Step 1

In a large bowl, sift together the cocoa powder, powdered sugar, dry milk and salt.

Step 2

Add the corn syrup, melted butter and vanilla extract to a small bowl. Using a fork, whisk vigorously until everything is completely combined.

Step 3

Stir the syrup mixture into the dry mixture. It will at first appear like there isn't enough liquid to bring the tootsie roll dough together, but keep going. Using your hands knead the mixture together for a few minutes. Eventually it will go from powdery to chocolatey and smooth. Form the dough into a round disc.

Step 4

Using a sharp knife, cut the dough into 1/2-inch slices. Take one slice and roll it into a long, thin rope; cut the rope into 1-inch tootsie rolls. Transfer the cut tootsie rolls to a baking sheet or cooling rack. Repeat the process until you've formed about 30 tootsie rolls. Place the tootsie rolls in the fridge for 1 hour and until firm. Wrap the tootsie rolls in parchment or wax paper that are 3 1/2-inch x 2 1/2-inch squares.