Chocolate fondue is an ideal dessert for parties, date nights, or family gatherings. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients and minimal effort. You can personalize it with your favorite dippers, from strawberries to pretzels, and the warm, velvety chocolate adds a comforting, indulgent touch to any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to get everyone involved around the table.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
Heavy cream
Vanilla extract (optional)
A pinch of salt
Suggested Dippers:
Fresh strawberries, bananas, and apple slices
Marshmallows
Pound cake or angel food cake cubes
Pretzels
Biscotti or cookies
Directions
In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream until it begins to steam but doesn’t boil.
Add the chopped chocolate and stir gently until fully melted and smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, if using, and mix until well combined.
Transfer the chocolate mixture to a fondue pot or heatproof bowl to keep warm.
Arrange your dippers around the fondue and enjoy immediately.
Servings and timing
This chocolate fondue recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes about 10 minutes to prepare from start to finish.
Variations
Milk Chocolate Fondue: Use milk chocolate instead of dark or semi-sweet for a sweeter version.
Vegan Fondue: Substitute dairy-free chocolate and use coconut cream or another plant-based cream.
Liqueur Infusion: Add a splash of flavored liqueur such as Grand Marnier, Amaretto, or Bailey’s for an adult twist.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter or hazelnut spread for extra richness.
Spiced Fondue: Add a pinch of cinnamon or chili powder for a unique flavor kick.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave in 15- to 20-second intervals, stirring between each session until smooth.
FAQs
What type of chocolate is best for fondue?
High-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best due to its rich flavor and smooth melting quality.
Can I use chocolate chips for fondue?
Yes, chocolate chips are convenient and melt well, but using chopped chocolate from a bar often gives a smoother finish.
How do I keep the chocolate fondue warm?
A fondue pot with a tea light or low-heat setting is ideal. You can also use a small slow cooker or reheat gently as needed.
Can I make chocolate fondue ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead and gently reheat before serving. Be sure to stir well to restore the smooth texture.
What fruits go best with chocolate fondue?
Strawberries, bananas, apples, and pineapple are popular choices. Choose firm fruits that hold up well when dipped.
Is chocolate fondue gluten-free?
The fondue itself typically is, but always check your chocolate label. Be mindful of dippers if avoiding gluten.
Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the fondue will be thinner. For a richer texture, stick with heavy cream or at least whole milk.
What should I do if my chocolate fondue is too thick?
Add a little more warm cream, one tablespoon at a time, stirring until the desired consistency is reached.
How do I prevent the chocolate from burning?
Melt it slowly over low heat and stir constantly. Avoid high temperatures and never leave it unattended.
Can I make this without a fondue pot?
Absolutely. Use a heatproof bowl over a small saucepan of warm water or a slow cooker to keep the chocolate melted.
Conclusion
Chocolate fondue is a timeless dessert that brings people together around the joy of dipping and sharing. With its simplicity, flexibility, and rich taste, it’s the perfect sweet finish for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a celebration or enjoying a cozy night in, chocolate fondue never fails to impress.
Chocolate fondue is a rich, warm dessert made by melting chocolate with cream, ideal for dipping fruits, cakes, and more. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for gatherings.
Author:Catherine
Prep Time:5 minutes
Cook Time:5 minutes
Total Time:10 minutes
Yield:Serves 4 to 6
Category:Dessert
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Swiss
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
1 cup heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
A pinch of salt
Instructions
In a medium saucepan over low heat, warm the heavy cream until it begins to steam but does not boil.
Add the chopped chocolate and stir gently until fully melted and smooth.
Stir in the vanilla extract and salt, if using, and mix until well combined.
Transfer the chocolate mixture to a fondue pot or heatproof bowl to keep warm.
Arrange your dippers around the fondue and enjoy immediately.
Notes
Use high-quality chocolate for the best flavor and texture.Customize with your favorite dippers such as fruits, marshmallows, or cake cubes.To thin the fondue, add more warm cream gradually.Reheat gently to avoid burning the chocolate.Can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
