How to Make Tootsie Rolls

Homemade chocolate rolls are not only fun to make but are also much chewier and fresher than the store-bought version of Tootsie Rolls, and they taste absolutely delicious. They make a great Christmas gift, and if you're looking for something different for a bake sale, look no further.

Things You'll Need

• 8 tbsp. cocoa powder, unsweetened
• 2 tbsp. softened butter
• 3 cups sugar (powdered or confectioner's)
• 3/4 cup dry milk
• 1/2 cup light corn syrup
• 1 tsp. vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Place the cocoa powder in a medium mixing bowl and blend in the softened butter, sugar, powdered milk, light corn syrup and vanilla.

2. Put the blended mixture on a sheet of waxed paper and knead it with your hands, as if you're kneading bread. Continue kneading until the mixture is soft and smooth. If the mixture is too dry and won't adhere, then add a bit of additional light corn syrup or butter.

3. Roll the chocolate roll mixture into long ropes and use a pair of kitchen shears or a sharp knife to cut them into smaller pieces, 1 to 2 inches in length.

4. Put the chocolate rolls on a large platter and allow them to firm up for a few hours.

5. Wrap the individual chocolate rolls in waxed paper or parchment paper similar to how the store-bought candy comes wrapped.

Tips & Warnings

• To make Christmas chocolate rolls, wrap the candy in small pieces of green or red cellophane. For an added touch, add a tiny piece of curling ribbon to one end.

• Be sure to use dry instant milk powder, not powdered milk.