Chocolate Fondue: Uk's Favourite Dips For A Sweet Treat

Chocolate fondue is a fun and interactive dessert that's perfect for any occasion, from romantic dinners to gatherings with friends or family. The key to a successful fondue is creativity and variety, so feel free to experiment with different dippers and get creative! Here are some ideas to get you started:

- Fruits: Strawberries, bananas, oranges, pineapple, apples, grapes, and dried fruits like apricots.

- Pastries: Waffles, pancakes, churros, doughnuts, croissants, and marshmallows.

- Biscuits and Cookies: Oreos, shortbread, digestives, ladyfingers, and pirouettes.

- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, and macadamias.

- Savouries: Pretzels, potato crisps, and bacon strips.

- Cakes and Sweets: Pound cake, sponge cake, brownies, fudge, and Rice Krispies treats.

Fresh fruit: strawberries, bananas, pineapple, apples, pears, etc

Fresh fruit is a fantastic option for chocolate fondue, offering a healthy yet indulgent treat. Strawberries are a classic choice for fondue, as their sweet and tangy flavour complements the richness of the chocolate perfectly. However, there are plenty of other fruits that work well too. Bananas, for example, have a creamy texture and subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with chocolate. Tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and papaya also work well, adding a burst of juicy sweetness to each bite.

Apples are another excellent option for chocolate fondue. Their crispness and mild sweetness make them a wonderful choice for dipping in chocolate. You can also try dipping apple slices in the fondue for a slightly different texture and flavour. Pears are another great option, offering a soft and juicy contrast to the thick, rich chocolate.

If you're feeling adventurous, you could also try dipping other fruits such as oranges, kiwis, grapes, cherries, or even dried fruits like apricots, mango, or papaya. The slightly tart and juicy nature of these fruits can help to balance the sweetness and richness of the chocolate, creating a delightful tasting experience.

When preparing fruit for chocolate fondue, be sure to wash the fruits thoroughly and cut them into bite-sized pieces before serving. This will make it easier for your guests to dip and enjoy the delicious combination of fresh fruit and melted chocolate.

Pastries: waffles, pancakes, churros, doughnuts, etc

When it comes to choosing what to dip in your chocolate fondue, the possibilities are endless! Here are some mouth-watering ideas to get you started, focusing on pastries:

Waffles

Waffles are a perfect choice for chocolate fondue as their nooks and crannies provide ample space for the chocolate to pool and solidify. Cut them into bite-sized pieces to make them easier to dip and ensure every bite is packed with flavour.

Pancakes

Pancakes are another excellent option, offering a soft and fluffy base for your chocolate fondue. Stack them up and cut them into strips or small triangles for easy dipping. You could even make mini pancakes to use as dippers!

Churros

Churros and chocolate are a match made in heaven, so why not take it to the next level by dipping churros into a warm and gooey chocolate fondue? The crispiness of the churros will contrast beautifully with the smoothness of the chocolate.

Doughnuts

Doughnuts are a delicious and indulgent choice for chocolate fondue. Go for a simple ring doughnut or opt for something filled or frosted for an extra special treat. Just be sure to cut them into bite-sized pieces to make dipping easier!

Croissants

For something a little different, try dipping croissants into your chocolate fondue. The flaky pastry and buttery flavour will pair perfectly with the chocolate, creating a decadent and indulgent treat.

Experiment and Enjoy!

Remember, the key to a successful chocolate fondue is creativity, so don't be afraid to experiment with different types of pastries and combinations of dippers. Enjoy the process of discovering new flavour pairings and creating a unique and memorable experience for you and your guests!

Biscuits and cookies: Oreos, shortbread, digestives, etc

Chocolate fondue is a great way to elevate a simple dessert into a fun, interactive experience. While there are many things you can dip into a chocolate fondue, biscuits and cookies are a popular choice. Here are some ideas for what types of biscuits and cookies to dip into your chocolate fondue:

Oreos

Oreos are a classic cookie choice for chocolate fondue. These chocolate sandwich cookies with a sweet cream filling are a favourite for dipping. The chocolate fondue adds an extra layer of chocolatey goodness to each bite.

Shortbread

Shortbread cookies are a traditional choice for chocolate fondue. They have a buttery, crumbly texture that pairs perfectly with the smooth, rich chocolate. Shortbread is a versatile choice that can be easily found in stores or baked at home.

Digestives

Digestive biscuits are a great option for chocolate fondue. Their slightly sweet, wholemeal flavour and crunchy texture make them perfect for dipping. They are a sturdy choice that can withstand the weight of the chocolate without breaking.

Gingerbread

For a festive twist, consider dipping gingerbread cookies into your chocolate fondue. The spicy, sweet flavour of gingerbread creates an interesting contrast with the chocolate. Gingerbread men or women will be sure to bring a smile to your face as you dip them into the chocolate.

Vanilla Wafers

Vanilla wafers, with their light and crispy texture, are another excellent choice for chocolate fondue. The vanilla flavour complements the chocolate, and their size makes them perfect for dipping.

Biscotti

Biscotti, the Italian twice-baked biscuit, is a unique choice for chocolate fondue. Their crunchy texture and variety of flavours (such as almond or chocolate chip) make them a delightful dipping option.

Ladyfingers

Ladyfingers, or sponge finger biscuits, are a delicate and airy choice for dipping into chocolate fondue. They are often used in tiramisu, but they are also perfect for soaking up the chocolate fondue and providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience.

Nutter Butters

Nutter Butters are peanut butter sandwich cookies that can add a delicious twist to your chocolate fondue. The combination of peanut butter and chocolate is a classic for a reason!

Homemade Cookies

Of course, you can't go wrong with homemade cookies. Whether they're chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, or sugar cookies, dipping your own freshly baked creations into the chocolate fondue will surely elevate your dessert experience.

Nuts and seeds: almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, etc

Nuts and seeds are a fantastic option for chocolate fondue, offering a variety of textures and flavours to elevate your dipping experience. Here are some ideas and tips to get you started:

Almonds:

Almonds are a classic choice for chocolate fondue. They provide a satisfying crunch and pair beautifully with the sweetness of the chocolate. You can use raw or roasted almonds, but if you're feeling adventurous, try toasting them beforehand to enhance their flavour. Toasting brings out their nutty aroma and gives them a deeper, richer taste.

Hazelnuts:

Hazelnuts, with their distinct flavour and crunchy texture, are another excellent option for chocolate fondue. Their rich, buttery taste complements the chocolate wonderfully. If using whole hazelnuts, consider toasting them lightly to enhance their flavour and make them easier to bite into. You can also use chopped hazelnuts to make dipping easier and create a greater surface area for the chocolate to cling to.

Walnuts:

Walnuts offer a unique flavour and texture that can take your chocolate fondue to the next level. Their earthy, slightly bitter taste provides an intriguing contrast to the sweetness of the chocolate. To enhance the experience, lightly toast the walnuts to bring out their flavour and make them more crisp. As with other nuts, chopping them into smaller pieces can make dipping easier and ensure each bite is packed with flavour.

Other Nuts and Seeds:

While almonds, hazelnuts, and walnuts are popular choices, feel free to experiment with other nuts and seeds. Macadamia nuts, for example, are known for their creamy texture and sweet flavour, making them a luxurious pairing with chocolate fondue. You could also try pecans, which have a rich, buttery taste, or pistachios, which offer a unique flavour and a vibrant pop of colour. Sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, and sesame seeds are other options that can add crunch and variety to your fondue spread.

Preparation and Presentation:

When preparing nuts and seeds for chocolate fondue, it's essential to ensure they are fresh and of good quality. Stale nuts and seeds can have a rancid taste that will detract from your fondue experience. Consider toasting or roasting them to enhance their flavour and texture, but be careful not to burn them. You can present the nuts and seeds in small bowls or arrange them attractively on a platter, providing small tongs or skewers for dipping.

Dipping Tips:

When dipping nuts and seeds into the chocolate fondue, take your time and be generous with the coating. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off briefly before placing the coated nut or seed on a plate. You can also provide a variety of toppings, such as coconut flakes, crushed cookies, or sprinkles, for guests to roll their creations in before the chocolate sets.

Remember, the beauty of chocolate fondue is in its customisation and creativity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different nuts and seeds, and feel free to mix and match to discover your favourite combinations. Happy dipping!

Savouries: pretzels, crisps, bacon strips, etc

When it comes to savoury foods to dip in chocolate fondue, pretzels are a great option. The crunchy texture of pretzel rods, in particular, can handle the pressure of chocolate fondue without breaking.

Similarly, crisps are a fantastic choice for dipping in chocolate fondue. Go for sturdy, wavy crisps that can withstand the weight of the chocolate without snapping.

If you're a fan of salty-meets-sweet flavour combinations, then candied bacon dipped in chocolate is a perfect choice.

Other savoury options include crackers, such as graham crackers or digestive biscuits, which can be broken into smaller pieces for bite-sized treats.

So, there you have it! A selection of savoury foods that will complement the sweetness of the chocolate fondue and create a delightful tasting experience.

Frequently asked questions