Fondue Fountain Fun: How Long Can You Keep It Running?

Chocolate fountains are a fun addition to any party or celebration. They are a great way to serve food and delight guests. But how long can you run a fondue fountain?

The length of time you can run a fondue fountain depends on several factors, including the amount of chocolate, the size of the fountain, and the number of guests. A standard fountain typically holds about 4 lbs of chocolate and can serve around 10-20 people. A smaller fountain may hold just 1 lb of chocolate, while a larger one can accommodate up to 5 lbs.

It is important to note that the chocolate needs to be melted before adding it to the fountain, and oil may need to be added to achieve the right viscosity. The fountain should also be levelled properly to ensure even flow.

Once the fountain is set up and running, it is best to keep it running until all the chocolate is consumed. Turning it off and on can cause the chocolate to harden and clog the machine. If you need to stop the fountain for any reason, it is important to unplug it and remove any remaining chocolate, as hardened chocolate can damage the machine.

Overall, with proper set-up and maintenance, a fondue fountain can run for several hours, providing a delightful and entertaining centrepiece for any event.

Fountain assembly

The first step in assembling your fondue fountain is to wash all the parts with warm soapy water. This will get rid of any dirt or dust that may have accumulated while the parts were in the box. Allow the parts to air-dry.

Next, you'll want to attach the auger tube to the base. The specific instructions for doing this will depend on the model of your fondue fountain, so be sure to refer to the instructions that came with your fountain. In general, the tube should stand straight up from the base. If your auger tube has multiple parts, you will first need to lock them together to create a longer tube. It's also worth noting that some parts may already be assembled, depending on the brand of your fondue fountain.

If your fondue fountain has multiple tiers, you will need to attach these to the auger tube. Start with the largest tier, sliding it down the auger and locking it into place, then continue with the second-largest tier, and so on. Make sure to slide the tiers face-down so that they don't trap and hold the chocolate as it runs down the fountain. Again, some fountains may come with the tiers already attached to the auger tube.

The next step is to install the auger, which is the corkscrew-shaped component that drives the chocolate up the fountain. Slide the auger down the centre of the auger tube and twist it clockwise into the base until you feel some light resistance. This means that the auger is locked and ready to use.

Finally, lock the crown into place. The crown secures the auger from the top end and is the finishing touch of your fountain assembly.

Once you've assembled your fondue fountain, you should test it by plugging it into an electrical outlet and running the machine without chocolate to ensure that it's functioning properly.

Fountain location

When setting up your fondue fountain, it is important to consider the location. The location of your fondue fountain is one of the most important factors in its success or failure. Here are some things to keep in mind when choosing a spot:

• Heating and air conditioning ducts: Avoid placing the fountain near heating or air conditioning ducts, as this can affect the temperature of the chocolate and impact its flow.
• Traffic flow: Choose a location that is easily accessible for guests but not in a high-traffic area where people are constantly walking by, as this could increase the risk of accidents.
• Pet access: If you have pets, make sure they cannot access the fountain, as they could knock it over or get hurt.
• Wind, rain, and bugs: Keep the fountain away from open windows or doors to prevent wind and rain from affecting the chocolate. Also, consider using bug repellent or screens to keep bugs away.
• Small children: Ensure that the fountain is placed out of reach of small children to avoid any accidents or messes.
• Electrical cord: Be mindful of where you lay the electrical cord to prevent tripping hazards. Tape the cord to the ground if necessary.

Once you have found a suitable location, make sure the surface is level. Use a bubble level to check that the fountain is plumb level. This is important because melted chocolate flows according to the laws of physics.

If you are setting up the fondue fountain outdoors, consider the wind and choose a location that is shielded from strong gusts. Even a gentle breeze can affect the flow of chocolate, so it is best to keep the fountain in a sheltered spot.

Additionally, if you are using a large fondue fountain, make sure there is enough clearance between the tiers and the ceiling. You don't want your guests bumping their heads on the tiers or the chocolate dripping onto the ceiling!

When choosing a location for your fondue fountain, it is also important to consider the surrounding decorations and atmosphere. The fountain should be the focal point, so avoid placing it in a cluttered area or against a busy backdrop. Instead, opt for a simple backdrop that complements the colour of the chocolate.

If you are using multiple fondue fountains, space them out evenly to avoid overcrowding and allow for a smooth flow of traffic.

Finally, make sure there is enough room around the fondue fountain for guests to gather and dip their treats without feeling cramped. You may also want to consider providing a small table or surface for guests to place their plates and drinks while they enjoy their fondue creations.

Chocolate type

The type of chocolate you use in your fondue fountain is important. Not all chocolate is created equal and some types will not melt well or will have an undesirable taste.

If you are using a Wilton-branded fountain, the manufacturer suggests using Wilton Chocolate Pro Chocolate Melting Wafers, which are made especially for their chocolate fountains. These chocolate wafers don't need to be tempered and are designed to melt easily.

You can also use most milk, dark or white chocolate with your fountain. However, you will need to add oil to your chocolate to get it to the right viscosity. The exact amount of oil will depend on the type of chocolate you are using. For example, a ratio of one tablespoon of coconut oil per cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips works well.

If you are using a combination of chocolates, you may need to adjust the amount of oil accordingly. It is always a good idea to do a test run with your chosen chocolate and oil mixture before your event to ensure that it flows smoothly.

Some recommended brands of chocolate for fondue fountains include:

• Ghirardelli
• Guittard
• Baker's
• Tollhouse

It is important to note that candy melts are not suitable for use in chocolate fountains as they do not have the right viscosity and may break your machine.

Chocolate preparation

Chocolate fountains are a fun addition to any party or event. They are a great way to serve food and delight guests. You can use any type of chocolate in your fountain, but some types may require additional preparation. Couverture chocolate, for example, is a higher-quality option that contains 32-39% cocoa butter. This type of chocolate can taste better and look silkier when running in the fountain. If you choose to use a different type of chocolate, you may need to add vegetable or canola oil to soften the texture. For example, you can add 1 cup of oil per 5 pounds of chocolate.

When preparing the chocolate for your fountain, it is important to melt it beforehand. You can do this in a microwave (for at least three minutes) or with a double boiler. It is recommended to melt the chocolate only a couple of hours before your event to ensure it remains warm and liquid. Once melted, place the chocolate in tubs inside a plastic or Styrofoam cooler to insulate it and keep it warm.

If you want to enhance the flavour of your chocolate or improve its flow, you can add oil. A ratio of one tablespoon of coconut oil per cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips works well and tastes delicious. However, you can also use other types of oil, such as vegetable or canola oil. It is important to note that the chocolate and oil mixture should be fully melted and well combined before pouring it into the fountain.

Another option for chocolate preparation is to use chocolate wafers specifically designed for chocolate fountains, such as the Wilton Chocolate Pro Chocolate Melting Wafers. These wafers do not need to be tempered and are made to melt easily, providing a delicious and convenient option.

Additionally, it is crucial to avoid getting any water into the chocolate, as even a few drops can cause it to seize. Always use dry utensils when melting chocolate, and be cautious when adding any liquids to the mixture.

Fountain cleaning

Once the fun is over, it's time to clean your fondue fountain. Here are the steps to do it properly:

• Turn off the machine and let it cool down.
• Use a silicone spatula to scrape as much chocolate as possible into the bowl.
• Remove the auger and tower and carefully scrape them.
• Wash the fountain parts in warm, soapy water and dry with a clean towel. Do not submerge the bowl/base unless specified in the owner's manual.
• Wipe down the base and bowl with a soapy cloth or paper towel. Do not put these pieces under running water.
• Let everything air dry.

It is important to clean your fondue fountain immediately after use. If you wait until the next day, the chocolate will harden, making the cleaning process much more difficult.

You can also save any leftover chocolate by scraping it off the fountain into a plastic bag or airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three weeks or frozen for up to a year.

Frequently asked questions