Make a smooth, rich chocolate sauce using only five simple pantry ingredients. This quick recipe is perfect for topping ice cream, pancakes, or using as a fruit dip.
Author:Claire
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:About 1.5 cups1x
Category:Dessert Topping
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:American
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Combine the sugar, cocoa powder, and salt in a small saucepan. Whisk these dry ingredients together until fully mixed.
Pour in the water. Whisk the mixture until it is smooth and there are no lumps.
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent scorching.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for exactly one minute, stirring occasionally. Do not overcook.
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the vanilla extract until it is fully incorporated.
Allow the sauce to cool for about 5 to 10 minutes before serving. The sauce will thicken slightly as it cools.
Notes
For a darker, richer flavor, substitute 1/4 cup of the water with 1/4 cup of strong brewed coffee.
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer for an extra minute, but watch closely.
This sauce is excellent for meal planning; store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
For a glossy finish, stir in one tablespoon of cold butter just after removing the sauce from the heat.