Chocolate Fondue: Creative Combinations For A Sweet Treat

Chocolate fondue is a versatile dessert that can be paired with a variety of sweet and salty treats. While strawberries are a classic choice, there are many other options to explore. Here are some suggestions to elevate your chocolate fondue experience:

- Fresh or dried fruits: Try tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, papaya, or even coconut chunks for a sweet and juicy contrast to the chocolate.

- Cookies and baked goods: From vanilla wafers and Oreos to shortbread cookies, there are endless options. Buttery shortbread cookies are a popular choice and can be easily purchased or baked at home.

- Marshmallows: A classic pairing, marshmallows can be toasted or enjoyed raw. They add a smoky flavour reminiscent of s'mores.

- Pretzels and potato chips: The salty, crunchy texture of pretzels and potato chips provides a delightful contrast to the velvety sweetness of the chocolate fondue.

- Cheesecake: For a delicate and indulgent treat, dip slices or cubes of cheesecake into the chocolate fondue.

- Brownies and cakes: Sour cream brownies or a simple vanilla or pound cake can be a delicious base for the chocolate fondue.

- Churros: Warm, sugar-rolled churros dipped in chocolate fondue are a match made in heaven.

Fresh or dried fruit

When selecting fruit to dip in chocolate, it's best to avoid tiny fruits like blueberries, as these can be difficult to dip. Instead, opt for larger fruits that can be cut into bite-sized pieces or chunks. This includes fruits like apples, oranges, cherries, seedless grapes, cantaloupe, and honeydew melon. Dried fruits such as apricots, figs, dates, papaya, pineapple, and apples are also excellent choices for chocolate fondue.

Fruit provides a nice contrast of textures and flavors when paired with chocolate fondue. The sweetness of the fruit complements the richness of the chocolate, creating a delicious and indulgent treat. The key to a successful fruit and chocolate fondue pairing is to choose fruits that are fresh, in season, and firm enough to hold their shape after being dipped.

Cookies and cakes

Cookies

Cookies are a fantastic option for dipping into chocolate fondue. Oreos, vanilla wafers, and biscotti are all solid choices. For a more delicate option, try thin almond Belgian cookies. Ginger snaps, graham crackers, and Nilla wafers are also tasty options. If you're feeling adventurous, try dipping Ruffles chips or pretzels for a sweet and salty combination.

Cakes

Cakes are another popular choice for chocolate fondue. Cubes of pound cake, angel food cake, or brownies are all delicious options. For a lighter option, consider cubed-up brioche or toasted cubes of angel food cake. Rice Krispie treats are also a fun choice, especially if you add peanut butter to them. Blondies, biscotti, and ladyfingers are also great for dipping.

Crisps and biscuits

For biscuits, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Vanilla wafers, biscotti, Oreos, and shortbread are all excellent choices. For an extra indulgent treat, consider dipping biscuits that are already coated in chocolate. Alternatively, get creative and make your own biscuits from scratch.

When preparing crisps and biscuits for chocolate fondue, it is important to cut or break them into bite-sized pieces. This not only makes them easier to dip and eat, but also ensures a more elegant presentation. Additionally, consider providing small paper cups or paper boats for your guests to place their dippables in, preventing any mess.

So, whether you opt for crisps or biscuits, or perhaps a combination of both, your guests are sure to enjoy this delightful pairing of sweet and salty, crunchy and creamy.

Marshmallows and other sweets

Marshmallows are a classic fondue pairing. They are light and airy, making them perfect for dipping into chocolate fondue. You can toast the marshmallows before dipping them to add a smoky flavour reminiscent of s'mores, or you can enjoy them whole and raw.

If you're feeling creative, you can make your own marshmallows at home. It's a long process, but the results are worth it! Homemade marshmallows are softer and fluffier than store-bought ones, and they'll elevate your chocolate fondue experience.

Chocolate fondue is also a great opportunity to indulge in other sweets and candies. Try dipping pretzels, graham crackers, or cinnamon-flavoured crackers into the chocolate for a sweet and spicy combination. If you're feeling extra indulgent, try dipping cookies into the fondue. Shortbread, peanut butter cookies, chocolate chip cookies, and vanilla wafers are all excellent choices.

For a fun twist on a classic, try dipping Rice Krispie Treats into the chocolate fondue. Or, if you're feeling really adventurous, pair your chocolate fondue with certain types of cheese. Thin slices of Gruyere go well with milk chocolate, while more acidic cheeses should be paired with darker chocolate.

Cheeses and meats

Cheeses

• Gruyère
• Swiss cheese
• Gouda
• Fontina
• Comté
• Emmentaler
• Raclette
• Vacherin
• Cheddar

Meats

• Salami
• Prosciutto
• Chorizo
• Soppressata
• Sausage
• Chicken
• Steak
• Shrimp
• Bacon

Frequently asked questions