Homemade Chocolate Syrup

We have been making homemade chocolate syrup every week this summer.  I can say with some certainty that it will be a staple in our refrigerator from now on.  We put it into a squeeze bottle for perfect dispensing every time.  It makes the best tasting chocolate milk. :)  This is one the easiest recipes ever and what a reward!  Pure chocolate flavor, all natural, only 5 ingredients!  Cocoa Powder, sugar, vanilla, water, and a pinch of salt.  I have been making homemade mocha ice coffee (picture above) as a mid-morning treat.  Just use a little of the coffee from breakfast, chocolate syrup, milk, and ice.  Delicious!!!

Homemade Chocolate Syrup
slightly adapted from Alice Medrich, Bittersweet, page 295

¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder ( I prefer natural, Scharffen Berger Brand)

1 cup sugar (or use less if you prefer)

Pinch of kosher salt

1 cup boiling water

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Mix the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt in a small saucepan.  Stir in the boiling water to form a smooth paste.  Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat, stirring constantly.  Let the syrup simmer for about 2 minutes.  Remove from heat, stir in the vanilla, and let cool.  Pour into a squeeze bottle or jar and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.