Candle Fondue Sets: Are They Worth The Hype?

Candle fondue sets have been a popular choice for many people for centuries. They work by heating a small amount of wax, which then melts a small wick. The heat from the wax is used to melt chocolate, which can then be dipped into various treats such as fruit, marshmallows, or other small snacks. Candle fondue sets are relatively inexpensive, easy to use, and versatile. However, it's important to use them safely as the open flame can pose a fire hazard, and the chocolate can be difficult to work with if it's not kept at the right temperature.

Candle fondue sets for chocolate

The way they work is by heating a small amount of wax, which then melts a small wick. The heat from the wax then melts the chocolate, which can be used to dip fruit, marshmallows, cake, pretzels, bacon strips, brownies, cookies, Rice Krispies and other small snacks.

The number of tea lights you use depends on how much chocolate you are melting and how quickly you want it to melt. You can also melt the chocolate on the stove in a pot/double boiler and then transfer it to the fondue dish with the tea light to keep it warm.

There are some drawbacks to candle fondue sets, however. The heat from the candles can be too much for some people and they can be a fire hazard if not used properly. The chocolate can also be difficult to dip into and it can harden quickly if not kept at the right temperature.

Some chocolate fondue recipes include Nutella Fondue, Chambord Fondue, Amaretto Fondue and Chocolate-Covered Cherry Fondue.

Candle fondue sets for cheese

When shopping for a candle fondue set for cheese, there are a few things to keep in mind. Firstly, the pot should be thick-bottomed with a sturdy handle, and the stand should be secure. The heat source should ideally be adjustable, and the forks should have long stems with wooden handles for safe handling. Candlelit burners are typically used for dessert fondues and require very little heat, so a small tea light is usually sufficient. However, for cheese fondue, you may need a stronger heat source such as gel fuel or alcohol burners.

If using tea light candles, place the candle below the fondue pot and light it with a match. For gel fuel or alcohol burners, follow the manufacturer's instructions and exercise caution as these fuels are highly flammable. Make sure the burner is completely cool before filling it and never overfill it. Use a match to light the fuel and ensure the air holes are open.

When preparing cheese fondue, it is recommended to use about 3.5 oz (100 g) of cheese per guest when used as an appetizer and 7 oz (200 g) of cheese per guest when used as a main meal. Common types of cheese used for fondue include Swiss, fontina, gruyere, emmentaler, cheddar, and Monterey Jack. An acidic ingredient such as wine or lemon juice is added to break up the stringiness of the cheese. The cheese and acid mixture can be combined on the stove before being transferred to the fondue pot.

Some candle fondue sets for cheese come with ceramic pots that have impressive heat resistance and glazed surfaces, making cleanup easy. These sets are also designed to be practical and easy to operate, with space-saving features when stored or transported. Overall, candle fondue sets for cheese can be a great addition to your dining experience, providing a fun and intimate way to enjoy delicious fondue.

Pros and cons of candle fondue sets

Candle fondue sets have been a popular choice for centuries, and they are still used by many people today. They are a great way to enjoy a tasty treat with friends or family. However, there are some pros and cons to using candle fondue sets that should be considered before purchasing one.

One of the benefits of candle fondue sets is that they are relatively inexpensive and easy to use. They can also be used in a variety of settings, as they do not require an electrical power source. Candle fondue sets are perfect for melting chocolate, as they provide a gentle heat that won't burn the chocolate. Tea light candles are typically used to melt chocolate and keep it warm.

However, there are some drawbacks to using candle fondue sets. One of the main concerns is safety, as the open flame can be a fire hazard if not used properly. Additionally, the heat from the candles may be too intense for some people, and it can be difficult to control the temperature. The chocolate can sometimes be challenging to dip into, and it may harden quickly if not kept at the right temperature.

For those who are uncomfortable with open flames, electric fondue pots are a safer alternative. They are easy to use and clean, and they maintain a consistent temperature, making them ideal for fondue. However, electric fondue pots require access to a power outlet, which may not always be convenient.

Overall, candle fondue sets can be a fun and inexpensive way to enjoy fondue with friends or family. However, it is important to carefully follow the instructions and take the necessary safety precautions when using an open flame.

How to use a candle fondue set

Candle fondue sets have been a popular choice for many people for centuries. They are inexpensive, easy to use, and versatile. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use a candle fondue set:

• Preparation: Candle fondue sets are typically used for chocolate fondue. Before attempting to warm the fondue, melt the chocolate in a double boiler on the stove. You will also need to prepare the tea light candle by placing it in a safe holder underneath the fondue pot. Ensure you have a stable surface, such as a wooden cutting board or a ceramic tile, to protect your table from any heat or wax drips.
• Lighting the Candle: Use a candle-dipped in tealight, or a match or lighter, to light the candle. Be cautious and avoid using a lighter with an open flame near the fuel.
• Melting the Chocolate: Place the melted chocolate in the fondue pot. The heat from the candle will keep the chocolate warm and melted. If the chocolate starts to harden, simply stir it gently to help it melt again.
• Dipping: Use fruit, marshmallows, or other small snacks of your choice to dip into the melted chocolate. Enjoy the tasty treat with friends or family!
• Extinguishing the Candle: When you are finished, use the lid of the candle to extinguish the flame. Do not attempt to blow it out, as this could cause hot wax to splatter.

Remember to always use candle fondue sets with caution and follow the safety instructions provided with your set. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby in case of any accidents.

Types of fondue sets

Fondue sets are a great way to enjoy a fun and interactive meal with friends and family. While cheese and chocolate are the most common types of fondue, these sets can also be used for heating broth or oil to cook meat, or even for a hot pot.

There are two main types of fondue sets: electric and manual. Electric fondue pots have a heating element built into the base or sit on an electric burner, making them easy to adjust the heat. They are also safer than manual sets as they don't use an open flame. Manual fondue pots, on the other hand, are usually set over an open flame, such as a candle or fuel burner.

Electric Fondue Sets:

• Cuisinart Electric Fondue Pot: This highly-rated electric fondue pot has eight heat settings, a non-stick insert for easy cleanup, and color-coded forks. It is a trusted brand and performs well in lab tests.
• Dash Deluxe Stainless Steel Fondue Maker: This electric fondue maker is perfect for parties, with eight color-coded forks and attachable ingredient cups. It has a precise temperature dial and a non-stick stainless steel pot that is dishwasher-safe.
• Oster Titanium-Infused DuraCeramic 3-Quart Fondue Pot: This electric fondue pot has a PFOA-free DuraCeramic non-stick coating and adjustable heat control. It comes with eight color-coded forks and a breakaway magnetic cord for safety and compact storage.

Manual Fondue Sets:

• Swissmar Lugano 9-Piece Cheese Fondue Set: This traditional-style, enameled cast iron fondue pot has excellent heat retention and a wrought-iron stand. It can be used with gel fuel, an electric burner, or a stovetop, making it versatile.
• All-Clad Cast Aluminum Fondue Pot: A gorgeous and versatile fondue set with a stainless steel outer pot and a non-stick aluminum insert. It can be used with a candle or chafing fuel and has a wobble-free base and sharp-tined, color-coded forks.
• Boska Tea Light Tapas Fondue Set: This adorable 7-ounce ceramic fondue pot is easy to use and can be heated with a tealight candle or in the microwave. It's also dishwasher-safe.

Other Types:

• Chocolate Fountains: While not technically a fondue pot, chocolate fountains are a fun and impressive way to serve chocolate fondue at parties. The Nostalgia 24-Ounce Chocolate Fondue Fountain is a great option.
• Raclette Grills: Raclette grills are another Swiss invention for cheese lovers. The Hamilton Beach Electric Raclette Table Grill can be used by up to eight people and has non-stick surfaces for easy cleanup.

When choosing a fondue set, consider factors such as heating style (electric vs manual), material (stainless steel, ceramic, or enameled cast iron), temperature control, safety measures, the number of forks, and size.

Frequently asked questions