Gourmet Dark Chocolate

Making chocolate from scratch may seem like a difficult task, but it is actually quite simple and quick to make. Dark chocolate is the easiest of chocolates to make as it requires only 4 ingredients to make a deliciously rich and creamy treat in under 15 minutes. These ingredients are cocoa butter, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and salt. Other ingredients can be added such as vanilla extract, peppermint extract, shredded coconut, toasted almonds, or citrus zest. Once you master this simple base recipe feel free to experiment with more difficult flavors such as peanut butter and caramel. The world of chocolate awaits!

1/2 cup cocoa butter (I use this one from amazon)

1/2 cup cocoa powder

1/4 cup maple syrup

1/8 tsp salt

1. Prepare a double boiler system by boiling water in a saucepan over medium high heat and placing a glass or stainless steel mixing bowl over the water. This will prevent the chocolate from burning due to direct heat from the stove element. If you own an actual double boiler, use that instead.
2. Turn the element down to medium low heat and add your cocoa butter to the boiler. Allow it to melt.

1. Add the cocoa powder to the melted cocoa butter and stir to combine.
2. Add the maple syrup and salt to the boiler and stir again until smooth.
3. If using additional flavors such as peppermint extract or orange zest, add them at this point.

1. Pour chocolate from boiler into mold. I am using miniature muffin shells, but you could also use silicon chocolate molds or an ice cube tray.
2. Add any additional solid flavorings such as roasted almonds, coconut, or crushed pistachio.
3. Put the chocolate into the refrigerator until solidified.

You are finished! Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.

These chocolates make great gifts, if you don't eat them all yourself.