Chocolate Fondue: Carnation Evaporated Milk Magic

Chocolate fondue is a fun and easy dessert to make. It can be made with a variety of ingredients, including chocolate, cream, milk, and a pinch of salt. You can also add extra flavors such as peppermint extract, cinnamon, chili, or liquor. While a fondue pot is ideal for keeping the chocolate warm, it can also be made in a saucepan on the stove. Carnation evaporated milk can be used as a substitute for cream or milk in chocolate fondue recipes. Simply combine the evaporated milk, chocolate, and any desired add-ins in a saucepan or fondue pot and heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the chocolate is melted. Serve with your favorite dippers such as fruit, cookies, or marshmallows.

Melting the chocolate

Melting chocolate is a delicate process, and it's important to do it slowly and carefully to achieve the best results. Here's a step-by-step guide to melting the chocolate for your fondue:

Preparing the Chocolate

Start by choosing the right chocolate. Good-quality chocolate chips or chopped chocolate bars are ideal. Ghirardelli or Guittard bittersweet or semisweet chips are excellent choices, as they melt well and have a rich flavour. If you can't find these brands, opt for chocolate baking bars, which are widely available in the baking aisle. Avoid using low-quality chocolate chips, as they may not melt properly and can affect the taste of your fondue.

Now, it's time to melt the chocolate! Combine your chocolate with the other ingredients, except for the vanilla extract, in a saucepan or a stovetop-proof fondue pot. Place the pot over low heat and stir occasionally. It's crucial not to let the mixture come to a simmer or boil, as this can scorch the chocolate and make it grainy. Instead, melt the chocolate gently until it's fully combined with the other ingredients.

Achieving the Right Consistency

Once the chocolate is melted, you'll want to achieve the perfect fondue consistency. The fondue should be glossy, thick, and smooth. If it seems too thick, you can add a little extra milk or cream to thin it out. Simply whisk in the additional liquid gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Adding the Final Touches

Finally, take the fondue off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. This will add a subtle flavour and aroma to your chocolate fondue. Taste the fondue and adjust the sweetness or flavour to your preference. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavour.

Your chocolate fondue is now ready to be transferred to a fondue pot or slow cooker to keep it warm while serving. Remember to prepare your dippers, such as fruit, cookies, or marshmallows, for the ultimate chocolate fondue experience!

Adding Carnation evaporated milk

Carnation evaporated milk is a versatile ingredient that can be used to create a creamy and delicious chocolate fondue. Here are some detailed instructions on how to make chocolate fondue using Carnation evaporated milk:

Ingredients:

• Carnation evaporated milk: 1/3 cup (preferably not skim milk)
• Chocolate: 10 ounces of chopped semisweet or bittersweet chocolate (good quality chocolate chips or baking bars are recommended)
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
• Optional: A pinch of salt, cinnamon, or other flavourings
• Dippers: Fresh fruits (strawberries, bananas, pineapple, etc.), marshmallows, cookies, cake cubes, etc.

Instructions:

• Combining the Ingredients: In a saucepan or a stovetop-proof fondue pot, combine the chocolate and Carnation evaporated milk. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavour. Place the pot over low heat and stir occasionally to ensure the chocolate melts smoothly without scorching.
• Melting the Chocolate: Continue heating and stirring the mixture until the chocolate is completely melted. The ideal temperature is when the mixture is glossy, thick, and smooth. Be careful not to let the fondue come to a simmer or boil, as it can affect the texture.
• Adding Carnation Evaporated Milk: If you prefer a thinner consistency for your fondue, slowly add small amounts of Carnation evaporated milk to the melted chocolate mixture. Whisk continuously until you achieve the desired consistency.
• Stirring in the Vanilla: Once you're happy with the consistency, remove the mixture from the heat. Add the vanilla extract and stir well to incorporate it into the fondue.
• Serving the Fondue: Transfer the chocolate fondue to a fondue pot or a small slow cooker to keep it warm while serving. Arrange your chosen dippers on a platter or plates around the chocolate pot. Enjoy dipping your favourite treats into the warm, decadent chocolate fondue!

Tips and Variations:

• Flavour Customization: You can experiment with different flavour extracts like orange or peppermint instead of vanilla for a unique twist.
• Dippers: The options for dippers are endless! Fresh fruits, cookies, cake cubes, marshmallows, and pretzels are all excellent choices.
• Storing and Reheating: Leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated over low heat, stirring occasionally.
• Consistency Adjustment: If your fondue becomes too thick, simply add a small amount of Carnation evaporated milk or heavy cream to thin it out.

Stirring in vanilla extract

Once you have removed the fondue from the heat, it's time to add the vanilla extract. Stir it in gently until it is fully incorporated and you have a thick, smooth mixture. This is the key to achieving that perfect, creamy texture that makes chocolate fondue so indulgent.

The amount of vanilla extract you add can vary depending on your taste preferences. Start with a small amount, such as half a teaspoon, and gradually add more until you reach the desired flavour. Too much vanilla extract can be overpowering, so it's best to add it slowly and carefully.

If you want to get creative, you can experiment with different types of vanilla extract. For example, you could try using a high-quality, pure vanilla extract, which will give a stronger, more complex flavour. Alternatively, you could use a flavoured vanilla extract, such as vanilla bean paste or vanilla powder, to add a unique twist to your fondue.

Remember, the vanilla extract is the final touch that brings all the flavours of your chocolate fondue together. So, take your time, stir it in gently, and enjoy the delicious results!

Dipping fruit and treats

Chocolate fondue is a fun and interactive dessert that's perfect for gatherings or as a special treat for the family. The best part is choosing what to dip into that warm, gooey chocolate!

When it comes to dipping fruit and treats, there are endless options to choose from. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Fresh or Dried Fruit

Fruit is a classic choice for chocolate fondue and for a good reason. The sweetness of the fruit complements the chocolate perfectly. Strawberries are a popular option and are considered a romantic treat, but you can also try bananas, pineapple, mango, kiwi, dragon fruit, papaya, or any other fruit that strikes your fancy. For a winter gathering, tropical fruits can bring a taste of warm weather to your table. If you're feeling adventurous, try dipping frozen fruit—like frozen mango, peach, or kiwi—for a refreshing twist.

Cookies and Baked Goods

Cookies and baked goods are another excellent option for chocolate fondue. Shortbread cookies, peanut butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate sandwich cookies, vanilla wafers, oatmeal raisin cookies, and even fortune cookies are all delicious choices. If you're feeling creative, you can also dip brownies, pound cake, angel food cake, sponge cake, or even cheesecake. These treats provide a delightful contrast of textures and flavours when paired with chocolate.

Sweet and Salty Treats

If you're craving a combination of sweet and salty, pretzels and potato chips are excellent choices for chocolate fondue. The salty crystals on pretzels provide a delightful contrast of flavours, and their sturdy texture can handle the weight of the chocolate without breaking. For a sweet and crunchy option, buttery shortbread cookies are a perfect choice, especially if they're already dipped in semisweet chocolate.

Marshmallows and Crackers

Marshmallows are a classic fondue choice and for a good reason. They're light and airy, making them perfect for dipping. Toasting the marshmallows before dipping adds a smoky flavour reminiscent of s'mores. For a sweet and spicy option, try dipping cinnamon-flavoured graham crackers. You can also use the graham crackers to make makeshift s'mores by sandwiching a chocolate-dipped marshmallow between them.

Cheesy Delights

While it may seem like an unusual pairing, certain types of cheese can be delicious when paired with chocolate fondue. Thin slices of Gruyere go exceptionally well with milk chocolate fondue, as the cheese's nutty flavour complements the sweetness of the chocolate. If you're feeling adventurous, try pairing a darker chocolate with a more acidic cheese for a unique flavour combination.

So, there you have it! These are just a few ideas to get you started on your chocolate fondue journey. Get creative, and don't be afraid to experiment with different fruits, treats, and chocolates to find your perfect combination. Happy dipping!

Reheating and storing

Chocolate fondue is best served warm, so you might need to reheat it if it's been sitting out for a while. Here are some tips for reheating and storing your chocolate fondue:

Reheating Your Chocolate Fondue:

• Microwave: Remove the lid from the container and microwave for 30-second intervals. Carefully remove from the microwave and gently stir the fondue after each interval. Repeat this process until the fondue is heated through and has a smooth consistency.
• Stovetop: If you don't have a microwave, you can use a double boiler. Add water to the bottom pot and place the chocolate fondue in the top section. Turn the stove to a medium-high setting until the water starts to steam. Stir the fondue intermittently to prevent it from burning. Once the water is simmering, turn down the heat and continue stirring until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.

Storing Your Chocolate Fondue:

• Make-Ahead: Chocolate fondue can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It is not recommended to freeze the fondue as it can become grainy.
• Leftovers: Leftover fondue can be stored in the refrigerator and warmed over low heat, stirring often, to reheat.
• Storage Container: Avoid storing leftover fondue in a plastic container as it may solidify into a thick puck that is difficult to remove and chop. Instead, pour the fondue onto a sheet of parchment paper and refrigerate until it hardens. Then, you can break it into pieces and store them in a zipper-lock bag in the fridge.

Frequently asked questions