Chocolate fountains are often the highlight of the buffet tables at parties, weddings and corporate events. There are even some models available for home use. If you are planning an event with a chocolate fountain, you will need to carefully consider the best items to offer your guests for dunking in the melted chocolate.
Fruit
Many fruits pair well with chocolate. These include bananas, strawberries, pineapples and cherries. Other fruits such as oranges, kiwis, melons and raspberries may also appeal to you. When selecting fruit, keep in mind what kind of chocolate will be in the fountain (white, dark, milk, etc.) For the convenience of your guests, make sure to pre-cut the fruit and sprinkle them with lemon juice to prevent unsightly browning due to oxidation.
Carbs
There are very few carb-heavy products that do not taste better when dipped in chocolate. Artisanal bread can benefit from a quick dunk in chocolate, as can donuts, pastries and cookies. Sponge cakes, popcorn balls, waffles and muffins can also be dipped in the chocolate fountain. Experiment with these items when served at room temperature or frozen to see which is best with warm melted chocolate.
Salty Snacks
Providing salty options makes for an excellent culinary counterpoint for the many sweet treats that will be dipped in the chocolate fountain. While chocolate covered pretzels (hard and soft) and potato chips might be the most obvious choice, you could also experiment with large salted nuts, such as Brazil nuts or walnuts. If you are feeling adventurous, snacks like Doritos or Combos might also be fun to try.
Candies
Hard candies that can be used in a chocolate fountain include peppermint sticks, caramels or butterscotch, mints and other old-fashioned treats. Soft and chewy candies might include marshmallows, gummy bears and licorice ropes.
General Food Tips
Chocolate fountains can get clogged with dropped food or crumbs. To prevent this, suggest to your guests that some foods are okay to be dipped directly in the fountain, while others should have the melted chocolate ladled over them on a plate.
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