Chocolate Fondue: Whipping Cream Magic In 3 Steps

Chocolate fondue is a fun and easy dessert to make at home. It's a great way to get creative with different dippers and add-ins, and it's perfect for any occasion, whether you're having a romantic dinner for two or entertaining a crowd. Making chocolate fondue is simple and only requires a few basic ingredients: chocolate, cream, and a pinch of salt. You can use a combination of milk chocolate, semi-sweet or dark chocolate, and even add in some white chocolate for a creamier flavour. The key to a good fondue is using high-quality chocolate and heating it slowly over low heat to prevent scorching. You can make fondue on the stovetop or in a crockpot/slow cooker, and keep it warm in a fondue pot, small crockpot, or even a tea light holder. So, gather your favourite dippers and get ready to dip away!

Choosing the right chocolate

When melting the chocolate, it is crucial to use low heat and stir occasionally to prevent the fondue from scorching and turning grainy. Do not let the mixture come to a simmer or boil. The desired consistency is thick, glossy, and smooth. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can adjust it by whisking in additional cream or milk gradually until you achieve the desired texture.

Additionally, it is worth mentioning that chocolate bars are preferable to chocolate chips as they melt better and do not harden as quickly. Opting for higher-quality chocolate will also enhance the flavour and texture of your fondue.

Heating the cream

To heat the cream, pour it into a small saucepan and place it on the stove over medium heat. Heat the cream until it is warm and steaming. You can also use a double boiler if you have one. If you are using a microwave, heat the cream in a heat-proof bowl in 30-second increments until it is warm.

Once the cream is heated, you can add the chocolate. It is important to use good-quality chocolate that melts well. Chopped chocolate or chocolate chips can be used, but avoid using chocolate chips that are ashy or of poor quality. The type of chocolate you use will depend on your preference, but options include milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, dark chocolate, or white chocolate. You can also add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavour.

When adding the chocolate to the heated cream, reduce the heat to medium-low and constantly stir until the chocolate has completely melted and the mixture is smooth. If you are using a microwave, add the chocolate to the warm cream and heat in 30-second increments, stirring in between, until the chocolate has melted.

If you are making a large batch of fondue, you may need to adjust the amount of cream and milk used. Additionally, if you want a thinner consistency, you can add more cream or milk to the mixture. However, it is easier to make the fondue thinner than thicker, so it is recommended to start with a thicker consistency and adjust as needed.

Melting the chocolate

To melt the chocolate, combine it with milk or cream in a saucepan or stovetop-proof fondue pot. Place the pot over low heat and stir occasionally until the chocolate is completely melted. It's crucial not to let the fondue come to a simmer or boil, as it can scorch and turn grainy. You'll know the chocolate is ready when it's glossy, thick, and smooth. Once it's melted, you can stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract for extra flavour.

If your fondue is too thick, you can adjust the consistency by whisking in additional cream or milk until you achieve the desired consistency. It's much easier to make the fondue thinner than thicker, so it's better to start with a thicker consistency and gradually thin it out.

Adding flavourings

Extracts

Vanilla, orange, and peppermint extracts are all popular choices for adding a subtle flavour to your fondue. You can also experiment with other extracts, such as almond, lemon, or raspberry, to find a combination that suits your taste. Start with a small amount and add more to taste, as extracts can be quite potent.

Spices

Cinnamon, ancho chile pepper, and espresso powder are great additions to chocolate fondue, especially if you're looking for a more complex and spicy flavour profile. Chilli flakes or cayenne pepper can also be added for a touch of heat.

Alcohol

For an adult twist, try adding a splash of your favourite liqueur to the fondue. Amaretto, Bailey's Irish Cream, and Grand Marnier are all excellent choices, but you can experiment with other liqueurs or even rum or whiskey. Just be sure to add the alcohol off the heat, as cooking it can cause it to evaporate.

Fruit

Fresh or dried fruit purees can add a natural sweetness and flavour to your fondue. Try raspberry, strawberry, or apricot purees for a summery twist, or go for something more exotic like mango or passionfruit. You can also steep aromatics in the cream before adding it to the chocolate—a bruised lemongrass stalk for white chocolate or an Earl Grey tea bag for dark chocolate are sophisticated and contemporary choices.

Nuts

Toasted and chopped nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pistachios can be added to the fondue for a crunchy texture and nutty flavour. You can also use nut butter, such as peanut butter or almond butter, for a more subtle flavour and smoother texture.

Candy

Melting candy bars, such as Toberlone or Symphony bars, into your fondue can add a fun and unexpected flavour. Look for candy bars with nuts, toffee bits, or other mix-ins for even more flavour and texture.

Dippers

When it comes to dippers for your chocolate fondue, the options are endless! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Fruits

Chocolate-covered fruits are a classic for a reason. Try strawberries, bananas, pineapple, apples, oranges, kiwi, dragon fruit, papaya, mango, or dried fruits such as apricots, mango, and raisins.

Cookies and Biscuits

Oreos, vanilla wafers, biscotti, shortbread, peanut butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, chocolate sandwich cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies, ginger snaps, and even fortune cookies are all great options.

Cakes and Breads

Angel food cake, pound cake, sponge cake, carrot cake, red velvet cake, chocolate cake, fruit cake, wedding cake, and cheesecake cubes are perfect for dipping. If you're feeling extra indulgent, try doughnuts, brownies, or cupcakes!

Sweet Treats

Marshmallows, rice crispy treats, pretzels, honeycomb, popcorn (sweet, salty, or caramel), fudge, mini pancakes, and waffles will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Savoury Options

For a savoury twist, try dipping potato chips or even a mix of sweet and salty options!

Frequently asked questions