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Homemade Hershey Cocoa Powder Recipes That Deliver Bold Chocolate Flavor - Rich, Reliable, and Easy

Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings 8 servings

Ingredients
  

  • Hershey unsweetened cocoa powder (natural, not Dutch-processed)
  • All-purpose flour
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar (light or dark)
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Kosher salt
  • Unsalted butter
  • Neutral oil (canola or vegetable)
  • Large eggs
  • Whole milk (or 2% in a pinch)
  • Heavy cream (optional for frosting)
  • Pure vanilla extract
  • Confectioners’ sugar (for frosting)
  • Chocolate chips (optional, for extra richness)
  • Mini marshmallows (optional, for hot chocolate)

Instructions
 

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9x9-inch pan with parchment, leaving overhang for easy lifting.
  • In a microwave-safe bowl, melt 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter. Whisk in 1/4 cup neutral oil and 1 cup granulated sugar until glossy.
  • Whisk in 2 large eggs and 2 teaspoons vanilla until the mixture thickens slightly.
  • Sift in 3/4 cup Hershey cocoa powder, 3/4 cup all-purpose flour, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Fold gently until just combined. For extra richness, fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips.
  • Spread batter evenly in the pan. Bake 18–22 minutes, until the center is just set and a toothpick comes out with moist crumbs.
  • Cool in the pan for 20–30 minutes. Lift out, slice cleanly with a warm knife, and serve.
  • In a small saucepan, whisk together 3 tablespoons Hershey cocoa powder, 3 tablespoons granulated sugar, and a pinch of salt.
  • Whisk in 2 tablespoons hot water to form a smooth paste. Cook over medium heat for 30–45 seconds to bloom the cocoa.
  • Gradually whisk in 1 3/4 cups milk. Heat until steaming, not boiling.
  • Remove from heat and stir in 1/2 teaspoon vanilla. Taste and adjust sweetness.
  • Top with marshmallows or whipped cream if you like.
  • Beat 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temp until creamy, 2 minutes.
  • Sift together 2 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar and 3/4 cup Hershey cocoa powder to remove lumps.
  • With the mixer on low, add the sugar-cocoa mix gradually. Add a pinch of salt.
  • Beat in 2–4 tablespoons milk or heavy cream until fluffy and spreadable. Finish with 1 teaspoon vanilla.
  • Whip on medium-high 1 minute for extra lightness.