and sugar: Once the cocoa butter is melted, add the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Stir until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour into molds: Pour the chocolate mixture into chocolate molds or a lined baking dish.
- Add toppings: If desired, sprinkle chopped nuts, dried fruits, or crispy rice on top for added texture and flavor.
- Chill: Refrigerate the chocolate for about 2 hours, or until firm.
- Remove from molds: Once the chocolate bars are set, pop them out of the molds and enjoy!
Notes
- Store these homemade chocolate bars in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- If you don’t have a double boiler, you can easily melt the cocoa butter in the microwave by heating it in short intervals, stirring in between.
