Chocolate Fondue: Adding Cream, A Good Idea?

Chocolate fondue is a fun and interactive dessert that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It typically consists of melted chocolate combined with cream, milk, or other ingredients, creating a rich and indulgent treat. The addition of cream to chocolate fondue is a matter of personal preference, as some recipes call for it while others do not. However, cream can enhance the flavour and texture of the fondue, making it silkier, creamier, and more decadent.

How to thin chocolate fondue

Chocolate fondue is a fun and easy dessert to make, but sometimes it can turn out too thick or too thin. If your fondue is too thick, there are several ways to thin it out and achieve the perfect consistency. Here are some tips and tricks to help you thin your chocolate fondue to perfection:

Add Milk or Cream

The easiest way to thin chocolate fondue is to simply add a little more liquid. Stir in small amounts of milk or cream until you reach your desired consistency. You can also use half-and-half or heavy cream if that's what you have on hand. Be sure to add the liquid gradually and stir well after each addition to avoid making the fondue too thin.

Melt Additional Chocolate

If you want to thin your fondue without adding more liquid, you can try melting some extra chocolate. Slowly add an ounce or so of melted chocolate to your fondue, being careful not to add too much at once. This will help thicken the fondue without thinning it out too much.

Use a Double Boiler

When melting additional chocolate, it's best to use a double boiler to avoid seizing the chocolate. Seizing occurs when even a small amount of water gets into the chocolate, causing it to become thick and grainy. By using a double boiler, you can gently melt the chocolate without the risk of water getting into it.

Cornstarch and Whipping Cream

Another way to thicken your fondue without adding liquid is to use cornstarch. Whisk together a small amount of cornstarch and whipping cream, and then mix this into your melted chocolate. The cornstarch will help thicken the fondue without affecting its taste.

Powdered Cocoa

If you don't have cornstarch on hand, you can also use powdered cocoa to thicken your fondue. Add a small amount of powdered cocoa at a time, stirring well after each addition, until you achieve your desired consistency.

Allow the Fondue to Cool

Sometimes, all you need to do is let the fondue cool down a bit. As chocolate cools, it naturally thickens, so you may find that a little patience is all you need to get the perfect consistency.

Remember, it's always easier to make fondue thinner than thicker, so start with small amounts of liquid or chocolate when adjusting your fondue's consistency. With these tips, you'll be able to create a smooth and creamy chocolate fondue that's perfect for dipping all your favourite treats!

What to dip in chocolate fondue

Chocolate fondue is a fun and interactive dessert that can be enjoyed by everyone. While the obvious choice for dipping is fruit, there are endless possibilities for what you can dip into that chocolatey goodness. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Fresh Fruit

Fruit is probably the most popular item to dip in chocolate fondue. Strawberries are a classic choice and are often seen as the most romantic option. However, other fruits such as bananas, pineapple, mango, papaya, apples, pears, oranges, and blackberries also work great. If you're feeling adventurous, try dipping dried fruit such as apricots, mangoes, or figs.

Cookies and Baked Goods

Cookies and baked goods are also excellent choices for dipping in chocolate fondue. Oreos, shortbread, biscotti, and gingerbread biscuits are all great options. Small cookies or cookie pieces are best for dipping, but you can also dip larger items like brownies or Rice Krispie treats. If you're feeling indulgent, try dipping pretzels, potato chips, or even cheesecake cubes!

Sweet and Savory Treats

For a sweet and salty combination, try dipping pretzels, potato chips, or candied bacon in your chocolate fondue. Marshmallows are also a classic choice and can be enjoyed on their own or sandwiched between graham crackers for a s'mores-like treat. If you're looking for a more indulgent option, try dipping mini donuts, cake slices, or even mini pancakes in your fondue.

Nuts and Popcorn

Larger nuts, such as pecan halves or macadamias, can also be dipped in chocolate fondue. Just be sure to use larger nuts as smaller ones like peanuts may be tricky to skewer. Sweet and salted popcorn is another great option for dipping, providing a delicious combination of sweet and salty flavors.

So, there you have it! These are just a few ideas to get you started on your chocolate fondue journey. Get creative and experiment with different dipper ideas to find your favorites. Happy dipping!

The history of chocolate fondue

The Swiss have a long history of enjoying hearty meals, including cheese fondue, which was promoted as a Swiss national dish by the Swiss Cheese Union in the 1930s. The classic Swiss cheese fondue consists of melted cheese and wine served in a communal pot, with bread and vegetables for dipping. This communal style of dining inspired the creation of new fondue varieties, and chocolate fondue was a natural sweet extension.

Credit for the invention of chocolate fondue is often given to Chef Konrad Elgi of New York's Chalet Swiss restaurant. In the 1950s, he created the bourguignon variation of fondue, featuring beef cubes cooked in hot oil, and in the 1960s, he is said to have developed the chocolate version as a dessert option. The Mayans could also claim some credit, as they were the first to serve chocolate in pots as a thick, dense drink over 2,500 years ago.

Chocolate fondue is a simple yet decadent dessert that has stood the test of time. The basic recipe includes good-quality milk chocolate, heavy cream, and optional liqueur, melted together to form a smooth and velvety sauce. The dipping options are endless, from fruit and cake to cookies, pretzels, and marshmallows.

Chocolate fondue is a versatile dessert that can be tailored to personal preferences and creativity. It can be made with different types of chocolate, such as dark, white, or flavored varieties, and customized with a variety of liqueurs or extracts. The consistency can also be adjusted by adding more cream or milk to suit individual tastes.

Today, chocolate fondue is enjoyed worldwide, with dedicated fondue restaurants and special fondue nights at home. It remains a popular choice for parties and gatherings, bringing people together in a communal dining experience that is both interactive and indulgent.

How to keep fondue warm

Keeping your chocolate fondue warm is essential to maintaining its smooth, dippable texture. Here are some tips to ensure your chocolate fondue stays warm throughout your meal:

Use a Fondue Pot

If you have a fondue pot, this is the easiest way to keep your chocolate fondue warm. Simply place the pot on the burner and turn it to low heat. This will keep your fondue at the ideal temperature without boiling it. Fondue pots are available in a variety of materials, including metal, ceramic, and electric. Metal fondue pots, such as those made of stainless steel or enameled cast iron, are sturdy and can be placed directly on the stovetop. Ceramic fondue pots are great for retaining heat and are often microwave-safe. Electric fondue pots are a safer option and heat up quickly, but they are more expensive and require a nearby power outlet.

Tea Lights or Candles

If you don't have a fondue pot, you can use tea lights or candles to keep your fondue warm. Place the candle in a small saucer and position it under the fondue pot to keep it warm. Make sure the candle is not directly underneath the pot to avoid overheating. Alternatively, you can suspend the fondue pot over the candle to ensure even heating. Tea lights or candles are a good option if you want to follow the traditional presentation of fondue.

Slow Cooker or Hotplate

Small tabletop stoves, slow cookers, or hotplates can also be used to keep your fondue warm. Place the fondue pot on the stove, slow cooker, or hotplate and adjust the heat to low. This will keep your fondue at a simmer without boiling it. Make sure the appliance you choose is safe to use on your dining table and has adjustable heat settings.

Reheat Fondue as Needed

If you don't have access to any of the above options, you can always reheat your fondue as needed. Use your regular kitchen stove to heat the fondue before serving, and return it to the stove when it starts to cool down. However, this method can be inconvenient as you'll need to get up and reheat the fondue periodically.

What kind of chocolate to use

The type of chocolate you use for your chocolate fondue is important. Not all chocolate chips melt well, so it's best to use good-quality chocolate. Some recommended brands include Ghirardelli or Guittard bittersweet or semisweet chips. If you can't get your hands on those, a chocolate baking bar is a good alternative. Generally, it's best to avoid using chocolate chips from brands like Nestle, as they may not melt well and can affect the taste of your fondue.

For a deep chocolate flavour, opt for bittersweet chocolate with at least 60% cacao. You can also use semi-sweet chocolate chips or a mix of both. If you prefer your fondue to be less dark, you can add some white chocolate, but you may need to add a little extra cream to thin out the mixture.

If you're making a large batch of fondue, it's best to use a mix of dark and milk chocolate to balance the flavours. Using milk chocolate on its own might make the fondue too sweet, while bittersweet chocolate could make it too bitter. Experiment with different combinations to find the perfect balance for your taste preferences.

Additionally, if you want to add some extra flavour to your fondue, you can try extracts like orange, peppermint, or vanilla. A small amount of liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or amaretto, can also be a nice touch for adult guests.

Frequently asked questions