Chocolate Fondue Feast For A Small Group

Chocolate fondue is a fun and interactive dessert that is perfect for parties, movie nights, or even as a decadent after-school snack. It typically consists of melted chocolate combined with cream and various flavourings, served with an assortment of dippers such as fruits, cookies, and other sweet treats. A 4-pound chocolate fondue can serve a large group of people, but the exact number of servings will depend on the size of the portions and the variety of dippers provided. On average, a 4-pound fondue can serve around 16 people if each person is served a 1/4 cup portion. However, this can vary depending on the thickness of the fondue and the type of dippers offered.

Best chocolate types for fondue

When it comes to making chocolate fondue, the type of chocolate you use is important. Here are some of the best options:

Milk Chocolate

Milk chocolate is a classic choice for fondue as it melts easily and has a sweet flavour that pairs well with a variety of dippers. However, it may be too sweet for some, especially when paired with other sweet treats.

White Chocolate

White chocolate, made from cocoa butter, sugar, milk solids, and vanilla, offers a different fondue experience from milk chocolate. It pairs especially well with most types of fruit.

Semisweet Chocolate

Semisweet chocolate strikes a balance between milk and dark chocolate, as it contains about 35% cocoa. It is a great choice for fondue as it has the right amount of sweetness and flavour.

Bittersweet Chocolate

Bittersweet chocolate typically contains about 50% cocoa, giving it a rich flavour without being overpowering like dark chocolate. This variety works well in fondue, especially when paired with sweeter treats.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate has the highest cocoa content, making it the most bitter but also the most flavourful. It makes a unique fondue that goes well with sweet treats like pound cake and brownies.

Couverture Chocolate

Couverture chocolate has a higher percentage of cocoa butter, resulting in a smooth and glossy finish. It is a popular choice among professionals for dipping or coating and is perfect for fondue as it melts easily.

Chocolate Morsels or Chips

Chocolate morsels or chips are convenient for fondue as they are already in small pieces and melt easily. They come in a variety of flavours like white, milk, semisweet, and dark chocolate.

Melting Wafers

Chocolate melting wafers are designed to melt and maintain a liquid consistency, making them ideal for fondue. They have a smooth texture and rich flavour, perfect for dipping fruit, cake, cookies, and more.

Compound Chocolate

Compound chocolate is a lower-cost option made with cocoa, vegetable fat, and sugar. While it may not melt as well as other types of chocolate, it can be used for fondue in a pinch.

Best dippers for chocolate fondue

A four-pound chocolate fondue is a lot of fondue! It's enough to feed a large group of people, especially if you're serving other foods as well. To make the most of your fondue, you'll want to provide your guests with a variety of dippers to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Fruits

Fresh fruit is a classic fondue dipper and for good reason. Fruits provide a nice contrast of textures and flavours, especially when paired with rich, creamy chocolate. Go for fruits that are in season, or try a mix of tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and papaya for a sweet and juicy treat. Some specific fruits that work well include:

• Strawberries
• Banana slices
• Apple slices
• Orange or tangerine wedges
• Cherries
• Kiwi
• Grapes
• Melon
• Berries of all kinds

Baked Goods

Cake and chocolate are a match made in heaven, so why not include some baked goods on your fondue board? Here are some ideas:

• Pound cake
• Angel food cake
• Sponge cake
• Red velvet cake
• Brownies
• Blondies
• Cookies (shortbread, peanut butter, chocolate chip, Oreos, gingerbread, etc.)
• Biscotti
• Mini donuts
• Mini pancakes
• Waffles

Sweet Treats

In addition to fresh fruit and baked goods, there are plenty of other sweet treats that can be dipped in chocolate fondue. Here are some options:

• Marshmallows
• Rice Krispie treats
• Cheesecake cubes
• Honeycomb
• Pretzels
• Popcorn (sweet, salty, or caramel)
• Fudge
• Candy (caramels, peanut brittle, cinnamon bears, etc.)
• Graham crackers
• Potato chips

Savoury Options

While sweet dippers are the most popular choice for chocolate fondue, don't be afraid to think outside the box and offer some savoury options as well. Here are some ideas:

• Candied bacon
• Sweetbreads
• Raisin bread, date bread, banana bread, or other sweet quick breads
• Nuts

Remember to cut your dippers into bite-sized pieces ahead of time, so your guests can easily pop them into their mouths. And don't forget to provide plenty of fondue forks or skewers for everyone!

How to make chocolate fondue

Making chocolate fondue is simple and fun! It's a great way to make dessert more interactive and get creative with your favourite treats. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make chocolate fondue:

Ingredients:

• Heavy/whipping cream
• Milk (optional)
• Chocolate (chips or chopped bars)
• Vanilla extract (optional)
• Salt (a pinch)
• Cinnamon (optional)
• Your choice of dippers (see below for ideas)

Method:

• Prepare your ingredients: If using a chocolate bar, chop it into small pieces. Prepare your chosen dippers by cutting fruit into bite-sized pieces and drying them thoroughly after washing. For other dippers, arrange them on a platter or divide them onto two platters for easier access.
• Heat the dairy: In a small saucepan, gently heat the cream and milk (if using) over medium-low heat until it just starts to gently simmer.
• Add the chocolate: Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the chocolate. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to start melting, then stir until smooth. You can also add a pinch of salt at this stage.
• Add extra flavours (optional): If you want to add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a couple of tablespoons of liqueur, do so now and stir well. You can also add a teaspoon of cinnamon for a Mexican hot chocolate twist.
• Transfer to a fondue pot: Pour the chocolate mixture into a fondue pot and light the fuel to keep it warm. If you don't have a fondue pot, you can use a regular pot placed on a trivet or oven mitt, or transfer the mixture to a small slow cooker or ceramic bowl.
• Dip and enjoy: Use fondue forks, skewers, or bamboo skewers to dip your chosen treats into the chocolate. If the fondue starts to stiffen, add a tablespoon of cream and stir.

Dippers:

The options for dippers are endless! Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Fruit: Strawberries, bananas, pineapple, orange segments, apples, pears, dried apricots, etc.
• Cookies and sweets: Pound cake, brownies, marshmallows, rice krispie treats, doughnuts, wafers, meringues, etc.
• Savoury options: Pretzels, potato chips, crispy bacon, Ritz crackers, Cheetos, etc.
• Garnishes: Flaky salt, shredded coconut, crushed nuts, Pop Rocks, crushed freeze-dried fruit, etc.

Get creative and enjoy your chocolate fondue feast!

How to reheat chocolate fondue

Chocolate fondue is a simple yet decadent dessert that is perfect for sharing. But what do you do when you have leftovers? Here is a guide on how to reheat chocolate fondue to achieve that smooth, creamy texture and retain its original taste.

Using a Double Boiler:

The double boiler method is the best way to reheat chocolate fondue as it provides control over the temperature and reheating time. This method helps maintain the creamy texture and flavour of the fondue. Here's what you do:

• Find a double boiler, which consists of two pots. The first is a large saucepan, and the second is a shallower saucepan that can sit inside the larger one. If you don't have a double boiler, you can use a stainless steel or glass bowl placed on top of a saucepan.
• Add a small amount of water to the larger saucepan and place it on a stove at medium heat.
• Once the water starts to simmer, place the smaller saucepan or glass bowl on top and add your fondue.
• Stir the fondue intermittently, ensuring it doesn't stick to the bottom. Add a few drops of liquid (water, milk, or cream) if needed.
• Keep the fondue over the simmering water until it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency.
• Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy!

Stovetop Reheating:

This method is suitable for reheating fondue, but it requires more attention to prevent overheating or burning. Here's how:

• Place a non-stick pan on a stove over medium heat.
• Add a small amount of butter, milk, or cream to the pan and let it heat up.
• Once the milk or cream is warm, add the leftover fondue to the pan and stir continuously.
• Reduce the flame to low once the fondue starts to boil. Keep stirring to prevent overheating and burning.
• Once the fondue is smooth and creamy, transfer it to a ceramic bowl and serve immediately.

Microwave Reheating:

The microwave method is the fastest way to reheat chocolate fondue, but it requires careful monitoring to avoid overheating. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Place the leftover fondue in a microwave-safe bowl or container.
• If the fondue is too thick, add a small amount of milk or cream to thin it out.
• Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent drying.
• Microwave the fondue in short bursts of 15-30 seconds, stirring after each interval to ensure even heating.
• Continue reheating until the fondue reaches the desired temperature and consistency.
• Enjoy your warm, smooth chocolate fondue!

Tips for Reheating Chocolate Fondue:

• Avoid reheating fondue multiple times, as this can cause the chocolate to burn or separate.
• If using the stovetop method, be sure to use a non-stick pan to prevent sticking and burning.
• When reheating in the microwave, start with shorter intervals and increase the time as needed to prevent overheating.
• Always stir the fondue during reheating to ensure even heating and a smooth consistency.
• If reheating a large quantity of fondue, divide it into smaller portions before chilling, as it will be easier to reheat.

How to keep chocolate fondue warm

While a fondue pot is ideal for keeping chocolate fondue warm, there are several other ways to achieve this. Here are some methods to ensure your chocolate fondue stays warm and enjoyable:

Using a Heat Source

• Tea candle: If you don't have a fondue pot, a tea candle is a good alternative. It produces less heat than canned Sterno fuel, so it's safer and reduces the risk of burning.
• Sterno fuel: You can use canned Sterno fuel, but be cautious as it burns very hot. Keep an eye on it, and turn it off or partially cover the can with the lid if it gets too hot.
• Crockpot: A small crockpot or slow cooker is an excellent option for keeping your fondue warm. It doesn't require a flame and is easy to adjust.
• Stovetop: You can keep your fondue warm by placing it on a heating pad or over a pot of very hot, just-boiled water.
• Fondue pot: Metal, ceramic, and electric fondue pots are available. Metal pots are sturdy and can go directly from stovetop to table. Ceramic pots hold heat well and are easy to clean. Electric pots are safer, heat up quickly, and are easy to adjust but are more expensive.

Adding Ingredients

• Dairy: Adding a small amount of dairy, such as cream or milk, to your fondue can help keep it in a liquid state. If your fondue starts to stiffen, simply stir in some additional cream.
• Oil: Adding a neutral-tasting oil, such as canola or vegetable oil, can help prevent the chocolate from scorching and maintain its liquid form.
• Chocolate type: Using a premium chocolate with at least 60% cacao will result in a deeper chocolate flavor and a smoother fondue.

Frequently asked questions