Saving Chocolate Fondue: Tips For Perfect Preservation

Chocolate fondue is a fun and easy dessert to make, and it can be made in advance and stored for later. It is a great way to make dessert more interactive, with everyone choosing their favourite treats to dip into the chocolate sauce. The sauce itself is simple to make, with most recipes requiring only chocolate, cream, and a pinch of salt. However, it is important to note that the type of chocolate used is crucial, as not all brands of chocolate chips melt well. The better the quality of chocolate, the better the fondue will taste.

Use a fondue pot, crockpot, or tea candle to keep the chocolate warm

Using a fondue pot, crockpot, or tea candle is a great way to keep your chocolate fondue warm and ready to eat. Here are some tips for each method:

Fondue Pot

If you have a fondue pot, you're already one step ahead! Fondue pots are designed to keep your chocolate at the perfect temperature while you dip. There are three main types of fondue pots: metal, ceramic, and electric. Metal fondue pots are sturdy and can go directly from the stovetop to your table. They are usually made of stainless steel or enameled cast iron and tend to be a bit heavy and larger than other options. Ceramic fondue pots are great at retaining heat and are easy to clean. They come in a variety of sizes and some models can be heated on the stovetop or in the microwave. Electric fondue pots are the safest and fastest-heating option, but they are also the most expensive and require an outlet nearby.

Crockpot

If you don't have a fondue pot, a small crockpot can also keep your chocolate fondue warm. Simply prepare your fondue on the stovetop and then transfer it to the crockpot to keep it at a consistent temperature while you enjoy dipping.

Tea Candle

For a more affordable and portable option, you can use a tea candle to keep your chocolate fondue warm. Place your fondue pot on a trivet or heat-resistant surface and light a tea candle underneath. This method may not keep your fondue as hot as a fondue pot or crockpot, but it's a great option if you don't have access to an outlet or stove. Just be sure to keep an eye on the flame and add more cream to the fondue if it starts to get too hot.

No matter which method you choose, always be careful when handling hot pots and candles, and enjoy your delicious chocolate fondue!

Use high-quality chocolate bars, not chocolate chips

When making chocolate fondue, it's important to use high-quality chocolate bars instead of chocolate chips. This is because the chocolate you use as your base is crucial to the overall taste and texture of the fondue.

Chocolate chips often don't melt as well as chocolate bars, and they can affect the consistency of the fondue, making it harden more quickly. Chocolate chips also tend to have a different flavour profile and are not pure chocolate, which is essential for achieving the right taste and texture in a fondue.

When selecting chocolate bars, opt for brands known for their high quality, such as Ghirardelli, Guittard, or Baker's. These brands are widely available in most grocery stores and will ensure that your fondue has a rich, smooth, and glossy texture.

Additionally, consider using a combination of different chocolates, such as milk chocolate, dark chocolate, and white chocolate, to create a deeper, richer flavour. This will result in a fondue that is shiny, dark, creamy, and not too sweet or bitter—a perfect balance of flavours.

Remember, the better the quality of chocolate you use, the better your fondue will turn out. So, splurge on some high-quality chocolate bars and enjoy the delicious results!

Add flavour with extracts, liquors, or aromatics

Chocolate fondue is a versatile dessert that can be customised with a variety of ingredients to elevate its flavour profile. Here are some ways to add flavour to your chocolate fondue using extracts, liquors, or aromatics:

Extracts

Vanilla extract is a classic addition to chocolate fondue, enhancing the sweetness and depth of the chocolate. However, you can also experiment with other extracts such as orange extract or peppermint extract for a refreshing twist. A small amount of mint extract can provide a subtle cooling sensation, especially when paired with white chocolate. If you're feeling adventurous, rose water can add an elegant and unique floral note to your fondue.

Liquors

For an adult-only gathering, introducing liquors to your chocolate fondue can be a fun and indulgent twist. Liqueurs such as Grand Marnier (orange liqueur) or Amaretto (with notes of almond and cherry) can be stirred into the fondue for a sophisticated flavour boost. If you're feeling particularly creative, try Frangelico, Cointreau, or Chambord for unique flavour profiles that will impress your guests.

Aromatics

Steeping aromatics in the cream before mixing it with chocolate can add subtle yet intriguing flavours to your fondue. For a stylish and contemporary touch, try steeping a bruised lemongrass stalk in the cream for white chocolate fondue or using a bag of Earl Grey tea for dark chocolate fondue. This technique allows you to infuse your fondue with delicate flavours that complement the chocolate without overwhelming it.

Prepare dippers in advance

Preparing your dippers in advance is a great way to save time and effort when it comes to serving chocolate fondue. Here are some tips and suggestions to make the process easier:

Choose Your Dippers:

Firstly, select a variety of items that will complement the chocolate fondue. Popular options include fresh fruit, such as strawberries, bananas, pineapple, and dried apricots. You can also consider other sweet treats like brownies, pound cake, marshmallows, ladyfingers, cookies, and Rice Krispies treats.

Prepare the Fruit:

Wash and dry the fruit thoroughly. You can cut the fruit into bite-sized pieces or leave them whole, depending on the type of fruit. For example, strawberries can be left whole, while bananas are best cut into 1-inch chunks. If you're using apples, consider slicing them and sprinkling them with a bit of lemon juice to prevent browning.

Prepare the Sweet Treats:

If you're using items like brownies, cake, or cookies, cut them into bite-sized pieces or cubes. You can also use store-bought treats like Oreos, Nutter Butters, or Pirouette cookies. If you're making homemade treats, such as brownies or cookies, prepare them in advance and let them cool completely before cutting them into dipper-sized portions.

Skewers or Forks:

Provide your guests with skewers or fondue forks to use for dipping. If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 20 minutes before use to prevent them from burning if they come into contact with the fondue candle or burner. You can also use bamboo skewers, seafood forks, or salad forks.

Plating and Presentation:

Arrange the prepared dippers attractively on platters or plates around the chocolate fondue pot. You can group similar items together or create a colourful display by mixing different dippers. If using skewers, you can pre-skewer the dippers or leave them separate, allowing your guests to create their own custom combinations.

Preparing your dippers in advance will not only save you time but will also ensure a seamless and enjoyable chocolate fondue experience for you and your guests.

Re-warm fondue gently in the microwave or over a pot of simmering water

If you have leftover chocolate fondue, it can be easily reheated and revived. Warming up fondue in the microwave or over a pot of simmering water gives you more control over the consistency of the fondue.

To reheat fondue in the microwave, transfer the desired amount of fondue into a microwave-safe bowl. Avoid using metallic utensils or containers. Microwave the fondue at medium power for short intervals of around 30 seconds each. After each interval, remove the fondue from the microwave and stir thoroughly before returning it for another round. Repeat this process until the fondue is evenly heated.

Alternatively, to reheat fondue over a pot of simmering water, fill a pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Put the leftover fondue in a heatproof bowl and place it over the pot of simmering water. Warm the fondue gently until it reaches your desired consistency.

It's important to reheat fondue gently and gradually to avoid scorching or clumping. You can add a small amount of cream to loosen up the fondue if needed.

Frequently asked questions