Frequently Asked Questions
What is Silky Smooth Dipping Chocolate?
It is a glossy and velvety chocolate coating made from semisweet chips and shortening, designed for dipping candies and treats.
What are the main ingredients for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of miniature semisweet chocolate chips and 2 tablespoons of Crisco shortening.
Why should I use miniature chocolate chips?
Miniature chips melt more evenly and quickly than standard-sized chips, ensuring a smoother consistency.
What is the purpose of adding shortening to the chocolate?
Shortening gives the chocolate a professional glossy finish and helps it adhere to candies without cracking.
How do I prevent the chocolate from cracking when dipping chilled candies?
Remove chilled candies from the refrigerator about 10 minutes before dipping to bring them closer to room temperature.
What temperature should the water bath be?
The water should be very warm, specifically between 100 degrees and 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
How much water should I use in the larger bowl?
Fill the larger bowl so that the warm water reaches halfway up the sides of the bowl containing the chocolate.
What happens if water gets into the chocolate?
Even a tiny amount of water or steam can cause the chocolate to seize, ruining its smooth texture.
How long does it take to melt the chocolate using the water bath method?
The process is gradual and requires patience, typically taking between 16 to 18 minutes.
Do I need to stir the chocolate constantly while melting?
Yes, you should stir the mixture constantly with a small spatula to ensure it melts smoothly.
Should I do anything after the chocolate is completely melted?
Yes, remove the bowl from the water and continue to stir the chocolate for another 2 to 3 minutes to let it cool slightly.
What is the best way to handle the candy during dipping?
Use a two-pronged fork to pick up the candy and submerge it fully into the melted chocolate.
How do I remove excess chocolate from the candy?
Gently tap the fork against the side of the bowl to let the excess chocolate drip back into the mixture.
Where should I place the candies to set?
Transfer the coated candies onto a baking sheet lined with wax paper to let them firm up.
What if the chocolate thickens too much while I am still dipping?
Simply place the bowl back into the warm water bath until the chocolate returns to the desired consistency.
How can I fix seized chocolate?
If the chocolate seizes, add 1 teaspoon of shortening for every 2 ounces of chocolate to help restore the texture.
Can I use a double boiler instead of a water bath?
Yes, you can melt the chocolate using a double boiler over low heat as an alternative method.
How should the finished chocolates be stored?
Store the finished treats tightly wrapped in a cool, dry place.
Can I refrigerate the finished dipping chocolate?
No, it is recommended that you do not refrigerate the finished chocolate.
How many servings does this recipe produce?
This recipe yields approximately 30 servings.
What are the calories per serving?
There are 25 calories in each serving of the dipping chocolate.
What is the fat content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 1.5 grams of fat.
How many carbohydrates are in a serving?
Each serving contains 2.6 grams of carbohydrates.
What is the sugar content per serving?
There are 1.9 grams of sugar per serving.
How much protein is in this recipe?
There is 0.3 grams of protein per serving.
Is there any fiber in this dipping chocolate?
The fiber content for this recipe is negligible or not listed.
Does this recipe contain cholesterol or sodium?
No, the recipe contains 0mg of cholesterol and 0mg of sodium.
Is this chocolate suitable for professional-quality candies?
Yes, the combination of pure chocolate chips and shortening creates a professional-grade finish.
What kind of chocolate chips work best?
You should use pure miniature semisweet chocolate chips for the best flavor and texture.
Can I use this for coating fruit?
Yes, this versatile dipping chocolate is perfect for coating fruit, candies, and various sweet treats.