Imagine you’re in the kitchen, prepping for a batch of fudgy brownies or a creamy chocolate milkshake, and your recipe calls for a can of Hershey’s Syrup. You pause, wondering, “How many ounces in a can of Hershey’s Syrup?”
This question is common among home cooks and dessert lovers across the U.S. Hershey’s Syrup, a staple since 1926, has transitioned from iconic tin cans to modern plastic bottles, leaving many nostalgic for the classic packaging.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer your question, explore the history of Hershey’s Syrup cans, share delicious recipes, and recommend where to buy Hershey’s Syrup today.
Whether you’re baking, mixing drinks, or drizzling syrup over ice cream, this post equips you with everything you need to make your chocolate creations unforgettable.
How Many Ounces in a Can of Hershey’s Syrup?
A classic Hershey’s Syrup can contained 16 ounces (1 pound) of rich chocolate syrup, equivalent to approximately 1 1/3 cups by volume.
This size was standard for decades until Hershey’s switched to plastic bottles in the late 1970s. Today, the most common size is the 24-ounce bottle, which provides 2 cups of syrup, perfect for recipes requiring more than the old can size.
For recipes calling for a 16-ounce can, simply measure out 16 fluid ounces or 1 1/3 cups from a 24-ounce bottle. Larger options, like the 48-ounce bottle or 7 lb 8 oz jug, are available for bulk users.
Quick Conversion Guide:
- 16 oz can = 1 1/3 cups.
- 24 oz bottle = 2 cups.
- 48 oz bottle = 4 cups.
This clarity ensures your recipes, whether for brownies or chocolate milk, turn out perfectly every time. Check out Hershey’s Syrup product details for current offerings.
The Nostalgic History of Hershey’s Syrup Cans
Hershey’s Syrup debuted in 1926, initially sold in 5.5-ounce and 18-ounce tin cans for commercial use, such as soda fountains and bakeries. By 1934, the 16-ounce can became the standard, featuring the iconic Hershey’s logo.
These cans, manufactured by Hershey’s from 1956 onward, were beloved for their durability and nostalgic charm. The shift to 24-ounce plastic bottles began in the late 1970s, with full discontinuation of cans by 1979, driven by consumer demand for convenience and modern packaging trends.
Why Did Hershey’s Switch to Bottles?
- Ease of Use: Squeeze bottles eliminated the need for can openers, making pouring simpler.
- Preservation: Plastic bottles resist rust and maintain freshness longer.
- Consumer Trends: Competitors like Nestlé adopted plastic, prompting Hershey’s to follow suit.
Many fans, as noted in Amazon reviews, believe the canned syrup had a thicker consistency and richer flavor, though ingredients remain consistent (high fructose corn syrup, cocoa, water, etc.).
The nostalgia for cans persists, with some collectors seeking vintage tins on eBay. Dive into Hershey’s history at Hershey Community Archives.
Hershey’s Syrup Today: Sizes and Versatile Uses
Hershey’s Syrup is now available in various sizes to suit different needs:
- 24 oz bottle: Perfect for home kitchens, ideal for chocolate milk or small-batch desserts.
- 48 oz bottle: Great for frequent bakers or large families.
- 7 lb 8 oz jug: Designed for commercial use or serious chocolate lovers.
- 21.8 oz Simply 5 Syrup: A healthier option with only five ingredients, no high fructose corn syrup.
Creative Uses for Hershey’s Syrup:
- Chocolate Milk: Mix 2–3 tablespoons with 8 oz of cold milk for a classic treat.
- Desserts: Drizzle over ice cream, pancakes, or waffles for instant decadence.
- Baking: Add to brownies, cakes, or cookies for deep chocolate flavor.
- Beverages: Enhance mochas, hot cocoa, or milkshakes with a chocolatey twist. Find more uses on Hershey’s recipe page.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Hershey’s Syrup
Accurate measurements are key to perfect recipes. Follow these steps:
- Review Your Recipe: Check if it specifies volume (cups) or weight (ounces). Most older recipes assume a 16 oz can (1 1/3 cups).
- Convert Measurements: Use a 24 oz bottle and measure 16 fluid ounces or 1 1/3 cups for can-based recipes.
- Measure Precisely: Pour into a liquid measuring cup or use a kitchen scale for weight. For sticky syrup, lightly oil the measuring cup for easy release.
- Store Properly: Refrigerate leftover syrup in the bottle to maintain freshness for up to 6 months.
Nutritional Information and Health Considerations
A 2-tablespoon (30ml) serving of Hershey’s Syrup provides:
- Calories: 45
- Sugar: 15 grams (53% sugar by weight, per EWG)
- Fat: 0 grams (fat-free)
- Gluten-Free: Certified gluten-free, ideal for those with sensitivities.
- Kosher: Certified by the Orthodox Union.
Health Notes:
- The standard syrup contains high fructose corn syrup, which may concern health-conscious consumers due to its link to obesity when consumed in excess.
- The Simply 5 Syrup uses cane sugar and syrup, offering a cleaner ingredient list.
- Store opened syrup in the fridge to preserve quality, as unrefrigerated syrup may lose flavor over time.Check EWG’s Food Scores for detailed nutritional insights.
Hershey’s Syrup Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds
Hershey’s Syrup shines in desserts and drinks. Here are two popular recipes:
1. Hershey’s Syrup Brownies
Ingredients:
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/3 cups (16 oz) Hershey’s Syrup
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup chocolate chips
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch pan.
- Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs one at a time, beating well.
- Stir in Hershey’s Syrup, then flour, and fold in chocolate chips.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before serving.
2. Hershey’s Chocolate Milkshake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups vanilla ice cream
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup (3 oz) Hershey’s Syrup
Instructions:
- Blend ice cream, milk, and syrup until smooth.
- Pour into a chilled glass, top with whipped cream, and drizzle with extra syrup.
Where to Buy Hershey’s Syrup in the U.S.
Hershey’s Syrup cans are discontinued, but bottles are widely available:
- Supermarkets: Walmart, Target, Kroger ($3–$5 for 24 oz).
- Online: Amazon, Instacart, and Hershey’s official store.
- Collectibles: Vintage cans may appear on eBay, but expect high prices ($10–$50).
Amazon Affiliate Product Recommendations:
1. Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup, 24 oz (Pack of 3)
- Features: Three 24 oz bottles, gluten-free, kosher, perfect for chocolate milk, desserts, and baking.
- Reasons to Buy: Ideal for families or frequent bakers, this pack offers value and versatility. Customers love its rich flavor and ease of use for recipes like brownies.
- Buy Now: Amazon Link
2. Hershey’s Simply 5 Chocolate Syrup, 21.8 oz (Pack of 6)
- Features: Made with five ingredients (cane sugar, cane syrup, water, cocoa, vanilla), no high fructose corn syrup, gluten-free.
- Reasons to Buy: Health-conscious choice for those avoiding artificial ingredients. Reviewers praise its clean taste and suitability for kids.
- Buy Now: Amazon Link
3. Hershey’s Sugar-Free Chocolate Syrup, 17.5 oz (Pack of 3)
- Features: Sugar-free, low-calorie (10 calories per 2 tbsp), great for keto or diabetic diets.
- Reasons to Buy: Perfect for health-focused consumers who want chocolate flavor without sugar. Mixed reviews note good taste for milk and ice cream, though some report a metallic aftertaste.
- Buy Now: Amazon Link
4. Hershey’s Chocolate Flavored Syrup Bulk Jug, 7 lb 8 oz
- Features: Massive 120 oz jug, ideal for large families or events, gluten-free, kosher.
- Reasons to Buy: Cost-effective for bulk users, great for parties or commercial kitchens. Customers appreciate its value and consistent flavor.
- Buy Now: Amazon Link
5. Atrevo Syrup Pump for Hershey’s Gallon Jug
- Features: Fits 7 lb 8 oz jugs, dispenses 1 oz per pump, BPA-free.
- Reasons to Buy: Enhances usability for bulk syrup jugs, reducing mess. Ideal for frequent users or commercial settings.
- Buy Now: Amazon Link
Substitutes for Hershey’s Syrup Cans
If you’re nostalgic for the can’s texture or can’t find Hershey’s Syrup, consider:
- Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce: Thicker, premium option for desserts.
- Torani Chocolate Syrup: Great for coffee and milkshakes.
- Nestlé Nesquik Syrup: Budget-friendly with similar flavor.
- Homemade Chocolate Syrup: Combine cocoa, sugar, water, and vanilla for a DIY version.
- Carob Syrup: Caffeine-free, healthier alternative.
Comparing Hershey’s Syrup to Other Chocolate Syrup Brands
When choosing a chocolate syrup, Hershey’s is a classic, but how does it stack up against other popular brands in the U.S.? Whether you’re baking brownies, making chocolate milk, or drizzling over ice cream, understanding the differences can help you pick the perfect syrup for your needs.
Below, we compare Hershey’s Syrup to top competitors—Ghirardelli, Torani, Nestlé Nesquik, and Monin—based on taste, texture, price, and dietary considerations. This guide will help you decide which syrup suits your recipes, budget, and health preferences.
Comparison Table: Hershey’s Syrup vs Competitors
| Brand | Size | Price (Approx.) | Taste & Texture | Dietary Features | Best For |
| Hershey’s Syrup | 24 oz | $3–$5 | Rich, sweet, medium thickness | Gluten-free, kosher, fat-free | Chocolate milk, baking, desserts |
| Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce | 16 oz | $5–$7 | Premium, rich, thicker consistency | Gluten-free, no high fructose corn syrup | Ice cream, coffee, gourmet desserts |
| Torani Chocolate Syrup | 25.4 oz | $6–$8 | Balanced, slightly thinner, coffee-friendly | Gluten-free, kosher | Coffee drinks, milkshakes |
| Nestlé Nesquik Syrup | 22 oz | $2–$4 | Sweet, kid-friendly, thinner texture | Gluten-free, budget-friendly | Kids’ chocolate milk, casual use |
| Monin Chocolate Syrup | 12 oz | $7–$10 | Intense, gourmet, smooth texture | Gluten-free, vegan, no artificial flavors | Specialty coffee, cocktails |
Detailed Comparison
1. Hershey’s Syrup
Why Choose It?
Hershey’s is a household name with a versatile, crowd-pleasing flavor. Its 24 oz bottle is widely available at U.S. retailers like Walmart and Amazon, making it convenient for home cooks. The Simply 5 version caters to those seeking fewer artificial ingredients.
Best Use
Ideal for classic recipes like brownies, chocolate milk, or ice cream sundaes. Its affordability and availability make it a go-to for families.
Drawbacks
Contains high fructose corn syrup, which may deter health-conscious buyers. Some find it less rich than premium brands.
Amazon Link: Hershey’s Chocolate Syrup, 24 oz (Pack of 3)
2. Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce
Why Choose It?
Known for its premium quality, Ghirardelli offers a thicker, richer syrup that elevates desserts. It uses real cocoa and no high fructose corn syrup, appealing to gourmet cooks.
Best Use
Perfect for drizzling over ice cream or adding to mochas for a luxurious touch. Its smaller 16 oz bottle suits occasional use.
Drawbacks
Higher price point and smaller size compared to Hershey’s. Less versatile for baking due to thickness.
Amazon Link: Ghirardelli Chocolate Sauce, 16 oz
3. Torani Chocolate Syrup
Why Choose It?
Torani is a favorite for coffee lovers, with a smooth, slightly thinner texture that blends well in lattes and milkshakes. Its 25.4 oz bottle offers good value.
Best Use
Great for coffee shop-style drinks or dessert toppings. Gluten-free and kosher, it’s widely available online.
Drawbacks
Less intense chocolate flavor than Hershey’s or Ghirardelli, better suited for beverages than baking.
Amazon Link: Torani Puremade Chocolate Syrup, 25.4 oz
4. Nestlé Nesquik Syrup
Why Choose It?
Budget-friendly and kid-approved, Nesquik is sweeter and thinner, making it a hit for chocolate milk. Its 22 oz bottle is often cheaper than Hershey’s.
Best Use
Ideal for quick, kid-friendly drinks or casual desserts. Widely available at U.S. supermarkets like Target.
Drawbacks
Less versatile for baking due to its thinner consistency and sweeter profile. Contains high fructose corn syrup.
Amazon Link: Nestlé Nesquik Chocolate Syrup, 22 oz
5. Monin Chocolate Syrup
Why Choose It?
Monin offers a gourmet, intense chocolate flavor with a smooth texture, perfect for specialty coffee or cocktails. Its vegan and gluten-free formula appeals to niche diets.
Best Use
Best for baristas or mixologists creating mochas, hot cocoa, or dessert cocktails. The 12 oz bottle is pricier but high-quality.
Drawbacks
Smaller size and higher cost make it less practical for everyday use or large recipes.
Amazon Link: Monin Dark Chocolate Syrup, 12 oz
Which Should You Choose?
- For Budget and Versatility: Hershey’s Syrup is the best all-around choice for U.S. households, balancing cost, availability, and flavor.
- For Premium Desserts: Ghirardelli or Monin suits gourmet recipes or coffee drinks.
- For Kids or Casual Use: Nestlé Nesquik is affordable and kid-friendly.
- For Coffee Enthusiasts: Torani or Monin excels in beverages.
FAQs
1. How many ounces were in a Hershey’s Syrup can?
A classic Hershey’s Syrup can held 16 ounces (1 1/3 cups). Modern bottles are typically 24 ounces, with larger 48 oz and 7 lb 8 oz options available.
2. When did Hershey’s stop making syrup in cans?
Hershey’s phased out cans in the late 1970s, fully transitioning to plastic bottles by 1979 for convenience and preservation.
3. Is Hershey’s Syrup in cans the same as in bottles?
The ingredients (high fructose corn syrup, cocoa, water, etc.) are identical, but some users report a thicker consistency and richer flavor in cans, possibly due to manufacturing differences. Amazon reviews note cans felt “less watered down.”
4. Is Hershey’s Syrup gluten-free?
Yes, Hershey’s Syrup is certified gluten-free, containing less than 20 ppm gluten, making it safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
5. How should I store Hershey’s Syrup?
Refrigerate after opening to maintain freshness for up to 6 months. Unrefrigerated syrup may lose flavor but is unlikely to spoil due to preservatives.
6. Where can I find vintage Hershey’s Syrup cans?
Vintage cans are rare but may appear on eBay or at specialty collectible stores. Expect prices from $10–$50 depending on condition.
7. Has Hershey’s Syrup recipe changed over time?
The core recipe remains consistent, though the Simply 5 version uses cane sugar instead of high fructose corn syrup for a cleaner taste. Some fans note slight texture differences between cans and bottles.
Conclusion
With the answer to “How many ounces in a can of Hershey’s Syrup?”—16 ounces (1 1/3 cups)—you’re ready to tackle any recipe with confidence. From its nostalgic tin cans to today’s convenient 24-ounce bottles, Hershey’s Syrup remains a beloved choice for U.S. chocolate lovers.
Use our recipes for brownies and milkshakes, explore our recommended Amazon products, and share your creations with friends. Whether you’re a home cook or a dessert enthusiast, Hershey’s Syrup brings sweetness to every moment.