Winter is the season for cozying up with a pot of melted chocolate, and there’s no better time to break out your fondue pot than for New Year’s Eve or Valentine’s Day. Not only does it make for a fun and romantic experience, but fondue brings people together for playful moments like “You have chocolate on your face!” or “Can you pass me another marshmallow?”
Chocolate fondue can seem fancy or intimidating, but trust us, it’s incredibly easy and perfect for anyone to make at home. If you’re wondering how to get started, we’ve got a simple recipe that requires just two ingredients: chocolate and heavy cream. Whether you have a fondue pot or not, it’s easy to whip up a batch and dive into a sea of chocolatey goodness. Here’s how to make it and a roundup of the best things to dip in that luscious chocolate fountain.
How to Make Chocolate Fondue
Making chocolate fondue at home is simpler than you might think. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup finely chopped high-quality chocolate (dark, milk, or white)
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- 1 pinch salt (add more to taste)
Instructions:
- Place your chopped chocolate in a serving vessel—this could be a fondue pot, saucepan, or bowl.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the heavy cream over medium heat. Stir occasionally and bring it to a gentle simmer. It should take about 3 minutes until you see tiny bubbles around the edges.
- Pour the hot cream over the chocolate and let it sit for 30 seconds. Then, whisk until the chocolate is smooth and fully melted.
- If needed, keep the fondue warm over a low heat and get ready to dip everything in sight!
Best Things to Dip in Chocolate Fondue
1. Pound Cake
A classic fondue dipper, pound cake is simple and delicious. You can either use store-bought pound cake or make your own. Cut it into 2-inch cubes, spear them with fondue forks, and dip them into the gooey chocolate.
2. Fresh or Dried Fruit
Fruit pairs beautifully with chocolate, and it’s a great way to balance sweetness with a fresh burst of flavor. Try strawberries, blackberries, or raspberries. You could also mix things up with tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and papaya. These fruits add a juicy twist to the rich chocolate.
3. Shortbread Cookies
Buttery, crispy shortbread is a fantastic choice to dip in chocolate fondue. They’re light yet sturdy, making them perfect for dunking. Whether store-bought or homemade, shortbread adds a delightful crunch to every bite.
4. Pretzels & Potato Chips
For a savory twist, try dipping pretzels or potato chips into your fondue. The salty crunch pairs perfectly with the velvety sweetness of the chocolate. Go for pretzel rods or wavy potato chips for added durability during dipping.
5. Marshmallows
Marshmallows and chocolate fondue are a match made in heaven. You can dip jumbo marshmallows straight into the chocolate, or go one step further and make s’mores by sandwiching the marshmallow between graham crackers.
6. Candied Bacon
If you love the combination of salty and sweet, candied bacon dipped in chocolate will be a game-changer. The crispy bacon’s smoky flavor contrasts wonderfully with the smooth chocolate, creating a unique and indulgent treat.
7. Graham Crackers
Graham crackers are another perfect choice for chocolate fondue. You can use plain or honey-flavored graham crackers, or even ones with a bit of cinnamon for an extra touch of spice. Break them into small pieces for easy dipping.
8. Rice Krispies Treats
Make your own Rice Krispies Treats, then cut them into small squares for dipping. The chewy texture and light sweetness of these treats make them an excellent pairing with the creamy chocolate.
9. Sliced Cheesecake
For a decadent option, try dipping slices or cubes of cheesecake into the chocolate. The creamy, rich cheesecake and smooth fondue create a dessert experience that’s hard to beat.
Fondue is a fun and interactive way to indulge in chocolate while enjoying sweet and savory treats. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a cozy night in, there’s no shortage of things to dip into your fondue. From fruit and pound cake to pretzels and even candied bacon, there’s a perfect dipper for everyone.
