Thursday, January 13, 2011

Make The Chocolate For A Fountain Ahead Of Time

Chocolate fountains add a delectable touch to any party---free flowing chocolate accompanied by a selection of strawberries, cakes and marshmallows for dipping is sure to be a hit with your guests. But you may not have time the day of the party to prepare the chocolate for the fountain, so use this recipe to make the chocolate mixture in advance.


Instructions


1. Place the chocolate in a plastic bag and seal the bag, squeezing out all of the air. Use the mallet to break the chocolate into small chunks so that it melts more quickly. Empty the baggie into a heatproof bowl.


2. Fill a saucepan halfway with water. Place the bowl on top of the saucepan, then remove the bowl and check to see if the bottom of the bowl is wet. If the water is too high, pour some out because it is important that the water does not touch the bowl. Set the pan on high heat until the water boils. Reduce the heat to medium to keep the water simmering. Place the bowl of chocolate on top of the pot.








3. Stir the chocolate as it begins to melt, gradually adding the heavy cream. Stir in the vanilla and Grand Marnier or Frangelica, and continue mixing until the chocolate is completely melted. Carefully remove the bowl from the heat, using a dishtowel or oven mitts because the bowl will be very hot.


4. Leave the chocolate in the bowl and allow it to cool completely. Cover the bowl and store it in the refrigerator until the day of the party. To reheat, remove the chocolate from the refrigerator and let it sit in room temperature for a few hours. Boil water again in a saucepan, reduce the heat to medium, and set the bowl of chocolate over the pot of water. Stir the chocolate until it melts, and then pour it into the chocolate fountain.

Tags: bowl chocolate, chocolate fountain, heat medium, Place bowl, remove bowl, Stir chocolate