This recipe is Gluten Free, Dairy Free and COELIAC FRIENDLY – Making it the only dessert topping you will ever need!

If you’re after a rich, velvety chocolate sauce that ticks all the dietary boxes, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re navigating food allergies, coeliac disease, or simply cutting out dairy, this chocolate sauce is here to sweeten your day—without upsetting your gut.
As a New Zealand mum, cook, and food lover, I know how tricky it can be to find treats that everyone can enjoy—especially when you’re trying to avoid gluten and dairy. So here’s everything you need to know about making a chocolate sauce that’s gluten-free, dairy-free, and 100% coeliac-friendly.
Why Choose a Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Chocolate Sauce?
More and more Kiwis are looking for ways to cater for allergies, intolerances, or lifestyle changes—especially when it comes to the treats we drizzle over ice cream, cakes, pancakes, or a sneaky spoonful straight from the jar.
This kind of chocolate sauce is perfect for:
- Coeliac or gluten-sensitive eaters
- Dairy-free diets or vegan lifestyles
- Allergy-aware family gatherings
- Lunchbox-safe school options
The best part? You won’t miss the butter or cream—this sauce still brings that deep, chocolatey flavour with a silky texture.

What Makes It Coeliac-Friendly?
Coeliac-friendly means more than just gluten-free ingredients. It means avoiding cross-contamination, using certified gluten-free products, and keeping things safe for those who can’t take even a trace of gluten.
If you’re buying premade sauce, always check for:
- A certified gluten-free label
- A dairy-free or vegan tick
- No mention of “may contain gluten” or “made in a facility that also processes wheat”
If you’re making it from scratch, use cocoa powder, dairy-free milk alternatives (like almond, oat, or coconut milk), and gluten-free thickeners like cornflour if needed.

The Best Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free Chocolate Sauce (That’s Coeliac-Friendly Too!)
FAQs About Gluten-Free Dairy-Free Chocolate Sauce
Is cocoa powder gluten free?
Yes, pure cocoa powder is naturally gluten free, but always check the label for added ingredients or processing info.
Can I make chocolate sauce without dairy?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream, oat milk, or almond milk to get that creamy texture—without the lactose.
Is it safe for coeliacs?
It can be! Just make sure you’re using certified gluten-free ingredients and preparing it in a clean, gluten-free kitchen space.
Can I use it for baking or just as a topping?
Both! This sauce is beautiful drizzled over cakes or ice cream, but you can also swirl it through brownie batter or mix it into a vegan hot chocolate.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, it freezes well in small jars or containers. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and stir before using.
Sweet, Safe, and Simple
Finding a chocolate sauce that’s gluten-free, dairy-free and coeliac-friendly doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour. Whether you’re catering for dietary needs or just want a sauce everyone can enjoy—this one’s a keeper.
Imagine this on top of your ice cream, a teaspoon in your coffee or even on top of your waffles.

The ‘Friendly’ Chocolate Sauce Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Medium Sized Pot
- 1 sterilised bottle (500mls)
- 1 Whisk
- 1 funnel
Ingredients
- 2 cups castor sugar 400 grams
- 1 cup cocoa powder 100 grams
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 cup boiling water 250 ml
- 4 Tbsp golden syrup
Instructions
- Pop all of the ingredients into a medium sized pot. Place over a low heat, and stir with a whisk until the sugar has dissolved.
- Remove your whisk and allow the sauce to come to a rolling boil (when it bubbles and fold on itself). Leave for 30 seconds (ish) before turning off the heat.
- Pour into a sterilised clean jar and allow to cool. It will thicken as it cools.
- It can be stored in your fridge for up to a month (if it lasts that long).
Notes
- When you take the sauce from the fridge it may be too thick to pour. Gently heat it in a pot of water, or in the microwave to soften it.
- Use this sauce as a delicious home made gift for your neighbour or perhaps your child’s teacher.
- The next time you purchase a glass bottle of juice at a cafe – pop the bottle in your bag and take home to wash. These make great bottles for gifts.
- There are many ways to sterilise jars. One easy way is to boil them for 10 minutes submerged in water. Or place your washed jar in an oven at 120 for 15 minutes.
