Chocolates

Theobroma cacao Confection / Baking

Chocolates Confection / Baking

At a Glance

  • Category Confection / Baking

The Forktionary Angle

"A universal language of indulgence, capable of profound complexity from bitter intensity to creamy sweetness, a true culinary chameleon."

Definition

A broad category of confections derived from cacao beans, known for their rich, often sweet and bitter flavor, enjoyed globally as a treat or ingredient.

Cacao Content Ranges from 0% (white) to 100% (unsweetened)
Melting Point Roughly 86-90°F (30-32°C) for most types
Tempering Importance Ensures shine, snap, and resistance to blooming

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Chocolates are:

Sweet Bitter Earthy Fruity Nutty Creamy (depending on type)

Chef’s Secret

When melting chocolate, use a double boiler or microwave on low power, stirring frequently, and never let water or steam come into contact to prevent seizing.

Best Substitutes

Cocoa Powder

with fat and sugar

Carob Powder

for some uses
Ratio 1:1

Chocolate Chips

for chunks/melts
Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Consider cacao percentage for desired bitterness. Look for fair trade and ethically sourced options. For baking, use specific types like unsweetened, bittersweet, or semi-sweet.

Recipes Using Chocolates

Served Cold Course Served Cold Occasion

4 Inch Chocolate Peanut Butter Cheesecake

Indulge in the rich decadence of this individual-sized chocolate peanut butter cheesecake! Perfect for a single serving, this recipe makes a delightful treat without the guilt of a whole cake. This recipe is easily scaled up for a larger 9-inch cheesecake. Creamy cheesecake filling, swirled with peanut butter and chocolate, sits atop a crunchy pretzel crust and is finished with a luscious white chocolate peanut butter topping. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

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Course Time To Make Sweet Tarts

5 Min Chocolate Tart

Impress your guests with this decadent 5-minute chocolate tart! This incredibly easy recipe requires minimal prep and delivers maximum chocolatey goodness. Perfect for last-minute dessert emergencies or when you crave a rich, creamy treat. Get ready for a seriously sinful indulgence!

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Desserts Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Valentines Day

A Little Chocolate Cake

Indulge in this decadent A Little Chocolate Cake recipe! This easy-to-follow recipe delivers a rich, moist chocolate cake perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings. Ready in under an hour, it's ideal for a quick dessert or a delightful treat any time. Get ready to impress with this simple yet stunning chocolate cake.

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Dietary Desserts Course Time To Make

Alfajores

Indulge in the rich, buttery goodness of homemade Alfajores! This authentic South American recipe, adapted from a Nestle classic, yields incredibly delicious sandwich cookies with a melt-in-your-mouth dulce de leche filling. While it requires a bit of time and effort, the rewarding taste is well worth it. Prepare to impress your friends and family with these delightful treats!

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Cookies And Brownies 60 Minutes Or Less Course Cookies And Brownies

Almond Brown Sugar Brownies

Indulge in these decadent Almond Brown Sugar Brownies! This homemade recipe delivers intensely rich, chewy brownies with a delightful almond flavor and a hint of brown sugar sweetness. Perfect for satisfying your chocolate cravings, these brownies are easy to make and guaranteed to impress. Get ready for the ultimate brownie experience!

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Romantic Occasion 15 Minutes Or Less Taste Mood

Angelinas Hot Chocolate

Recreate the magic of Angelina's cafe in Paris with this decadent hot chocolate recipe! Since 1903, Angelina has delighted chocolate lovers with their intensely rich, thick hot chocolate, served in charming demitasse cups. This easy-to-follow recipe uses high-quality chocolate bars melted to perfection for an unbelievably smooth and luxurious experience. Top with a dollop of mascarpone and whipped cream for the ultimate indulgence. Perfect for a romantic evening, a cozy afternoon treat, or impressing your guests!

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Low In Something Course Low In Something Occasion

Aprs Ski Holiday Hot Chocolate With Brandy And Cream

Indulge in the ultimate winter warmer: a decadent Après-Ski Holiday Hot Chocolate! This rich, spiced cinnamon hot chocolate is generously laced with brandy (optional) and crowned with fluffy whipped cream. Relive the cozy magic of après-ski in the German and French Alps with every sip. Perfect for chilly evenings, Christmas, New Year's, and those spontaneous 'why not?' moments throughout the holiday season. This recipe makes four generous mugs of pure bliss. Upgrade your hot chocolate experience with high-quality, high-cocoa solids chocolate – it makes all the difference! Salut!

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Desserts Time To Make Desserts Main Ingredient

Artpark Brownies

Indulge in these intensely chocolatey Artpark Brownies, adapted from the legendary Ruth Reichl's "Tender at the Bone." The secret? High-quality chocolate! This recipe guarantees fudgy, rich brownies that will melt in your mouth. Make sure your oven is calibrated for perfect results – precise temperature is key to brownie perfection. Get ready to experience brownie bliss!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient 60 Minutes Or Less Bar Cookies

B1 Brownies

Indulge in intensely fudgy, decadent B1 Brownies! These rich and intensely chocolatey brownies are the perfect treat, enjoyed plain or elevated with a scoop of your favorite ice cream and a drizzle of hot fudge. Get ready for the ultimate brownie experience!

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Time To Make Low Sodium Chocolate Puddings And Mousses

Bailey's Chocolate Mousse

Indulge in this decadent Bailey's Irish Cream Chocolate Mousse! This luxurious dessert elevates classic chocolate mousse with the rich, creamy taste of Bailey's Irish Cream and a touch of espresso. A perfect after-dinner treat or special occasion dessert, this easy-to-follow recipe will impress your guests. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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4 Hours Or Less Cakes Main Ingredient Course

Banana Caramel Chocolate Chunk Cake

Indulge in pure decadence with this irresistible Banana Caramel Chocolate Chunk Cake! Moist banana cake bursting with pecans and chocolate chunks, delicately spiced and infused with a luscious caramel glaze that sinks into every bite. This heavenly dessert is the ultimate comfort food – a true taste of paradise! Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any day you deserve a treat.

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Meat Meat Course 4 Hours Or Less

Barbecued Chicken Pot Pie From Cooking Light

Spice up your dinner routine with this unique Barbecued Chicken Pot Pie! Tender shredded chicken, sweet and spicy BBQ sauce with a hint of dark chocolate, all nestled under a golden-brown cornbread lattice crust. This recipe is surprisingly easy and delivers incredible flavor – a true crowd-pleaser!

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Preparation Main Ingredient Cookies And Brownies Gifts

Barefoot Contessa's Outrageous Oreo Crunch Brownies

Indulge in the legendary Barefoot Contessa's Outrageous Oreo Crunch Brownies! These decadent brownies are packed with rich chocolate, crunchy Oreos, and a hint of irresistible sweetness. A perfect dessert for chocolate lovers and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Get ready for a taste of pure bliss!

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Time To Make Main Ingredient Served Hot Time To Make

Beautiful Nescafe Oriental Spring

Indulge in the exotic flavors of the Beautiful Nescafe Oriental Spring! This quick and easy recipe blends the rich aroma of orange blossom water (or rose water) with the comforting warmth of Nescafé, creating a delightful hot beverage perfect for a cozy evening or a sophisticated treat. Inspired by the Nescafé cocktail menu cookbook, this recipe is sure to become your new favorite. Discover the magic of this aromatic and delicious drink!

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Low In Something Preparation Presentation Dietary

Ben Jerry's Chocolate Ice Cream

Indulge in this decadent, homemade chocolate ice cream recipe inspired by Ben & Jerry's! This rich and creamy concoction is elevated with crunchy, roasted almonds for the perfect textural contrast. Whether you prefer salted or unsalted, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers a gourmet ice cream experience in under 3.5 hours. Perfect for a hot summer day or any special occasion!

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Preparation Cookies And Brownies Oven Time To Make

Best Ever Brownies From Baking With Julia Child

Indulge in the ultimate fudge brownie experience! These decadent brownies, inspired by the legendary Julia Child, are rich, intensely chocolatey, and unbelievably creamy. Forget cakey – this recipe delivers the ultimate in soft, dark, and intensely fudgy brownies. Their luxuriously smooth texture makes them a truly special treat, perfect for sharing (or not!). A unique mixing method, featuring a lightened egg mixture, creates an airy yet intensely decadent brownie that will redefine your expectations. Prepare to be amazed!

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Lunch Oven Snacks Equipment

Better Than Cash Brownies

These easy and inexpensive brownies are so delicious, they're practically better than cash! Perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself, this recipe delivers fudgy, rich brownies that will become your new go-to dessert. Inspired by a heartfelt thank you, these brownies were a huge hit – now it's your turn to experience the magic!

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Cookies And Brownies Cookies And Brownies Desserts Chocolate Chip Cookies

Kiwi Crisps

Craving a crispy, melt-in-your-mouth treat? These Kiwi Crisps are a New Zealand twist on classic chocolate chip cookies – delivering a delightfully crunchy texture you won't believe! Forget chewy; these cookies are all about that satisfying snap. This easy recipe is perfect for baking enthusiasts of all levels, and the results are undeniably delicious.

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