Skip to main content

5 Timeless HERSHEY'S Chocolate Desserts

Published: Nov 02, 2026

The HERSHEY Movie is out in theaters this November, and we’re getting ready to celebrate Milton Hershey’s legacy in true Hershey style: with a classic treat!

There’s no better way to celebrate Hershey history than through baking. We’ve compiled five classic recipes that show why baking with HERSHEY’S Cocoa, HERSHEY’S Syrup and HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate has been a cherished part of family traditions for over a century.

Why We Love Classic Chocolate Recipes

What makes a recipe a classic? We think it comes down to simple, reliable ingredients and a rich history of being loved by generations of bakers.

At Hershey, we love hearing from families who have been baking with Hershey products for decades. There’s something special about baking with a grandparent and then introducing your own kids to that same recipe. And besides, a good chocolate recipe never goes out of style!

Ready to take a step back in time? Try these five classic chocolate recipes that continue to be a favorite of Hershey fans everywhere.

1. “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake

There’s nothing like an old fashion, no frills chocolate cake. Rich, moist and dependable, HERSHEY’S “Perfectly Chocolate” Chocolate Cake is always a crowd pleaser. Birthdays, family gatherings, holidays—there’s never a bad time to indulge in a slice of chocolate cake. Hershey lovers agree; this recipe has 4.7 stars and 675 ratings!

“I have been making this cake for over 50 years. Started when I first got married…It has been a family favorite ever since. Glad to see that it is still the same and hasn't been changed.”

— Happybaker, Hersheyland Reviewer

2. Chocolate Bread Pudding

When we say bread pudding has been a beloved dish for a long time, we mean a really long time—bread pudding can be traced back to 11th century England! Now, bread pudding is known as the ultimate comfort dessert that’s easy to customize to your taste. We add cocoa powder and pips of HERSHEY’S SYMPHONY Candy Bar to ours to give it a Hershey’s twist.

3. Peanut Butter Blossoms

You might know Peanut Butter Blossoms as “your favorite holiday cookie.” Loved by kids and adults alike since their creation in 1957, there are now countless variations of blossoms for every season and holiday. But you can’t go wrong with the classic: a chewy peanut butter cookie topped with a HERSHEY’S KISSES Milk Chocolate Candy.

“I have made these every Christmas for 50+ years. They are a family favorite…They are beautiful and disappear quickly!”

— Agnes, Hersheyland Reviewer

4. Cocoa Spiced Doughnuts

Warm baking spices and rich HERSHEY’S Cocoa combine in these homemade donuts. The flavor combination feels comforting and timeless, and the recipe is easy enough for a beginner baker. Make a batch this weekend and serve alongside a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.

5. HERSHEY’S Best Brownies

Brownies are believed to have been first introduced in 1893 at the Chicago World’s Fair. Decades later, "Chocolate Brownies Deluxe" appeared in the 1934 Hershey's cookbook. And now they’re still a go-to dessert for chocolate lovers. Rich, fudgy and easy to share, you can serve a classic brownie or make them even more decadent with frosting, chopped nuts, or sweets like REESE’S PIECES or HERSHEY’S Milk Chocolate Chips.

“These brownies were fudgy chocolate brownie goodness in every bite...I will be keeping this recipe and make them whenever that urge for brownies hits!”

— MamaRaybs, Hersheyland Reviewer

The Story of HERSHEY'S Cocoa

HERSHEY’S Cocoa was first introduced way back in 1894 as one of the first products sold by The Hershey Chocolate Company. Since then, it’s been a kitchen staple for home bakers.

Cocoa powder brings a concentrated chocolate flavor that adds richness to desserts without adding extra fat or moisture. This creates the perfect texture for baked goods like cakes, cookies and brownies while still packing an intense chocolate punch.

FUN FACT

Milton Hershey believed chocolate should be accessible and enjoyable for everyone. That spirit continues today in the recipes we create for families to bake together!

A Sweet Way to Celebrate the HERSHEY Movie

The HERSHEY Movie gives us the chance to reflect on Milton’s remarkable legacy, built on innovation, community and, of course, chocolate. So, grab your HERSHEY’S Cocoa, preheat the oven and bake your way through Hershey history with these timeless family favorites.