Decadent Chocolate Caramel Raspberry Fondue
Indulge in the luxurious blend of rich semi-sweet chocolate, buttery caramel, and tart raspberry preserves with this exquisite fondue recipe. Perfect for gatherings, this delightful dessert was first introduced to me at a friend's holiday party nearly a decade ago. Since then, it has become a staple at my own celebrations, creating an unforgettable experience for guests dipping fresh fruits and cake into this luscious mixture. Ideal for special occasions or simply as a treat for yourself, this fondue will leave your taste buds dancing. Serve it with an array of fresh strawberries, juicy pineapple chunks, velvety cantaloupe, ripe bananas, and soft sponge or pound cake for the ultimate indulgence.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
Semi-sweet chocolate chips
12 ounces (unpacked)
Caramels
14 ounces (unwrapped)
Evaporated milk
12 ounces (can)
Unsalted butter
1/2 cup (cubed)
Raspberry preserves or jam
1/2 cup (measured)
Sponge cake or pound cake
to taste (cut into bite-sized pieces)
Fresh fruit
to taste (cut into bite-sized chunks)
Instructions
1
In a 2-quart saucepan, combine the semi-sweet chocolate chips, unwrapped caramels, evaporated milk, unsalted butter, and raspberry preserves.
2
Place the saucepan over low heat and stir continuously. Be patient, as this process may take between 20 to 30 minutes to achieve a smooth, melted consistency. Avoid raising the heat, as this can cause the fondue to burn.
3
Once the mixture is completely melted and blended, carefully pour it into a fondue pot or a medium-sized crockpot set to low heat to keep it warm.
4
Prepare a beautiful platter with bite-sized pieces of sponge cake or pound cake alongside fresh fruit options such as strawberries, pineapple, cantaloupe, and bananas. Provide fondue forks or skewers for dipping enjoyment.
5
Gather friends and family around the table and indulge in the rich and creamy fondue, savoring the delightful combinations of flavors!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Decadent Chocolate Caramel Raspberry Fondue?
It is a luxurious dessert dip made by melting semi-sweet chocolate, caramels, and raspberry preserves together with evaporated milk and butter.
What type of chocolate is best for this recipe?
The recipe recommends 12 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate chips for a balanced flavor.
How long does it take to prepare the fondue base?
It typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes to achieve a smooth, melted consistency over low heat.
Can I speed up the melting process by using high heat?
No, you should avoid raising the heat as this can cause the chocolate and caramel mixture to burn.
What kind of caramels should I buy?
You should use 14 ounces of standard soft caramels, ensuring they are unwrapped before cooking.
Can I use regular milk instead of evaporated milk?
Evaporated milk is preferred for its creaminess and stability; regular milk may result in a thinner consistency.
Is salted butter acceptable for this fondue?
The recipe calls for unsalted butter, but salted butter can be used if you enjoy a subtle salty-sweet contrast.
What is the purpose of adding raspberry preserves?
The preserves add a tart fruitiness that cuts through the richness of the chocolate and caramel.
How should I keep the fondue warm during a party?
Transfer the mixture to a fondue pot or a medium-sized crockpot set to low heat.
What are the best fruit options for dipping?
Strawberries, pineapple chunks, cantaloupe, and bananas are excellent choices.
What types of cake work well with this fondue?
Sponge cake or pound cake are ideal because they are sturdy enough to be skewered and dipped.
How do I prevent the fondue from burning in the saucepan?
Stir the mixture continuously while it is over low heat to ensure even melting and prevent sticking.
What should I do if the fondue is too thick?
You can stir in a small amount of additional evaporated milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I make this recipe in a microwave?
It is safer to use a saucepan on the stove to better control the temperature and prevent scorching.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: chocolate chips, caramels, evaporated milk, butter, raspberry preserves, cake, and fruit.
Is this fondue recipe gluten-free?
The fondue base is generally gluten-free, but you must ensure your cake dippers are gluten-free and check the labels on the chocolate and caramels.
Can I use dark chocolate instead of semi-sweet?
Yes, dark chocolate can be used for a more intense, less sweet flavor profile.
Can I substitute the raspberry preserves with another flavor?
Yes, strawberry or apricot preserves would also be delicious alternatives.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
How do I reheat leftover fondue?
Reheat it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.
Can I use fresh raspberries instead of preserves?
Preserves are recommended for a smoother texture; fresh raspberries may add too much moisture and seeds.
What tools are needed for serving?
You will need a serving platter, fondue forks or skewers, and a fondue pot or crockpot.
Is this recipe suitable for a holiday party?
Yes, it was originally introduced as a holiday party staple and is perfect for large gatherings.
Can I add nuts to the recipe?
While not in the base recipe, you can serve chopped nuts on the side for guests to roll their dipped items in.
Can I add a bit of liqueur to the fondue?
Yes, a splash of raspberry liqueur or brandy can be stirred in at the end for an adult version.
What if the caramel doesn't seem to be melting?
Be patient; it can take up to 30 minutes. Keep the heat low and continue stirring regularly.
Can I use frozen fruit for dipping?
Fresh fruit is highly recommended as frozen fruit can become watery and mushy when thawed.
How do I prepare the fruit for the platter?
Wash the fruit and cut it into bite-sized chunks so it is easy for guests to dip.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as it contains no meat products.
Can I make this fondue in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it ahead of time and keep it warm in a crockpot until your guests arrive.