Chocolate Fountains

There are numerous tabletop varieties that are quite affordable. However, not all of them melt the chocolate. Some chocolate fountains require that you pre-melt the chocolate, because they're designed only to keep the chocolate heated and flowing. Others are designed to melt the chocolate for you. When choosing a chocolate fountain, make certain you carefully read the description.

For those worried that guests might trip over the power cord and knock the fountain over, there are rechargeable battery-powered models available. Even the clumsiest individual is unlikely to cause an accidental chocolate flood with a battery-powered chocolate fountain such as the Giles Posner model. It actually looks adorable, and comes in a jet black model or a candy pink version. It would be great for an outdoor party, particularly where you may not have an electrical outlet available.

If you want to stay relatively small, try a Sephra model. Sephra is a maker of large-scale chocolate fondue fountains that includes models up to 40 inches tall. For home use, you can get one of their mini-fountains. There’s a 16-inch model available that should be a perfect fit for most people, and this version will melt the chocolate for you so that you don’t have to melt it in the microwave first.

Considerations

When looking for a fountain, there are several things to consider. For example, some systems require that you pre-melt the confection. You'll want a system that does the melting for you. Multiple temperature settings will help you in this area, as well as allowing you to use the fountain for other mixtures besides chocolate.

Look for an easy-to-clean, stainless steel system that is dishwasher safe. In addition, you'll want an appliance that uses an auger-style pump that doesn't require adding oil.

Most systems are powered by an electrical cord you simply plug in. However, if you're planning on using your fountain outside or in some other setting where an electrical outlet is unavailable, there are models that are battery powered.

You'll want to use 100% natural chocolate with over 50% cocoa butter. Milk, dark, and white chocolates are commonly used in fountains (coming in powder, drop or liquid forms). The price per pound generally ranges from $5 to $10.

Here Is A Fun Fact

There's a fountain bigger than anything you've probably ever seen. The largest chocolate fountain in the world is located at the Bellagio in Las Vegas. It measures a whopping 27 feet in height, although only 14 feet of the fountain is actually visible. The Bellagio’s chocolate fountain circulates a bit over 2000 pounds of white chocolate and milk chocolate in total.

It consists of 25 glass "shells" into which the chocolate spills from pipes in the ceiling. Upon close inspection, those with an eye for art will note that the basins are in fact distinctly Chihuly-esque. As a matter of fact, the ceiling sculpture in the Bellagio’s lobby was designed by noted glass artist Dale Chihuly. If you ever travel to Las Vegas, you absolutely must get a look at this fountain! Meanwhile, have fun at home with your own mini-fountain.

Rival CFF5 Chocolate Fondue Fountain
Add to the festive atmosphere of birthdays, dinner parties, and holiday gatherings with this easy-to-use chocolate fountain. The unit's heated stainless-steel bowl holds up to 5 pounds of chocolate, and its auger-style pump creates a two-tiered waterfall of melted chocolate. Guests will enjoy dipping strawberries, cookies, and pretzels--even marshmallows. Other useful highlights include a dial control with "off" and two setting options, an "on" indicator light, stabilizing feet, and quiet operation. The fountain is simple to assemble, and its dishwasher-safe parts make for fast cleanup. Instructions and entertaining ideas are included. The chocolate fountain measures approximately 10 by 10 by 15 inches and carries a one-year limited warranty.
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Nostalgia Electrics CFF-900 Stainless-Steel Chocolate Fondue Fountain
Old Fashioned Chocolate Fondue Fountain. Just pour melted brown or white chocolate into the base and switch on the motor, and the chocolate travels up the tower before gently cascading over each tier. Then have your guests choose their favorite snack-strawberries, marshmallows, cookies, pretzels, whatever-and it's ready, set...dip! Perfect for wedding and baby showers, kids' parties, or any occasion. Easily disassembles for quick clean up. 120V, 60Hz, 170W, 170W.
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