tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12543198829253841232024-03-05T06:26:01.011-08:00The Chocolate LadyThe Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.comBlogger73125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-49099634159549760362012-02-25T20:08:00.006-08:002012-02-25T21:08:44.927-08:00Iced Sugar CookiesThis week we had a baby shower for a co-worker, who is expecting a sweet, baby girl. <br /><br />The organizer had planned for a fun activity during the party; decorating onesies. She had iron on fabric and stencils, along with fabric pens, plenty of plain onesies, and an iron - hot and ready to go. We made some cute little outfits for the mommy-to-be to take home.<br /><br />I signed up to make desserts, and wanted to bring something that would coordinate....onesie cookies.<br /><br />The new baby is named, Lucy, and we had a, "We Love Lucy" theme, with red and white....so I iced the cookies to match.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6G6xnynNASnVjSP8uk3evFkGNq5zUYSNkhkZ4VVEvu-dZQWzoWTb4F9X1xx_w50bFIuiRQMfWfZuMbdnMqtHd6HrMLEV3nv899k5ujpOGmEdAz9gKNqQyhypgc1_uxrjZofAYmBPX-I/s1600/IMG_1962.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO6G6xnynNASnVjSP8uk3evFkGNq5zUYSNkhkZ4VVEvu-dZQWzoWTb4F9X1xx_w50bFIuiRQMfWfZuMbdnMqtHd6HrMLEV3nv899k5ujpOGmEdAz9gKNqQyhypgc1_uxrjZofAYmBPX-I/s400/IMG_1962.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713293074196978610" /></a><br /><br />These days, you can get cookie cutters in about every shape imaginable. What you dont find in the stores, you can order online.... perfect for any celebration.<br /><br />Years ago I tried different recipes, trying to find the best for cookie cutters. I found one that is fantastic, the dough doesnt spread AT ALL...making it ideal for even the most detailed designs. <br /><br />I wish I could give credit to the source, but I just have this scribbled onto a card in my recipe box...but I owe a lot of "thanks" to the person that posted this;<br /><br />6 cups flour<br />3 tsp. baking powder<br />2 cups butter<br />2 cups sugar<br />2 eggs<br />2 tsp. vanilla extract or desired flavoring (I like almond myself)<br />1 tsp. salt<br /><br />Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs and vanilla. Mix well. Mix dry ingredients and add a little at a time to butter mixture. Mix until flour is completely incorporated and the dough comes together.<br /><br />You should have a ball that looks like this:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7OjLMoDow-mEGaXa0Q11270KndeGIBdr_uciPXWwl91BgmFonYx31bkYniPBYWgxpWrcw3_zkXL2oyWmImSOGRrcmFIZj3DCDgcHhqjzwpWu-c_xeuKX6L1XUt3w218XOfogL_BZ1vYQ/s1600/IMG_1935.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7OjLMoDow-mEGaXa0Q11270KndeGIBdr_uciPXWwl91BgmFonYx31bkYniPBYWgxpWrcw3_zkXL2oyWmImSOGRrcmFIZj3DCDgcHhqjzwpWu-c_xeuKX6L1XUt3w218XOfogL_BZ1vYQ/s400/IMG_1935.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292182743836402" /></a><br /><br />Roll to desired thickness and cut into desired shapes. Bake on ungreased baking sheet at 350 degrees for 8 to 10 minutes or until just beginning to turn brown around the edges. This recipe can make up to 5 dozen, 3" cookies.<br /><br />It is best to cut out the designs after the dough has been refrigerated. <br /><br />One trick that I have found, is to put some of the dough between two pieces of parchment paper, BEFORE REFRIGERATING and roll it out to the desired thickness. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2LQeeGJlUPmge8M-1ik2GBq3t_cLJl9OUqQZbMX7KDR5WegR3L2MXXJOBt4qxqNhahZwIK7ECX2-SfMyV8XKrchlRJzcxV53ILJIPGUS2F_RxrkJwZptGbm-tLiYB333W65pMmorbFZ0/s1600/IMG_1930.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2LQeeGJlUPmge8M-1ik2GBq3t_cLJl9OUqQZbMX7KDR5WegR3L2MXXJOBt4qxqNhahZwIK7ECX2-SfMyV8XKrchlRJzcxV53ILJIPGUS2F_RxrkJwZptGbm-tLiYB333W65pMmorbFZ0/s400/IMG_1930.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292171761764562" /></a><br /><br />It's much easier to roll when it is soft, and also it wont stick when it is between the paper. Then, after it is flat, you can refrigerate it. <br /><br />After the dough has chilled, take it out.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIR6SCqDf5AkXIN1g5K0-9iDyzbqgezZhEMEmeGGMOecM2Dvi2zCjtaowzoCJaI-7lGO7jiHZLPdQYAJAbnH-rrbd4A1CbsqAvAZEX0bv6JWwpmNHV11XsRpoZFwGCNht8ViwZHxQz1DU/s1600/IMG_1933.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIR6SCqDf5AkXIN1g5K0-9iDyzbqgezZhEMEmeGGMOecM2Dvi2zCjtaowzoCJaI-7lGO7jiHZLPdQYAJAbnH-rrbd4A1CbsqAvAZEX0bv6JWwpmNHV11XsRpoZFwGCNht8ViwZHxQz1DU/s400/IMG_1933.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292173732092818" /></a><br /><br />Use your cutter to start making shapes......<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Q0CvHS-k4PFfGXIEYcshgSs-oCHmoxcX9blxBT9GU84nCR3BgvDVWdXclxYA-4KQ6X1slFjYqF899MuhL6NwD1zmXlUEGlOTgs20eLAPMvCIay7vqgnNrc9oucCr-LTBsb4vNUT751I/s1600/IMG_1934.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8Q0CvHS-k4PFfGXIEYcshgSs-oCHmoxcX9blxBT9GU84nCR3BgvDVWdXclxYA-4KQ6X1slFjYqF899MuhL6NwD1zmXlUEGlOTgs20eLAPMvCIay7vqgnNrc9oucCr-LTBsb4vNUT751I/s400/IMG_1934.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292180559443154" /></a><br /><br />They dont take long to bake, so you will want to keep an eye out for them, and pull them out just when the edges start to brown.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTx8LbfRJLKPta4w2JnmhOFOHwuUBNUf4aWI6pWH75qx2e-D7AqAmwkqYYmMbuTyYn6EDarZiqNxpzcAX8kPYvZ7dPrsJDem8VGYb6tyiZMTYV9QSlqvsKjf1__FPPO_o1WzJ9gBfL-RE/s1600/IMG_1938.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTx8LbfRJLKPta4w2JnmhOFOHwuUBNUf4aWI6pWH75qx2e-D7AqAmwkqYYmMbuTyYn6EDarZiqNxpzcAX8kPYvZ7dPrsJDem8VGYb6tyiZMTYV9QSlqvsKjf1__FPPO_o1WzJ9gBfL-RE/s400/IMG_1938.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292194152949666" /></a><br /><br />Once the cookies have completely cooled, you can ice them. I use royal icing, as it hardens up nicely. I make 2 batches per color; one a little bit thicker for tracing around the edges....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtCNzOIKzFIPhDn8vQL9zHVT5pwpGm4RhEQSwuZxtVH3LcntlO6asGzpl_8j8y0ik8QY6bg9_1UxcdD2S2KBs8-1YDrjYTLuCn4yCNVE-IbCrulsw5CZUa8TRXZgTPEGDmUHNVv4zzGE/s1600/IMG_1951.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVtCNzOIKzFIPhDn8vQL9zHVT5pwpGm4RhEQSwuZxtVH3LcntlO6asGzpl_8j8y0ik8QY6bg9_1UxcdD2S2KBs8-1YDrjYTLuCn4yCNVE-IbCrulsw5CZUa8TRXZgTPEGDmUHNVv4zzGE/s400/IMG_1951.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292817764298722" /></a><br /><br />and a second batch that is just a tiny bit thinner, for filling in the cookie.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuybNMZqvQFulT3aUL5fXWAGbygBAAJKge1o0jo8sIX5pJlIBFyP9ihTQWVYnp50pGu8TFlKqz9Gsr7Hk4ncWz7R1T04Up6pSI4gf3l-KhEovdYQWqyOWu7QmdkXIr_LYocNCqU652hIM/s1600/IMG_1953.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuybNMZqvQFulT3aUL5fXWAGbygBAAJKge1o0jo8sIX5pJlIBFyP9ihTQWVYnp50pGu8TFlKqz9Gsr7Hk4ncWz7R1T04Up6pSI4gf3l-KhEovdYQWqyOWu7QmdkXIr_LYocNCqU652hIM/s400/IMG_1953.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292827139523298" /></a><br /><br />The easiest, and neatest way to frost them, is using plastic bottles. I bought a bunch of them at the craft store, and get a lot of use out of them. During the holidays you can fill them with different colors of frosting and let the kids decorate cookies....<br /><br />I prefer the smaller bottles, as you can make fine details nicely.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8UDNRmP9UUWUmcRJdz2jc91NhPLHO0ewpwJ-fADHe4_xSwZexaY7O1FMA_dmR06ppT4BcrXlWihpkg-FU-VCj3SUuUawHOdxb8rChvZZhB4OkqqqUmXzT5V9zNyooGoRMssaR1Wnamk/s1600/IMG_1959.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC8UDNRmP9UUWUmcRJdz2jc91NhPLHO0ewpwJ-fADHe4_xSwZexaY7O1FMA_dmR06ppT4BcrXlWihpkg-FU-VCj3SUuUawHOdxb8rChvZZhB4OkqqqUmXzT5V9zNyooGoRMssaR1Wnamk/s400/IMG_1959.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292838126882546" /></a><br /><br />Once the icing has been filled in, you can add embellishments. I used candy pearls to accent the red cookies, and red hots as buttons on the white. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxDczKao2kwD1kKdS8wnEMUcyqrnQNaQ-xEcnjtknPWZgOxS9fh4jxdvBzsVNIJW8ViZUfIEO-D3jmdz79txyGU21WrnBqj06f5pDoztxM__psdrvRTYLlE_Ypwhc4x1g25OXrCP4hM0/s1600/IMG_1956.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkxDczKao2kwD1kKdS8wnEMUcyqrnQNaQ-xEcnjtknPWZgOxS9fh4jxdvBzsVNIJW8ViZUfIEO-D3jmdz79txyGU21WrnBqj06f5pDoztxM__psdrvRTYLlE_Ypwhc4x1g25OXrCP4hM0/s400/IMG_1956.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292831113087266" /></a><br /><br />When the icing is completely dry, you can use the thicker frosting to add additional accents, as I did here with the arm sleeves and leg holes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisRt7qP4pK7Nr1aNdHQaP7zX7VscPXnpeVtTzHi_R0gq_SlVb8SaNWhBkQdkJ8B5De34qxRoMoTi6GOht12zreg83ILpWpGXkBhyphenhyphenus0jma21dninY4n7gpK1oxzGgqrQUBxpyjj8t4GSM/s1600/IMG_1960.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisRt7qP4pK7Nr1aNdHQaP7zX7VscPXnpeVtTzHi_R0gq_SlVb8SaNWhBkQdkJ8B5De34qxRoMoTi6GOht12zreg83ILpWpGXkBhyphenhyphenus0jma21dninY4n7gpK1oxzGgqrQUBxpyjj8t4GSM/s400/IMG_1960.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713292838907832018" /></a><br /><br />These cookies make great party favors and gift accents too....and because the royal icing hardens, they wont smudge in plastic treat bags.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRShuS8_FsMhzxaGI-obJMwacbok5vjb04bTovWNhTkEvHbdaO5ZTmoiscOI_9iYmzpe7mho_dVLoAasNDu4CaOQzzmd2w9xFul0Y0ao-HCeiTRAbUbOhnwid1YAWvUP__0O2idg_GnFM/s1600/IMG_1966.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRShuS8_FsMhzxaGI-obJMwacbok5vjb04bTovWNhTkEvHbdaO5ZTmoiscOI_9iYmzpe7mho_dVLoAasNDu4CaOQzzmd2w9xFul0Y0ao-HCeiTRAbUbOhnwid1YAWvUP__0O2idg_GnFM/s400/IMG_1966.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5713297823035400546" /></a><br /><br />I hope this inspires you to make these cookies for your next party!The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-75744958097453983562012-02-24T20:36:00.006-08:002012-02-24T21:18:18.933-08:00Floral Bouquet CakeA couple of years ago, I was fortunate enough to meet a talented chef online, her name is Gigi and she owns, Kids Culinary Adventures, in Northern California. I encourage you to like their facebook page; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kidsculinaryadventures"> Kids Culinary Adventures Facebook Page </a> And, if you are in the bay area, they do kids classes and lots of fun activities, so check them out.<br /><br />Gigi had the most amazing cake displayed, and I decided to make one for a birthday party for co-workers. <br /><br />First, let me show you my end result, and then we can go step-by-step.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53mlHAukEjgNbX65Eurx2WbYPqvX_aNmU67LqzXL-HXIX2OVVT1-9MmRDluJSEEQBPLoX2nZqKxrtEdsuflLBS3EDxMUUdZjhR2dAFw0XYLHJa8W-tpMESJL5A_fpxfNyvLzqaPhDlyA/s1600/IMG_1963.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53mlHAukEjgNbX65Eurx2WbYPqvX_aNmU67LqzXL-HXIX2OVVT1-9MmRDluJSEEQBPLoX2nZqKxrtEdsuflLBS3EDxMUUdZjhR2dAFw0XYLHJa8W-tpMESJL5A_fpxfNyvLzqaPhDlyA/s400/IMG_1963.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712928618422201650" /></a><br /><br />I stacked a two-tiered cake, and put "planks" of chocolate around the edges. They are affixed with frosting, but the pretty ribbon also keeps them in place. The finishing touch is the bright bouquet on top. It almost looks too fancy to eat. Gigi was so creative to come up with this beautiful design.....it's my favorite "pretty cake"<br /><br />Baking the cake was easy....you can make any size you want. In fact, for Mother's Day in 2010, we made mini versions out of cupcakes at my baking class. This time, I used two, 6 inch cakes.<br /><br />First step is to grease and flour your pans, so you can remove the cake easily.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAYSVqgAtcc1HM8iRnpAmZH_PiDeOeWsfhQ-vLozo5ogt7CDEJ63V01ba844QRFq9dxN4Ghl8A_ixSc-JIBTjS2qMGEcgNp90gGDvJRinZ_Ei4K3FyyT7Cusjpx-2BXgz573mWZfaMZ4/s1600/IMG_1943.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWAYSVqgAtcc1HM8iRnpAmZH_PiDeOeWsfhQ-vLozo5ogt7CDEJ63V01ba844QRFq9dxN4Ghl8A_ixSc-JIBTjS2qMGEcgNp90gGDvJRinZ_Ei4K3FyyT7Cusjpx-2BXgz573mWZfaMZ4/s400/IMG_1943.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712930259067199874" /></a><br /><br />Pour the cake batter into the pan, making sure it is evenly divided between your pans.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FbgDGxAElYi6bXH2Tq8padXyneO17k9pnGoETahUiu0gzmtcCBej0VwUb3IlI4V4pK9OA_BbHlCcrX6Ho8mKZGlEVr8HFXedhQvPFTn8jeJJDJuJC3IhqPwq6bpqDMsY2sk-uUiFaAk/s1600/IMG_1944.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4FbgDGxAElYi6bXH2Tq8padXyneO17k9pnGoETahUiu0gzmtcCBej0VwUb3IlI4V4pK9OA_BbHlCcrX6Ho8mKZGlEVr8HFXedhQvPFTn8jeJJDJuJC3IhqPwq6bpqDMsY2sk-uUiFaAk/s400/IMG_1944.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712930262904399650" /></a><br /><br />While your cakes are baking, you can temper your chocolate.<br /><br />Tempering is the process of heating and cooling, at precise temperatures, so that the chocolate ends up with a hard, shiny shell. This does not work by melting and cooling, at least not with real chocolate. You can always temper by hand (which is time consuming and a fickle process), you can use fake chocolate (which you can warm up and cool in the fridge), or you can get a tempering machine. I use my tempering machine often, it's the size of a shoe box, and is quick and easy. I have other pictures and videos on this site, if you want to learn more about tempering. <br /><br />I tempered white chocolate, and then, using a fork, drizzled it onto parchment paper.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkenWtq5iu_ZKKvVi9qVKJaOUKILMyXa_Z-VkJhYSC9je2GoW-0rmGyfll9SLcA-Pp5MIOAYIPajBiiYhSlSIU5Um-z76niRLpHOIDrF7T7xcfDPfLMn1P2LhhqygvzB1kWHwlHIKriE/s1600/IMG_1949.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmkenWtq5iu_ZKKvVi9qVKJaOUKILMyXa_Z-VkJhYSC9je2GoW-0rmGyfll9SLcA-Pp5MIOAYIPajBiiYhSlSIU5Um-z76niRLpHOIDrF7T7xcfDPfLMn1P2LhhqygvzB1kWHwlHIKriE/s400/IMG_1949.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712930273627304466" /></a><br /><br />It's important to let the chocolate cool and set up, before adding another chocolate layer. I tempered dark chocolate, and then spread it out onto the drizzled white chocolate. I did my best to make the level of thickness even.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XmAonJ_23QdnbGwgI2j58V2lfMDgW5IES7StYGUWTxLHqU7pt8Iy0snQcEc_1ZB91XexN0JJ_K3fKMJYNeYIkMhg1i6LUnaWxiRnKSHRBQXls644NOr2jIOMrPLzVKWiWm2BQKSfF0Y/s1600/IMG_1952.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4XmAonJ_23QdnbGwgI2j58V2lfMDgW5IES7StYGUWTxLHqU7pt8Iy0snQcEc_1ZB91XexN0JJ_K3fKMJYNeYIkMhg1i6LUnaWxiRnKSHRBQXls644NOr2jIOMrPLzVKWiWm2BQKSfF0Y/s400/IMG_1952.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712930278386476114" /></a><br /><br />After about 10 minutes, the chocolate started to harden, and that is the time to use a knife to score the "planks". When I first spread the chocolate, it was shiny, but as it starts to harden, it becomes matte, and that is when you want to cut it. If you wait too long, you will crack the chocolate strips. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BkClHQELofUBtTB8HQy9qQQCzpSUhIgs4kgeaxFuw8WOox7h_pKW6uhswk-mKeqQ2uYNZWUBCvN2KHr7K1LbieOX2OKzm-wvKc3E-J0-f9Mu50gJyM_YWrUulrmo4A91sK3z79VrbxI/s1600/IMG_1955.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4BkClHQELofUBtTB8HQy9qQQCzpSUhIgs4kgeaxFuw8WOox7h_pKW6uhswk-mKeqQ2uYNZWUBCvN2KHr7K1LbieOX2OKzm-wvKc3E-J0-f9Mu50gJyM_YWrUulrmo4A91sK3z79VrbxI/s400/IMG_1955.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712930280251508210" /></a><br /><br />When you stack your cakes, make sure that you use a generous portion of frosting along the side. I actually like to frost as I go, so the frosting has not started to set or dry, and is better able to secure the chocolate planks. Here is a stacked cake, with two of the chocolate strips on....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaf84D7XQyC1RFjxrFVudAXB7eEGrSfcl-2MWzlu9yWBBLDWUfTccCfPeAstBg1j_l45SWgUF3EFls4hJPcjj7PV_t8TkzK5GWLjKnN8-biS_UoNbFkNnt761f4ssFsJgRtVZIg9XVFh8/s1600/IMG_1957.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaf84D7XQyC1RFjxrFVudAXB7eEGrSfcl-2MWzlu9yWBBLDWUfTccCfPeAstBg1j_l45SWgUF3EFls4hJPcjj7PV_t8TkzK5GWLjKnN8-biS_UoNbFkNnt761f4ssFsJgRtVZIg9XVFh8/s400/IMG_1957.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712934803040548482" /></a><br /><br />I continue icing the sides, and carefully placing the chocolate on, so that the chocolate planks are touching each other....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJ2OX3jJlGl8joDASKDgTioG-f2NdAfP1cHnJWPkX7M0_UvmACbApxUzhascOkDiwz4CMMjDuu_npB-0YGyu7goqRIGpnpKCDcRwP3r6TSK6NfQVVcM3ORYrDK0omLL__AQNBXrZug4Q/s1600/IMG_1958.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIJ2OX3jJlGl8joDASKDgTioG-f2NdAfP1cHnJWPkX7M0_UvmACbApxUzhascOkDiwz4CMMjDuu_npB-0YGyu7goqRIGpnpKCDcRwP3r6TSK6NfQVVcM3ORYrDK0omLL__AQNBXrZug4Q/s400/IMG_1958.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712934805905603090" /></a><br /><br />When I have put chocolate around the entire cake, I tie ribbons around the cake. This is a great place to accentuate colors or themes....and also to give an added bit of support to the chocolate.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk13IEr8w9uZMSbHboIKNB4MUVHnfxSXVpSxz7ufX0KuHiWVrkBtbszmGZ6VfrqV6cycjCy8jgqWBbB-KnHOttYVwSHatvQb436N6hQ2Zo7OMwFZ_2ItUANrUybTu7F5VmRh6PKymfL_o/s1600/IMG_1961.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgk13IEr8w9uZMSbHboIKNB4MUVHnfxSXVpSxz7ufX0KuHiWVrkBtbszmGZ6VfrqV6cycjCy8jgqWBbB-KnHOttYVwSHatvQb436N6hQ2Zo7OMwFZ_2ItUANrUybTu7F5VmRh6PKymfL_o/s400/IMG_1961.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712938068844345506" /></a><br /><br />I noticed on Gigi's cake, that the top of the chocolate was uneven, and had that "natural" look...and that is what I have done. When I made the strips, I made them flat and level on the top and bottom, and then broke the tops to be uneven. <br /><br />To insert flowers, use straws, cut in half, and insert them into the top of the cake. You can then place the flower stem into the straw. You may want to play around a bit, so that the flowers are set in such a way to cover some of the chocolate edges. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53mlHAukEjgNbX65Eurx2WbYPqvX_aNmU67LqzXL-HXIX2OVVT1-9MmRDluJSEEQBPLoX2nZqKxrtEdsuflLBS3EDxMUUdZjhR2dAFw0XYLHJa8W-tpMESJL5A_fpxfNyvLzqaPhDlyA/s1600/IMG_1963.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj53mlHAukEjgNbX65Eurx2WbYPqvX_aNmU67LqzXL-HXIX2OVVT1-9MmRDluJSEEQBPLoX2nZqKxrtEdsuflLBS3EDxMUUdZjhR2dAFw0XYLHJa8W-tpMESJL5A_fpxfNyvLzqaPhDlyA/s400/IMG_1963.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712928618422201650" /></a><br /><br />You can make a variety of variations on this...change up the chocolate design, the ribbons, the type of flowers.....Id love to make this with white chocolate sides, and hydrangeas on top...wouldnt that be gorgeous??<br /><br />Thanks again, Gigi, for the inspiration :)The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-68375317038673977732012-02-24T20:25:00.003-08:002012-02-24T20:31:54.264-08:00Valentine's Day 2012Remember when Valentine's Day meant exchanging mini cards decorated with super heros or Barbie? <br /><br />It's much more fun to make delicious treats to share with friends.....<br /><br />My kids each picked out a goodie to give to their classmates;<br /><br />Andrew picked marshmallow pops!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUzHBobyUGe3rCRT3HTbv3suHge34BHildQGEtcT8V53Gt8zUfIcvJmpfTvcx0staL24g28sd3HgmLfUwxAu5cngMyI9F5RZfcUutfxNKaRRSa45XjXNSCkNTsAlQLuhxR1JolgEpTTU/s1600/IMG_1907.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnUzHBobyUGe3rCRT3HTbv3suHge34BHildQGEtcT8V53Gt8zUfIcvJmpfTvcx0staL24g28sd3HgmLfUwxAu5cngMyI9F5RZfcUutfxNKaRRSa45XjXNSCkNTsAlQLuhxR1JolgEpTTU/s400/IMG_1907.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712925610155177762" /></a><br /><br /><br />Christine went for the chocolate covered strawberries.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh7RPzDUaaKbohzyt5UcmpKh8XnGgI6N0K36mXzd32GyVlPRRJJSMzRGFoPHXFZx4kvYt90Ah2s9Qm1g6Neie5HwVTZnqBeRpOFP-X6mzE9C91spIEng6yOYW6WHPkz7i8TJkDv-slAVc/s1600/IMG_1909.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh7RPzDUaaKbohzyt5UcmpKh8XnGgI6N0K36mXzd32GyVlPRRJJSMzRGFoPHXFZx4kvYt90Ah2s9Qm1g6Neie5HwVTZnqBeRpOFP-X6mzE9C91spIEng6yOYW6WHPkz7i8TJkDv-slAVc/s400/IMG_1909.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712925615449640514" /></a><br /><br />Elise loved passing out chocolate covered pretzels.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRKi2Irv5_Y9eUV5KIkBDGTnS_AUH1VxRQKSJosytIa-xsOmJFBWtFO2yVpPk3-6wtYotKqoeKeIw1DaOfDju3HbBfnQO9eQcb0A7ngAumPUBza93fd0Ip25VNBgUYmYYry2ckBo9OVU/s1600/IMG_1908.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRKi2Irv5_Y9eUV5KIkBDGTnS_AUH1VxRQKSJosytIa-xsOmJFBWtFO2yVpPk3-6wtYotKqoeKeIw1DaOfDju3HbBfnQO9eQcb0A7ngAumPUBza93fd0Ip25VNBgUYmYYry2ckBo9OVU/s400/IMG_1908.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712925612775839938" /></a><br /><br />I hope your Valentine's Day was sweet <3The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-43114939981602709002012-02-08T23:01:00.002-08:002012-02-24T21:22:24.333-08:00Zebra cakesOk, now that pinterest exists (I still think googling my interest yields more ideas and pics...but anyways)....I have found some fun new ideas.<br /><br />I saw this picture of individual cakes, in mason jars, and this one in particular is rainbow themed....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9k5T0yjy9gvgnt1iz4VEBp6agzfpe2e9dSshCiUql8N6PF69KLhMc8oZ6tXt9YeCxafNObQ2-XkRvy1sfKlc6Pr6fiyVEOipRlCh4Tsfd5SfnC5W9yp6DcZ-FwWgEgzG5OOGRgReEi0/s1600/rainbow+cake.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 234px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN9k5T0yjy9gvgnt1iz4VEBp6agzfpe2e9dSshCiUql8N6PF69KLhMc8oZ6tXt9YeCxafNObQ2-XkRvy1sfKlc6Pr6fiyVEOipRlCh4Tsfd5SfnC5W9yp6DcZ-FwWgEgzG5OOGRgReEi0/s400/rainbow+cake.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707027779900196978" /></a><br /><br />the original poster was Brooke McLay at http://blogs.babble.com/family-kitchen/2011/04/08/rainbow-cake-in-a-jar/<br /><br />So, anyways, when I saw this, I immediately thought they would be fun to make in a "zebra print" design, because...my daughter loves that, and points out all things zebra print. <br /><br />It's her birthday party this weekend, so, naturally, I decided to cram this baking experiment into my busy schedule. <br /><br />Now, one thing you need to know about my blog, if you havent already figured it out....it's for the basic person. My pictures are not professional, I dont fix up my creations, I simply make them, like you would, and the results are not always perfect. My purpose, is to show you how to make fun things at home....even if you arent Martha Stewart. <br /><br />So....on with the zebra cakes.<br /><br />I started out with mason jars. I sprayed baking spray in each one...just a little bit.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2Zwk8qH_R-AZskbJOehfIKgRvB8BtSbp8zcks99NJ3n_43GG8lom2CtgSZJ1K496di4YTi4WW39o3-6bXF0RJS47fCnWRp3FgrzBasXglO48ycz1a14O2dCbgUE-cfZd1hmwKatQ168/s1600/024+%25282%2529.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2Zwk8qH_R-AZskbJOehfIKgRvB8BtSbp8zcks99NJ3n_43GG8lom2CtgSZJ1K496di4YTi4WW39o3-6bXF0RJS47fCnWRp3FgrzBasXglO48ycz1a14O2dCbgUE-cfZd1hmwKatQ168/s400/024+%25282%2529.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707030841093978786" /></a><br /><br />I made a batch of cake mix and left it white.....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgoPcBsrKcw1gW_fWSM6kGQMoS9Wxh4YQkK1nQJZAdUYoimVIBFo9OFHHwpF5-0uHp1SnD9h4vU5dpIrGJpzSYWOhtjN_FJkW7saPhfUJPZnQglFBTLr5Sa71oTVuovdAJZ1kF03bST4/s1600/037.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisgoPcBsrKcw1gW_fWSM6kGQMoS9Wxh4YQkK1nQJZAdUYoimVIBFo9OFHHwpF5-0uHp1SnD9h4vU5dpIrGJpzSYWOhtjN_FJkW7saPhfUJPZnQglFBTLr5Sa71oTVuovdAJZ1kF03bST4/s400/037.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707032855390437922" /></a><br /><br />and I made a batch of cake mix and colored it black (you can get all kinds of food colors and Michaels)....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5228POPXkC3Oi5JWHz3YOu7uJNPUk626SngHZ3QAFWiyUKKJrLCSAqzvRN1jwwfdOaJnLCRz3DYePS4Mos5poRqEDV_1MK8dI_tbK5w2UdinrbyqhJgljd9n_Xm2t3ONsip9UnFN3R0/s1600/036.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhe5228POPXkC3Oi5JWHz3YOu7uJNPUk626SngHZ3QAFWiyUKKJrLCSAqzvRN1jwwfdOaJnLCRz3DYePS4Mos5poRqEDV_1MK8dI_tbK5w2UdinrbyqhJgljd9n_Xm2t3ONsip9UnFN3R0/s400/036.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707032860323015938" /></a><br /><br />I just alternated black, white, black, white in the jar.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhssOT8tplnQgv85grOdCs425emuHIcHzmHzX3quAZHyybC2vX1L3rP9gCw-GIB2UIEU5TwfgOV1JRNaEqdMr4PNL5AwPPZjzSkpfSNyAfyNhD9mHSdnQ1Rslwc3jZNSsIHF9puOES0bs/s1600/030.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhssOT8tplnQgv85grOdCs425emuHIcHzmHzX3quAZHyybC2vX1L3rP9gCw-GIB2UIEU5TwfgOV1JRNaEqdMr4PNL5AwPPZjzSkpfSNyAfyNhD9mHSdnQ1Rslwc3jZNSsIHF9puOES0bs/s400/030.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707030847384195202" /></a><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQG_OYg120criJb7sl1UvD3IjHRwQSliufS8rin1LI5Up5rEj716Z4BBZtYuWUS9UsvOL0duIaFjr6XZgnBQS3PJu3Cq9JE7JQA1LluZTks2eFKFz39qLfXZe4Z-C2YbYgtmN6qDuBW0w/s1600/031.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQG_OYg120criJb7sl1UvD3IjHRwQSliufS8rin1LI5Up5rEj716Z4BBZtYuWUS9UsvOL0duIaFjr6XZgnBQS3PJu3Cq9JE7JQA1LluZTks2eFKFz39qLfXZe4Z-C2YbYgtmN6qDuBW0w/s400/031.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707030854629412738" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0xjpzqo0U0dauq3DxLOFJioD9l332S0_bhsT4el8seHvAXTDt-0so8reo7vjgtcg1ifnbMDKL-t2dCOIbmDmmfnXEGIY3OQf3xPXbrFy5IfiwLbp3N01zXldVO-szMsnmeNuqyFTXwc/s1600/032.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgT0xjpzqo0U0dauq3DxLOFJioD9l332S0_bhsT4el8seHvAXTDt-0so8reo7vjgtcg1ifnbMDKL-t2dCOIbmDmmfnXEGIY3OQf3xPXbrFy5IfiwLbp3N01zXldVO-szMsnmeNuqyFTXwc/s400/032.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707030859549909874" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6W2eXtgeDnn4P0KkTclvF9P_-3T9Y0MIIY6bj_ycA59h46rjMJMM5SCMrN5EVXobWTiDSh0AJTFQhA1cL5b3tjkC_PceAOg-k6g-krXQ3ExOq4GM6B1d88pCR4jBz5cSfSRqkqWdLgY0/s1600/033.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6W2eXtgeDnn4P0KkTclvF9P_-3T9Y0MIIY6bj_ycA59h46rjMJMM5SCMrN5EVXobWTiDSh0AJTFQhA1cL5b3tjkC_PceAOg-k6g-krXQ3ExOq4GM6B1d88pCR4jBz5cSfSRqkqWdLgY0/s400/033.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707030868861472978" /></a><br /><br />The oven is preheated to 400, and the jars are placed inside a baking pan, with 1/4 water inside. Just put the pan in the oven.....for about 40 minutes (check, and use a skewer to test that they are cooked throughout)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWaOFDVwaMRu-umEut_nQ7vtApVoOzRssREKimzwQEfhEG0Nv3Ik3CzjGg2np0KrK5F7QzaMFScI47Uf_BA_flmmoj-TwnFyt50sR0WbVlOyug4RUdfbEmMekwgJeI0KGBkAGl5TAQ3k/s1600/038.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsWaOFDVwaMRu-umEut_nQ7vtApVoOzRssREKimzwQEfhEG0Nv3Ik3CzjGg2np0KrK5F7QzaMFScI47Uf_BA_flmmoj-TwnFyt50sR0WbVlOyug4RUdfbEmMekwgJeI0KGBkAGl5TAQ3k/s400/038.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707032848721129346" /></a><br /><br />The result, (imperfect) zebra cakes. These will be topped with hot pink, whipped cream on the day of the party.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUuDG7ss4qHBA9AQZFwlibT-uwYl0BwN8SacWsL-ksNXZTUkItGZh-shUKh4sp8ZxC3ok8W9sc0UNXgobtWoFefLOEudyOdZgLPbNdBW7b8vd-Fr92cXAEic4wBemn9XSMtJIIbQ3H5w/s1600/034.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGUuDG7ss4qHBA9AQZFwlibT-uwYl0BwN8SacWsL-ksNXZTUkItGZh-shUKh4sp8ZxC3ok8W9sc0UNXgobtWoFefLOEudyOdZgLPbNdBW7b8vd-Fr92cXAEic4wBemn9XSMtJIIbQ3H5w/s400/034.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5707032844114308802" /></a><br /><br />Im going to put the mason jar lid on each cake, and keep them in the fridge. Then, Ill transport them to the party (with my pastry bags of pink whipped cream) and each child will get their own cake and spoon.<br /><br />It's different, festive, and fun......<br /><br />ZEBRA CAKE UPDATE: These were yummy! they look fancy inside too!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5n2kDu1QnWLHrpg6Smqt1Qhzfg2UVc4Gi_quEtz0kMNsBwsWNWacFoHXm_jzBz6VA3gqXmcvW4KaZMrP8jfX0rCT0t_GtztEdLK5Tti2_0slXfM6bz3z3DuTfiG3n5HFg7nWIDQETi30/s1600/IMG_1886.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5n2kDu1QnWLHrpg6Smqt1Qhzfg2UVc4Gi_quEtz0kMNsBwsWNWacFoHXm_jzBz6VA3gqXmcvW4KaZMrP8jfX0rCT0t_GtztEdLK5Tti2_0slXfM6bz3z3DuTfiG3n5HFg7nWIDQETi30/s400/IMG_1886.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5712924181119964626" /></a>The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-13988393362268190722011-11-23T18:51:00.000-08:002011-11-23T19:15:00.223-08:00Thanksgiving CenterpieceThanksgiving is such a warm holiday. Fall colors, cornucopias brimming with goods from the harvest, and the fragrance of warm pumpkin pies. It really is a time for remembering what matters most, and appreciating the basics of family, friends, and food.<br /><br />One of my favorite tablescapes involves mini pumpkins and gourds. I love this idea, because it's colorful, festive and EASY.<br /><br />You can use gourds and mini-pumpkins of all sizes and colors......Im keeping it simple this Thanksgiving and using just mini-pumpkins. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBs_848nI_10r3f9M3edJUNqK1lkaqdx9udnRQidW-OSqGKuBL9XfB-X516ajBak6055-QNakNkeACgdvkVSmXtHQueG-0II0V8TY2gIWMbM37UVlWecZrJqi2xmFk4F5EacccmLy1iRg/s1600/006.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBs_848nI_10r3f9M3edJUNqK1lkaqdx9udnRQidW-OSqGKuBL9XfB-X516ajBak6055-QNakNkeACgdvkVSmXtHQueG-0II0V8TY2gIWMbM37UVlWecZrJqi2xmFk4F5EacccmLy1iRg/s400/006.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678392369128661026" /></a><br /><br />You want to cut a hole big enough to fit a candle...but not too big, it's nice if the candle fits snugly. The hole doesnt have to look nice, you just want to get the candle in.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgOzNpSGJ-eR9dritFHkArqmW0ODCgKza3cdhuBue7hMFm3wX4yi1SuCrpaN6wkin4MJA8RX9-8W79-FXhLFvJWfN8PqOMKmdtg05Xkcj9r-vOFMZP6P8c9Y_eGfxrCd1v1bvVj6GPi4/s1600/007.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpgOzNpSGJ-eR9dritFHkArqmW0ODCgKza3cdhuBue7hMFm3wX4yi1SuCrpaN6wkin4MJA8RX9-8W79-FXhLFvJWfN8PqOMKmdtg05Xkcj9r-vOFMZP6P8c9Y_eGfxrCd1v1bvVj6GPi4/s400/007.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678392363510740194" /></a><br /><br />Im using plain white votives, but you can use candles of all sizes...candlesticks, votives,...mix and match warm colors.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqE5C8kFo1Zr2lnDrixd6HiGeTVkL1NJ_MlJQY8y63cQc4oTYsvH4kjFw8EGXlMqz_Y4GALJro2ZrCvk894U-9d5MSe9a1T6Np2Ld3PQfGYuoZh4pQxbF_VBpbuSQH0tE2cUdzgEWX6Cs/s1600/008.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqE5C8kFo1Zr2lnDrixd6HiGeTVkL1NJ_MlJQY8y63cQc4oTYsvH4kjFw8EGXlMqz_Y4GALJro2ZrCvk894U-9d5MSe9a1T6Np2Ld3PQfGYuoZh4pQxbF_VBpbuSQH0tE2cUdzgEWX6Cs/s400/008.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678392374815942322" /></a><br /><br />Place your gourds and pumpkins on a serving tray or platter....add additional garnishment if you would like, fall leaves, colored beads, use your imagination. <br /><br />Im keeping mine simple, on a cream colored cake platter.....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtfxzZ6KwxDkXoqzk7xf1LsBY2C0LJDNxbwi0BqEal7VaGO4VMl8voAlS8cwT33MGN7hE2P__G9m5P6ysRLP22eoR_Xd55rPDjHxOLSnlYMHkDG9EtIlMV5Dlv7DRfJoBkg9UNeaSypQ/s1600/010.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGtfxzZ6KwxDkXoqzk7xf1LsBY2C0LJDNxbwi0BqEal7VaGO4VMl8voAlS8cwT33MGN7hE2P__G9m5P6ysRLP22eoR_Xd55rPDjHxOLSnlYMHkDG9EtIlMV5Dlv7DRfJoBkg9UNeaSypQ/s400/010.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5678392383915570882" /></a><br /><br />Once the candles start burning, the wax will start to flow out of them (so make sure you are using a heat safe platter). Some will burn quicker and it starts to look so beautiful when the candles end up at different heights....especially so when using different gourds and a variety of candle sizes and colors. <br /><br />This is an inexpensive, quick way to add a festive feel to your holiday table.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-30330018275504997552011-03-05T12:26:00.000-08:002011-03-05T12:36:32.776-08:00Disney Chocolate TreatsDisney is known for fun, excitement and creativity.....so of course, the Disney <br />Chocolate Shoppe is filled with lots of delicious ideas. <br /><br />Everyone loves the goodies they are making...just look at the crowd, gathered around to watch the Disney Chocolatiers work their magic:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHoz886yhyphenhyphenbOeXLojX8gupCXQCHms6hnWCUXxUe9WTU3S7fPYzsGV3G5Yb2HCua9TwePPrISyLHlDYL4eF9mtd7LZll9-5UTClNZNn-Pfxm5FsJvuJ9eA3Y35ZYU1YJkYXB5rRibOog5o/s1600/disneycrowd.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHoz886yhyphenhyphenbOeXLojX8gupCXQCHms6hnWCUXxUe9WTU3S7fPYzsGV3G5Yb2HCua9TwePPrISyLHlDYL4eF9mtd7LZll9-5UTClNZNn-Pfxm5FsJvuJ9eA3Y35ZYU1YJkYXB5rRibOog5o/s400/disneycrowd.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580696299489698194" /></a><br /><br />If you have been reading my blog, you know that the key to amazing chocolate creations is TEMPERING - the process that allows you to dip and mold chocolate. So, of course, the Disney Chocolatiers are using their giant tempering machine....<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJinpfMnU-Io81vr8w9GMDTKAMwLTbeXwvvZSyAykDQ2aJsG6ZZ91rhheofsTJWnO5olqPc2fElYxy3SG7OsUrdjg_mxYu0TgTdplsGdJ4SjWel_wwdoU9H2b2J8sFU0ARrxbIIr6-a1I/s1600/disneytemper.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJinpfMnU-Io81vr8w9GMDTKAMwLTbeXwvvZSyAykDQ2aJsG6ZZ91rhheofsTJWnO5olqPc2fElYxy3SG7OsUrdjg_mxYu0TgTdplsGdJ4SjWel_wwdoU9H2b2J8sFU0ARrxbIIr6-a1I/s400/disneytemper.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580696297623205154" /></a><br /><br />And once you temper your chocolate, the sky is the limit.....here are some fun apples, marshmallow pops and pretzels, all done up Disney Style.....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwod3-dGoPgjtjJi1S2c4YXKN0Nh0iUkTGaMzFUaXaDMCo2yzbbefsOZ1_4j6BzrokST7KI6rnsGaeBVxib9bFCFGnAuHwc_kJXBzgo05LgkyUJtlXRyceqWZdGsSHR4_Ymnp1L26jEo/s1600/disneytreats.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQwod3-dGoPgjtjJi1S2c4YXKN0Nh0iUkTGaMzFUaXaDMCo2yzbbefsOZ1_4j6BzrokST7KI6rnsGaeBVxib9bFCFGnAuHwc_kJXBzgo05LgkyUJtlXRyceqWZdGsSHR4_Ymnp1L26jEo/s400/disneytreats.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5580696307431626658" /></a><br /><br />Ill post more soon....including the prices of these goodies....talk about a great business!!The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-57147005683663278222011-03-03T09:58:00.001-08:002011-03-03T10:01:45.645-08:00News FlashWhat a treat to see my chocolate party featured in the Orange County Register :) I want to invite everyone to "like" my facebook page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Dove-Chocolate-Discoveries-Independent-Chocolatier-Kim-Sprague/273500157286"> Kim's Dove Facebook Page </a><br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.ocregister.com/news/chocolate-290502-sprague-dove.html"> OC Register article </a><br /><br />Let me know if you are interested in having a fun chocolate tasting party.....also, Im looking for gals and guys to join my Dove team. Let me know if you are interested.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-15968432596535187332011-02-20T20:51:00.000-08:002011-02-20T20:52:22.882-08:00S'More PopsI cant believe it's been since before Christmas since Ive posted. My kitchen is still in transition, actually our floors are gonna have to all be pulled up again, and replaced....(sigh)...so it has hampered my baking fun. <br /><br />Some of you may have noticed that my latest craze is Marshmallow Pops! Cake pops are fun, but as a busy mom, I dont always have time to back the cake, add the frosting, roll the cake balls.....you know, much easier to just pop a marshmallow on a stick, dont ya think?<br /><br />My friend Gina told me about a new Marshmallow Pop idea...a S'More Pop. I signed up to bring a dessert to the Boy Scout's Blue and Gold party, and so since Boy Scouts love to camp, this S'More Pop seemed the perfect treat.<br /><br />You start out with a large marshmallow, on a candy stick:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGh9C_ADzJ5f_Cr96I1Rquz9DQfKiDevSTkBzncHtjvUq2-dfwCcaqntFfzRkA6AcV8Qo28n5N-_szGe8AUpiiZ7Bx1EqsujIccvQ0YNTkmi0Nd9IaO7hTaLR5Bd9yR0jkLXlh9jjwIos/s1600/smore1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGh9C_ADzJ5f_Cr96I1Rquz9DQfKiDevSTkBzncHtjvUq2-dfwCcaqntFfzRkA6AcV8Qo28n5N-_szGe8AUpiiZ7Bx1EqsujIccvQ0YNTkmi0Nd9IaO7hTaLR5Bd9yR0jkLXlh9jjwIos/s400/smore1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992374387220370" /></a><br /><br />Then, in typical Boy Scout style, roast your marshmallow:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsAT9rgMEcVU_85nOYOaMOKsNz5TgTvmqC3gBw5CcCpq6wGbIaTuVxOX9U1GfWaE6Rm1TPvCPyjKM-gHpy3gS3WgwHWP0CCkcoRSNLLoat_aXpcNnHmCpQmbgWlk66i3SmMdWst8BN3c/s1600/smore2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiHsAT9rgMEcVU_85nOYOaMOKsNz5TgTvmqC3gBw5CcCpq6wGbIaTuVxOX9U1GfWaE6Rm1TPvCPyjKM-gHpy3gS3WgwHWP0CCkcoRSNLLoat_aXpcNnHmCpQmbgWlk66i3SmMdWst8BN3c/s400/smore2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992372472717410" /></a><br /><br />It's up to you how toasty you want to make them:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyaK_l0xKCsvBV7JyqUd9TVJPvlIODMwMa83gyyY48v5ojd1TtVrk2s3FB8ASpX0Ijco9R5psXaxWmGVYO2tomcCDsi_qAMJ7NNJLF18QC9NS2cAYIEedm4GF_4RRK8gQPaVy9ElpHbAM/s1600/smore3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyaK_l0xKCsvBV7JyqUd9TVJPvlIODMwMa83gyyY48v5ojd1TtVrk2s3FB8ASpX0Ijco9R5psXaxWmGVYO2tomcCDsi_qAMJ7NNJLF18QC9NS2cAYIEedm4GF_4RRK8gQPaVy9ElpHbAM/s400/smore3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992383259400610" /></a><br /><br />Place marshmallows on parchment paper, so that they can firm up. I was able to make these 50 in just minutes:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLLNYR3ri7hR36pj7SwQiQvdxzj9tpBIwtp4V-3vKPtd0h-xG9ulhtraS4CNKjFnNEq7W4CgmgE5839I25S6yLAoPs5zAlO3nVJ3ca13jsBIvfDvnaxDPHjUFwbHeoWwpp68sK6S3VWs/s1600/smore4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfLLNYR3ri7hR36pj7SwQiQvdxzj9tpBIwtp4V-3vKPtd0h-xG9ulhtraS4CNKjFnNEq7W4CgmgE5839I25S6yLAoPs5zAlO3nVJ3ca13jsBIvfDvnaxDPHjUFwbHeoWwpp68sK6S3VWs/s400/smore4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992388239043202" /></a><br /><br />Graham crackers are easily crunched up:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RhICyEcHqQhPPm7xQ0yIFKRUmr8cHueh3jSJPy3Ea5L-654T4CHWHrfIfQyMTBaxGUJZi5SCqmFGxqkRuYmU34Ja7rdW6Yyqn-2VkzkU13OVmvr3hnymPN5EmGF4CuBtH7Wz26V4Hwc/s1600/smore5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RhICyEcHqQhPPm7xQ0yIFKRUmr8cHueh3jSJPy3Ea5L-654T4CHWHrfIfQyMTBaxGUJZi5SCqmFGxqkRuYmU34Ja7rdW6Yyqn-2VkzkU13OVmvr3hnymPN5EmGF4CuBtH7Wz26V4Hwc/s400/smore5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992387025988818" /></a><br /><br />Since these were for the Boy Scouts Blue and Gold party, I thought it would be fun to add some blue sprinkles. You can add any color to make them more festive, or just use the plain graham crackers:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwZVinFmcSdPLOJJHnykmfzpaSoe038Nm-o14tDfxlYhH5L8-Bb_kBr1retWHokK-Xmgz3n3bUm_ybKevZPAwEFZP6ALXsbscAUvuJolEIp-scL6LZCfDuaybmZoTTiIkP3A9To3bLHLE/s1600/smore6.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwZVinFmcSdPLOJJHnykmfzpaSoe038Nm-o14tDfxlYhH5L8-Bb_kBr1retWHokK-Xmgz3n3bUm_ybKevZPAwEFZP6ALXsbscAUvuJolEIp-scL6LZCfDuaybmZoTTiIkP3A9To3bLHLE/s400/smore6.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992638715197234" /></a><br /><br />Dip the marshmallow into TEMPERED chocolate:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qv-WIC3FsNV0awJul9GVpI5QhQavnc5HcEz2gVCA6brD9IYaEeJGqRUiIAhQ92AYxYdqV-R3v6UPUv4Non0aADH3mPfzYK_bc4me2ELtt9LMLu-8GbALYD5oQs9dAIiYD5F0xqjCzrU/s1600/smore7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9qv-WIC3FsNV0awJul9GVpI5QhQavnc5HcEz2gVCA6brD9IYaEeJGqRUiIAhQ92AYxYdqV-R3v6UPUv4Non0aADH3mPfzYK_bc4me2ELtt9LMLu-8GbALYD5oQs9dAIiYD5F0xqjCzrU/s400/smore7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992639119829282" /></a><br /><br />Now, you'll remember from past posts, that tempering is the process that allows the chocolate to harden up. This pop will not be messy. The chocolate will be solid, making it easy to put these into cello bags or pass out without a mess.<br /><br />I use my Rev 1 tempering unit, it's the size of a shoe box, and is quick and easy to use. If you are intersted in learning more about tempering, I have other videos and step-by-step pics in my archives. It's the most fun and creative dessert tool ever, I love it!!<br /><br />Dip the pop into the graham crackers, covering all the chocolate:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisisYqVh52JgBTjsxDZAtQ5WJJOot__9srmIpMuWImaY6mCNB7hOwmVq2BwYejeuOviI-yZKdU638vhXwvOee_KycGMCEaV0CVKBsbqq3RH6mSmG2Hq0WUclwS-2aqq7nKTROh6hGlao/s1600/smore8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjisisYqVh52JgBTjsxDZAtQ5WJJOot__9srmIpMuWImaY6mCNB7hOwmVq2BwYejeuOviI-yZKdU638vhXwvOee_KycGMCEaV0CVKBsbqq3RH6mSmG2Hq0WUclwS-2aqq7nKTROh6hGlao/s400/smore8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992647119687362" /></a><br /><br />This is not a frilly, girly-girl pop. It's got that masculine, "I live in the wilderness and eat S'mores" kind of look, but I promise, it's super delicious!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6aYIWyX8U3mbcLwfy54pKUfB4s8GRAantPLROy3OLIgZboiuDSpGGkIseW7ZPyvImT1g-_9TKJMflVjlWifh3n-ZhE0H9Vb9UPOMuLkfI8uWrbjlXEUVUI73tzwsmIU_sqx7vNETB1c/s1600/smore9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY6aYIWyX8U3mbcLwfy54pKUfB4s8GRAantPLROy3OLIgZboiuDSpGGkIseW7ZPyvImT1g-_9TKJMflVjlWifh3n-ZhE0H9Vb9UPOMuLkfI8uWrbjlXEUVUI73tzwsmIU_sqx7vNETB1c/s400/smore9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992651490582306" /></a><br /><br />My favorite way to serve "pops" is in a basket or container, filled with floral foam, and then covered with plastic/foil and sometimes covered with other decorative filling. It makes them easy to transport and you can have fun with the presentation:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqp3qOxsTgpBOKPvqUNEFBQ2TaxvApv24AQsHq9jzp6DEsfv3eWTmc7o-z-a4X-duK-uEoGl7bPFm9yvnONFxmQ5iVeDm2cDug-O7GbhYaqfBsZgdLmX2QgiHbiILOm2Ge0cCHMNpe3cY/s1600/smore10.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqp3qOxsTgpBOKPvqUNEFBQ2TaxvApv24AQsHq9jzp6DEsfv3eWTmc7o-z-a4X-duK-uEoGl7bPFm9yvnONFxmQ5iVeDm2cDug-O7GbhYaqfBsZgdLmX2QgiHbiILOm2Ge0cCHMNpe3cY/s400/smore10.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575992659415914034" /></a><br /><br />Im looking forward to making all kinds of marshmallow pops this Spring....bunnies, lambs, so much creative fun - and easy!! What are you going to be making??<br /><br />If you dont already, "like" my facebook page; <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Dove-Chocolate-Discoveries-Independent-Chocolatier-Kim-Sprague/273500157286"> Kim's Chocolatier page on Facebook </a> and feel free to post pics of your creative desserts.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-25853376009611493542010-12-21T10:47:00.000-08:002010-12-21T11:38:38.394-08:00Christmas BarkThe Christmas Season is such a fun time to make desserts, traditional and new. The candy cane is a symbol for Christmas, and the perfect accent for goodies. The bright colors add a festive perk to any treat, and the sweet, minty flavors sing, "Christmas" (they do!!)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQJicKr6kQHQKMRdqqbUs4Pl-JFEgnIGMNYuWIi8ATI25Fpo8yRb1jCjle-3atpLGSKLuDT3tFP5T6d51D7xHFy3_63eYdVVCUTJZuwfGXbeBcdHV-A5Qv8CjaXt3vviEHQgT9nrzzEs/s1600/candycane.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioQJicKr6kQHQKMRdqqbUs4Pl-JFEgnIGMNYuWIi8ATI25Fpo8yRb1jCjle-3atpLGSKLuDT3tFP5T6d51D7xHFy3_63eYdVVCUTJZuwfGXbeBcdHV-A5Qv8CjaXt3vviEHQgT9nrzzEs/s400/candycane.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553215047701757906" /></a><br /><br />One of my favorite things to do each year, is make Christmas bark. I usually use peppermint (red and white) AND spearmint (green and white) candy canes, together. The flavors blend well, and the red and green together are sooo pretty. This year, we are having flooding rains, and I didnt feel like going out for the spearmint candy canes, so I am making the traditional peppermint version.<br /><br />The hardest part of this recipe is crushing the candy canes. In years past I have ended up with candy cane dust all over the place. What works best for me, is to put unwrapped candy canes in a plastic zipper bag, and then wrap in a towel (paper or cloth) and lay it flat on a hard surface. I then use a hammer to pound strongly, and firmly, smashing the candy into small pieces. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEguk2eBwiU6yOcnWiechsvae0nhZpZ4ct9QC6zO-S14k8gyj5SWaFAJkHbMu2V6CR1Kihu1ClIxNDRV0zTvWzsr4fA5e5MJvgrdJaMXXiZMUJc3NOV_OpwyVRf_zuQ-qS5l5WmT8VvQ/s1600/crushedcandycane.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivEguk2eBwiU6yOcnWiechsvae0nhZpZ4ct9QC6zO-S14k8gyj5SWaFAJkHbMu2V6CR1Kihu1ClIxNDRV0zTvWzsr4fA5e5MJvgrdJaMXXiZMUJc3NOV_OpwyVRf_zuQ-qS5l5WmT8VvQ/s400/crushedcandycane.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553215051333707954" /></a><br /><br />While smashing up my candy canes, I am simultaneously tempering my white chocolate. I use the Rev 1 tempering unit. It is a commercial grade machine, about the size of a shoebox, designed for at-home use. It takes less than 30 minutes to temper up to 1.5 pounds of chocolate.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwhwVAIF5cIK3ScmRycoOM1J-_RieOBTZAbYY1IlUX3HKdt00hOn9ZtwmpTvX3Lr3uIC3ItK6mS3dB8O3wbUtaDDUhPg1tkr5ELS8mvLH106VHgnqadil6gAkLF7bG923DAAwZylOuC4/s1600/whitechoc.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRwhwVAIF5cIK3ScmRycoOM1J-_RieOBTZAbYY1IlUX3HKdt00hOn9ZtwmpTvX3Lr3uIC3ItK6mS3dB8O3wbUtaDDUhPg1tkr5ELS8mvLH106VHgnqadil6gAkLF7bG923DAAwZylOuC4/s400/whitechoc.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553215060691753362" /></a><br /><br />At almost every chocolate party, someone mentions that white chocolate is not really chocolate. I tell them that is true for most brands. The FDA has standards for chocolate (basically, that it actually contain chocolate)..and since many companies do not use real cocoa butter, they are not allowed to call their candy, "chocolate", but resort to names like, "candy coating" or "white chocolate flavored candy". Candy melts often found in the baking aisle are not chocolate at all, but flavored animal fat. This is true for the dark chocolate too....you will find "candy coatings" that look like chocolate, but contain nothing from the actual cocoa bean. Dove white chocolate is a true and legal white chocolate, using high quality cocoa butter. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA9wf_4jlWXHcxQIhP_DatbMW_SVU-t2fzOm5s79h2i1BRhtvwK0SSRTkGo41gzNJvNhyxZHYrpNuwFBMyLyk1AQXINgROnKhN4T8Vs2_duuvjs92grhOm4B5E_zWBjp4WW6BTf8qY7l4/s1600/temperedwhite.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA9wf_4jlWXHcxQIhP_DatbMW_SVU-t2fzOm5s79h2i1BRhtvwK0SSRTkGo41gzNJvNhyxZHYrpNuwFBMyLyk1AQXINgROnKhN4T8Vs2_duuvjs92grhOm4B5E_zWBjp4WW6BTf8qY7l4/s400/temperedwhite.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553217915657771954" /></a><br /><br />Anyways.....nothing but real chocolate for my bark :)<br /><br />I then pour the mixture into tempered white chocolate.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDNhVMt0g4_5TqjGHojqghKXQmH1kC5Z6U3y5ldmfjCOejWkudHRDIqGNg6vEXLRL0_KaRpktU7xNDiCrvOuAb5zjC04JxhceaIy9IlbHLMZHGGeKF2pN6m7a58Rj6RmfSq1JiW2o5Rw/s1600/candycaneadded.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIDNhVMt0g4_5TqjGHojqghKXQmH1kC5Z6U3y5ldmfjCOejWkudHRDIqGNg6vEXLRL0_KaRpktU7xNDiCrvOuAb5zjC04JxhceaIy9IlbHLMZHGGeKF2pN6m7a58Rj6RmfSq1JiW2o5Rw/s400/candycaneadded.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553217917489152818" /></a><br /><br />Mix the crushed candy cane thoroughly through the chocolate. The large chunks add bright colors, and the dust gets soaked in, flavoring the chocolate.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAJFAPWcVenJi6ScC9Jh2zwrc1SdGs_Z3WXxjx2E0d4QEZLjonyQ2NvLEODk0t8CIGKsHA2ugRZiazGjI7k0jbYf2O1FzAL7RHNzNnQeU5QA3SkebKF0I6QEZ_WPxLybAmnhf-ZnGNDo/s1600/mixbark.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLAJFAPWcVenJi6ScC9Jh2zwrc1SdGs_Z3WXxjx2E0d4QEZLjonyQ2NvLEODk0t8CIGKsHA2ugRZiazGjI7k0jbYf2O1FzAL7RHNzNnQeU5QA3SkebKF0I6QEZ_WPxLybAmnhf-ZnGNDo/s400/mixbark.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553217922062721074" /></a><br /><br />Spread the chocolate onto parchment paper. You can make it as thin or thick as you want. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQQn_pO0mOl31tRRdpJAGnx1tH4a6WUm64TPgvkEYokFSGcO0OKXHnRILJeE9tOqqkhePmPoPnc4QWziupJRGS-5b-Cz-7R3IQvR675F778zqVmqu-TJRanxgPR47Pi_OC-A_-BmghzU/s1600/barkspread.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisQQn_pO0mOl31tRRdpJAGnx1tH4a6WUm64TPgvkEYokFSGcO0OKXHnRILJeE9tOqqkhePmPoPnc4QWziupJRGS-5b-Cz-7R3IQvR675F778zqVmqu-TJRanxgPR47Pi_OC-A_-BmghzU/s400/barkspread.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553217929778893554" /></a><br /><br />Once set up, break into pieces....they look pretty in a bowl or on a platter, and can be packaged into goody bags for gifts.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW941m5_ubhslJc2dOtmOWfA5R_SWEAf5WjDua1yjdGlON-xe-qS4B9-wIGCCWjZdPbCimRvjVkSXj0YhbryHw7OGq8JLnNHsGhA9NS5514btztn6kuT07ZU4-CcUBDcZmEzjzUuIR82M/s1600/finished+bark.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 299px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW941m5_ubhslJc2dOtmOWfA5R_SWEAf5WjDua1yjdGlON-xe-qS4B9-wIGCCWjZdPbCimRvjVkSXj0YhbryHw7OGq8JLnNHsGhA9NS5514btztn6kuT07ZU4-CcUBDcZmEzjzUuIR82M/s400/finished+bark.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5553217930479079442" /></a><br /><br />Id love to see your holiday favorites...feel free to post your treats in the comments.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-51154502428053481132010-12-18T19:18:00.000-08:002010-12-18T19:58:09.953-08:00MarshmallowsIn our house, it's a holiday tradition to make marshmallows. Each year, we make batches and batches of the fluffy stuff to give as gifts (ok, we eat some too!) I used to make homemade cocoa, put it in cute containers...add a baggy of thick, marshmallows, and a plate of goodies....and deliver loving baskets of yummies to neighbors, friends and teachers.<br /><br />Since joining Dove, I have foregone the cocoa, and instead give Dove Chai Teas and Sipping Chocolates. My old recipes of cookies and truffles have been replaced with chocolate dipped candy canes and spoons, and homemade designer chocolates. And now this year....Dove has come out with gourmet marshmallows....and while it's tempting to give the Dove chocolate covered marshmallows, I simply cant give up my traditional Sprague Marshmallows. <br /><br />I have tried many variations of marshmallows over the years, and have found this recipe to work out best:<br /><br />3 (1/4 ounce) envelopes gelatin (Knox Gelatin) <br />1/2 cup cold water <br />2 cups granulated sugar <br />2/3 cup light corn syrup <br />1/4 cup water <br />1/4 teaspoon salt <br />1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or other flavoring)<br /><br />In a large mixing bowl, sprinkle gelatin over 1/2 C of cold water, and let sit for 10 minutes. The water will absorb the gelatin, and it will look like this:<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1_ZFfN7JeB5NRjlLVUw85t_tS2kvPwq37YtI_bUwbMIEjzFyHE_AAHhiE4kP4XjsTIIZo05f2A70KqsiQHiDnkCggCZERAKd981cFAmrWvS65l-56La2AcS6kxIQ6KQ6ahuDI6eJKIA/s1600/step1gelatin.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-1_ZFfN7JeB5NRjlLVUw85t_tS2kvPwq37YtI_bUwbMIEjzFyHE_AAHhiE4kP4XjsTIIZo05f2A70KqsiQHiDnkCggCZERAKd981cFAmrWvS65l-56La2AcS6kxIQ6KQ6ahuDI6eJKIA/s400/step1gelatin.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230239722984610" /></a><br /><br />In a medium saucepan, on medium heat, mix granulated sugar, corn syrup and 1/4 C of water. Continue to mix until granulated sugar is disolved. Then turn to high and bring to hard boil for one minute.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXjb0vXvm2CEB0ergaGIR1IeUTTE5ToLSGLBrc2Ibgam_vpNk7IvC3pGUL3BiPURipvrbVe5Txhd7_2oFkfkJUpjvRlAXMvgxSnehYCanRr00IS7S39xJtt9P17FITJ3Hfoc6UtInXTw/s1600/step2boil.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqXjb0vXvm2CEB0ergaGIR1IeUTTE5ToLSGLBrc2Ibgam_vpNk7IvC3pGUL3BiPURipvrbVe5Txhd7_2oFkfkJUpjvRlAXMvgxSnehYCanRr00IS7S39xJtt9P17FITJ3Hfoc6UtInXTw/s400/step2boil.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230242264944130" /></a><br /><br />Pour sugar mixture into gelatin, and add salt. Using hand mixer, mix on high for 12 mninutes.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6U4hIfBJmRAIzjNJlzSFa-8oHlMIamJUsGlddV_TUwhsZbWT1B4Fof5xtK5Z8_yxy6AU4kjVVdBgP5SfnnPXr7a47iG034MioSjz4HjbVfIMYydFVhDTbpt2PhsYOZkINzY2YAtoUEmw/s1600/step3mix.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6U4hIfBJmRAIzjNJlzSFa-8oHlMIamJUsGlddV_TUwhsZbWT1B4Fof5xtK5Z8_yxy6AU4kjVVdBgP5SfnnPXr7a47iG034MioSjz4HjbVfIMYydFVhDTbpt2PhsYOZkINzY2YAtoUEmw/s400/step3mix.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230242593940690" /></a><br /><br />12 minutes of mixing is a long time, so you might want to enlist the help of a cutie like this..... (and notice that my refrigerator is missing in the background! The house is still in an upheaval from the foundation leak back in OCTOBER..ACK!!)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-MCHoPoAUcy0zCwXa4NNI0eeM9NAmLSnEF6Z0nuOrrn4DxHISpXFJHgwLqjFXDfutolfOImyB_vGzfqjplMIMXpejbpmfGlMz_xOnnJx7GnuHneRMcPawx7FAmcuq4EH_91BsrlJiJY/s1600/myhelper.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb-MCHoPoAUcy0zCwXa4NNI0eeM9NAmLSnEF6Z0nuOrrn4DxHISpXFJHgwLqjFXDfutolfOImyB_vGzfqjplMIMXpejbpmfGlMz_xOnnJx7GnuHneRMcPawx7FAmcuq4EH_91BsrlJiJY/s400/myhelper.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230255609962066" /></a><br /><br />As you mix, the marshmallow mixture will get creamy. Here is a picture from the 5 minute mark...<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYph-4EX1aeRmmQ-hnnIHpzUby7TTrAxP09YLzZpjaN6UPwGO1PdEb7g32VJxdw1-1zcUCP6VxOhszopnWSNVUrVDjIuSXJx36QEzsbuu5fxL6izF4uHYVHa1JKUAReWhbq3dcL2Kb4bQ/s1600/step4mix5min.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYph-4EX1aeRmmQ-hnnIHpzUby7TTrAxP09YLzZpjaN6UPwGO1PdEb7g32VJxdw1-1zcUCP6VxOhszopnWSNVUrVDjIuSXJx36QEzsbuu5fxL6izF4uHYVHa1JKUAReWhbq3dcL2Kb4bQ/s400/step4mix5min.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230257330408802" /></a><br /><br />As mixing continues, the marshmallow will get fluffy and grow! Here is a picture from the 10 minute mark, notice how much higher it is in the bowl....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYm2To11y-NrV7t9J_gv_rpj_kPoiyfQoI7jmLrVs7jsGx5a2RUByWef1s7MwlcJMoV1oAdXsWRK88i0NYdVle5gTEUQmtsNbxaoBBp53L-KrIjF8sSoKPm8pXqPl_c6MIM75tCqAfG4/s1600/step5mix10min.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaYm2To11y-NrV7t9J_gv_rpj_kPoiyfQoI7jmLrVs7jsGx5a2RUByWef1s7MwlcJMoV1oAdXsWRK88i0NYdVle5gTEUQmtsNbxaoBBp53L-KrIjF8sSoKPm8pXqPl_c6MIM75tCqAfG4/s400/step5mix10min.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230597911836162" /></a><br /><br />After 12 minutes, quite honestly, the marshmallow has expanded so much that it is crawling up the top of the mixing paddles. This is the time to add the vanilla, or any other flavoring you might like (kahlua, caramel, peppermint, orange....)Make sure you mix it in well.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxaXX5RF1KjfTY16INKi2to1QxxOgYQm0gupa1VYzrkzwxY8Q63EARwDcTRP5Kh_MgP1vBaPe_SqshbCPvSu-k9RY7n2wminhDjD2yD5Q9fAFFBv5E72JS7vvM6Hi6QoQgJk5ztn4FH8/s1600/step6mixfinish.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqxaXX5RF1KjfTY16INKi2to1QxxOgYQm0gupa1VYzrkzwxY8Q63EARwDcTRP5Kh_MgP1vBaPe_SqshbCPvSu-k9RY7n2wminhDjD2yD5Q9fAFFBv5E72JS7vvM6Hi6QoQgJk5ztn4FH8/s400/step6mixfinish.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230595357193746" /></a><br /><br />You will want to cover the bottom of your pan with powdered sugar. Make sure the entire surface has sugar...this will keep the marshmallow from sticking. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmAVUr2frxPkcjs9yz2ZTwN-JMgFKMMZg_l3o5r-Dms1xgHPWeovosjMmZoRnwgn9RO66jJuZ7ieF9X_-vcb0ZnjsA4P9djV6vVZKbc1CCSjCZ2lseOe9Ru5RtiIwvQp40I9pL7N0pJc/s1600/step7panwithsugar.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSmAVUr2frxPkcjs9yz2ZTwN-JMgFKMMZg_l3o5r-Dms1xgHPWeovosjMmZoRnwgn9RO66jJuZ7ieF9X_-vcb0ZnjsA4P9djV6vVZKbc1CCSjCZ2lseOe9Ru5RtiIwvQp40I9pL7N0pJc/s400/step7panwithsugar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230605351338034" /></a><br /><br />Pour mixture into your pans. I double the recipe and use one 9x9 and one 9x13 glass pan. This yields me 40 large, thick squares.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6Z9wqj8bxHPSb0xlPrwN4pt0VaGTOooPfu9lzyaCv_pwx6ciNhbz8D-hg2EuufELH1HKx2s4kweUyk0zIlnQRN4SOlr30F6qcuUGA8EGBNE59akfp2CZRxfe2TZu8YfIJy75fY6uqvs/s1600/step8pourmarshmallow.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-6Z9wqj8bxHPSb0xlPrwN4pt0VaGTOooPfu9lzyaCv_pwx6ciNhbz8D-hg2EuufELH1HKx2s4kweUyk0zIlnQRN4SOlr30F6qcuUGA8EGBNE59akfp2CZRxfe2TZu8YfIJy75fY6uqvs/s400/step8pourmarshmallow.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230605126471218" /></a><br /><br />Cover the entire surface with more powdered sugar, and let sit out overnight.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIOGj9HRCOMB5PVZOmtilPEE_UI-KYcg60Nu5wFe4H59kuIrHiJi3My7FffJA4iPVlgsGyuOvnNNG_uEPprRh-b0s_0CdJy11MeqFDWxn9mLoPI-qSmtxmirmQlk94YYXxBy6U0QAtL4/s1600/step10addsugar.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyIOGj9HRCOMB5PVZOmtilPEE_UI-KYcg60Nu5wFe4H59kuIrHiJi3My7FffJA4iPVlgsGyuOvnNNG_uEPprRh-b0s_0CdJy11MeqFDWxn9mLoPI-qSmtxmirmQlk94YYXxBy6U0QAtL4/s400/step10addsugar.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230609195208946" /></a><br /><br />When ready, you can use a warm knife to make sure that marshmallow separates from the sides of the pans. Then cut into squares.....and ENJOY!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7Vb-ug_nX11_anovkbyWvw_8FNUl7gJsL_1X2lUNqdRpk-n15LDDtBQ9MJfmn8YQgdqPeYa6yYauXoCX0Tp9qCQZg8YUAMJuWzOLXVDcxDtQaZoioTxs9lOwh59jLiQBBtFFT8Y8-Tc/s1600/step11enjoy.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgy7Vb-ug_nX11_anovkbyWvw_8FNUl7gJsL_1X2lUNqdRpk-n15LDDtBQ9MJfmn8YQgdqPeYa6yYauXoCX0Tp9qCQZg8YUAMJuWzOLXVDcxDtQaZoioTxs9lOwh59jLiQBBtFFT8Y8-Tc/s400/step11enjoy.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5552230747181622642" /></a>The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-55749329210195606132010-10-29T13:23:00.000-07:002010-10-29T13:25:33.965-07:00Live Chocolate Demonstrationsat the Dove Choco-thon, JOIN US!!<br /><br />Log in and watch, learn and win prizes....share this with friends :)<br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/event.php?eid=169732336371102"> Chocothon info here </a>The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-48450760346843945922010-10-20T10:59:00.000-07:002010-10-20T11:30:55.730-07:00Lego pops - baking free!My son celebrated his 10th birthday this week, and it put me in a bind, as our kitchen is currently under repair (slab leak, ACK!)<br /><br />I usually bake whatever my kids want....we've had Rolly Polly Ollie, Dora, Princess, and Elmo cakes, and even Bokugan cake pops.....but without my kitchen, I was really stretched for what to make.<br /><br />Andrew loves Lego's, and wanted lego cupcakes to share with his friends at school. Since this wasnt possible, I opted for marshmallow pops, with a Lego theme.<br /><br />He was set on me making all the different faces, but to be honest, Ive yet to find a good pen for writing on desserts....the one I had barely let me put the basic face on....if you know of a good brand of pens, please share!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFw1VWyaUZaTGPZCWzAWEgqPSYhvi1eJnl8pFzWap2i9nCbee2SaGc0AyByEBVZOHQqqiuBxUwzaGbClIepX0owMzFM3mHVLVTdHLSLSEX-iPJr4ZwXWHR6gizkhXTJFvS_mydbVfYKs/s1600/legopop.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIFw1VWyaUZaTGPZCWzAWEgqPSYhvi1eJnl8pFzWap2i9nCbee2SaGc0AyByEBVZOHQqqiuBxUwzaGbClIepX0owMzFM3mHVLVTdHLSLSEX-iPJr4ZwXWHR6gizkhXTJFvS_mydbVfYKs/s400/legopop.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530191466061863874" /></a><br />Here the little guy is looking happy, simple, but happy.<br /><br />The greatest thing about this treat is that there was no baking. I plugged in my happy tempering unit, and didnt even need a kitchen. <br /><br />Remember, that when coloring white chocolate, DO NOT use a water based color, but an OIL based color. The Wilton water (gel) and oil based come in identical packaging, except for the ingredients...so make sure to double check. Water will cause the chocolate to seize; getting all clumpy and unusable.<br /><br />I started by putting the marshmallow on the stick.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJoS90EP6O-me16D88Puq8x2b6GVjMRPB1pVWx9i8RzVP4_8RrkZ5DIm5jTuXVICDuriJVKJkFf4rE_Zg46CL-R4IF4WdEfedAd1u3P26rUcfVUUVVnIAEB6OaDt266G7ECzfYYk9R1g/s1600/marshmallowonstick.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRJoS90EP6O-me16D88Puq8x2b6GVjMRPB1pVWx9i8RzVP4_8RrkZ5DIm5jTuXVICDuriJVKJkFf4rE_Zg46CL-R4IF4WdEfedAd1u3P26rUcfVUUVVnIAEB6OaDt266G7ECzfYYk9R1g/s400/marshmallowonstick.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530191484367045394" /></a><br /><br />I used Smarties to create the Lego snap<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUx2RLEGTNnEVn-Sh1sCpU4m8p6fxHnLZQQDW9tIuiieioftSz_5PSKCk6phs38t4uAb5m4agpu4LyBSPWRbGHwetpxD3JdQ9p6ERnJ6Mn-Y3PAbcLnogglKTlxVIDhrSL2HHGRv5PNo/s1600/candies.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQUx2RLEGTNnEVn-Sh1sCpU4m8p6fxHnLZQQDW9tIuiieioftSz_5PSKCk6phs38t4uAb5m4agpu4LyBSPWRbGHwetpxD3JdQ9p6ERnJ6Mn-Y3PAbcLnogglKTlxVIDhrSL2HHGRv5PNo/s400/candies.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530191468829479426" /></a><br /><br />I secured the candies in place with the chocolate, before coating the marshmallow.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjlPZ521nzTCnmD2UBsTk1n03N6vNJSZMu8SSBkkZ_IWHbjCOj8Fu0VdwX9Ffy69HMU5PTg0Y0HzdVXaul0mfQYHT9ylhQxaSv-3-ALUqRGZdoQVlQR3-Px0eJkG06VJI8mischU9S7s/s1600/candiesonmarshmallow.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimjlPZ521nzTCnmD2UBsTk1n03N6vNJSZMu8SSBkkZ_IWHbjCOj8Fu0VdwX9Ffy69HMU5PTg0Y0HzdVXaul0mfQYHT9ylhQxaSv-3-ALUqRGZdoQVlQR3-Px0eJkG06VJI8mischU9S7s/s400/candiesonmarshmallow.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530191477138854034" /></a><br /><br />To coat the marshmallow, I DO NOT dip. I get a spoon or small rubber spatula and scoop up some chocolate. I then put the marshmallow onto the spoon, and move it around til fully coated. You can use the spatula to spread in the hard to reach places and make sure everything is fairly smooth.<br /><br />The result, a plain friend. If I had a good pen, I could have created a host of expressions and characters.....but alas, it was not to be....but at least everyone was happy.<br /><br />Another way to make these treats fun, is in the final display. Because the chocolate is tempered, you can put these in treat bags, and they will NOT smear....this is perfect for making individual treats to be given away for parties.<br /><br />For my son's birthday, I placed them inside a decorative container....<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg__vGcJO-4_GIcyRgv5zke4HRFM7U5Y56EDKL-CtvC8pWQHx6lP8jGeQaJJ3g10p8v0kYwfcdBYlQTgXgFBj9dJbp39wQ9DIkWerBHpZfJprRhw3TW6iol_wQh71mwenb4DmjZsDOeGM0/s1600/legopopsinholder.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg__vGcJO-4_GIcyRgv5zke4HRFM7U5Y56EDKL-CtvC8pWQHx6lP8jGeQaJJ3g10p8v0kYwfcdBYlQTgXgFBj9dJbp39wQ9DIkWerBHpZfJprRhw3TW6iol_wQh71mwenb4DmjZsDOeGM0/s400/legopopsinholder.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530191480412626466" /></a><br /><br />Now, remember, any container will do...I have used baskets, pails, etc. for other pops....this time, I used one of the plastic bins that they use to keep their toys organized. (remember, no kitchen access leads to heightened creativity)<br /><br />As usual, I filled the container with floral foam, and then covered it...this time with foil. Each pop can be inserted into the foil covered foam...both when drying the chocolate, and afterward for the presentation.<br /><br />Once the Lego pops were complete, I put them in their spot, and then added Lego pieces to cover up the foil and add to the theme.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8a8XQI9NHbP6EoMyRpwzkGHUKQSFij6k7ldGbB0jUDWuPkGnnTq2vda1E8CdF72im9Kh-LerJPSyT9ET5oBZCfYZZOYS-Ccor7h0wozsAExZcHUVOSJtLYw9YzjcbExKtx-hYsCRJ0k/s1600/andrewholdinglegopops.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 98px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO8a8XQI9NHbP6EoMyRpwzkGHUKQSFij6k7ldGbB0jUDWuPkGnnTq2vda1E8CdF72im9Kh-LerJPSyT9ET5oBZCfYZZOYS-Ccor7h0wozsAExZcHUVOSJtLYw9YzjcbExKtx-hYsCRJ0k/s400/andrewholdinglegopops.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5530197192214601106" /></a><br /><br />Happy 10th Birthday Andrew!!!<br /><br />note: I am sorry the pics are so small, I tried to make them larger with no luck....The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-83266161182783630462010-10-17T20:35:00.000-07:002010-10-17T20:38:26.263-07:00Amazing ideas from The Chocolate AddictMeet Kat, she is incredibly creative with tempered chocolate...check out this video!! So many fun ideas!<br /><br /><object width="640" height="390"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/m8d-lxmXC2o&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/m8d-lxmXC2o&hl=en_US&feature=player_embedded&version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></embed></object><br /><br />Check out her website: <a href="http://www.thechocolateaddict.com"> The Chocolate Addict </a> she sells instructional videos too!The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-66733926105984168882010-09-12T15:58:00.000-07:002010-09-12T16:10:42.365-07:00Video making cute chocolate animalsWatch our Dove Chef making these cute animals.....so simple!! We have a huge sale on the tempering unit this month....I have so much fun with it!!<br /><br /><br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/#!/video/video.php?v=992369875659"> Fun with chocolate tempering </a>The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-58533637683775801682010-08-19T08:38:00.000-07:002010-08-19T08:41:59.271-07:00Congratulations!Congratulations to Sarah and Lynn....you were selected by random.org<br /><br />You have each won a new Smoothie Express by Back to Basics<br /><br />I know you will love this....it blends so well, and is small and easy to use. Please email me with your shipping address; thechocolatelady@cox.net<br /><br />Thanks to everyone for entering, and there will be more fun ideas and giveaways coming soon.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-83613176884134341832010-08-16T20:11:00.001-07:002010-08-16T21:02:35.839-07:00Smoothie Express GiveawayWatch video to find out more about this great giveaway....<br /><object style="background-image:url(http://i1.ytimg.com/vi/pQGq23IC4JM/hqdefault.jpg)" width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/pQGq23IC4JM?fs=1&hl=en_US"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/pQGq23IC4JM?fs=1&hl=en_US" width="425" height="344" allowScriptAccess="never" allowFullScreen="true" wmode="transparent" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object><br /><br />Giveaway rules:<br /><br />1. Mandatory to be a follower of my blog<br /><br />2. An extra entry if you are a fan of my Facebook page: <a href="http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#%21/pages/Dove-Chocolate-Discoveries-Independent-Chocolatier-Kim-Sprague/273500157286?ref=ts"> Dove Chocolate Discoveries Independent Chocolatier Kim Sprague</a><br /><br />It's that easy!! Leave a comment so that I know how many entries you have....all comments must be posted by Wednesday, August 18th 11pm PST.<br /><br />The winner will be announced Thursday morning, and must respond with their mailing address by Sunday, August 22, 2010 at noon PST, or a new winner will be announced.<br /><font style="font-weight: bold;"><br />Remember, I will be giving away 2</font>.....limit one winner per household.<br /><br /><font style="font-style: italic;"> Winner must provide mailing address in the continental USA. Dove Chocolatiers and their families, Mars employees and their families and employees of Westbend and their families are not eligible.</font>The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-13501115247097345932010-08-15T21:05:00.000-07:002010-08-15T21:09:50.492-07:00Tempering ChocolateI love to post the fun creations that I can make with tempered chocolate, and I am excited to announce that Sept. 1st the Rev1 tempering unit will be going on sale.<br /><br />They retail for $400-$700 (google it and see!!) and we will be selling them for only $154 AND that includes 2.5 pounds of chocolate and an assortment of design transfer sheets. This is an incredible bargain!!<br /><br />Check out the video below, and see what tempering is all about...and how easy it is to make incredible gifts and treats. <object width="640" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/L0zBuoGmuiM?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/L0zBuoGmuiM?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="640" height="385"></embed></object>The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-56436517953044615452010-08-06T09:59:00.001-07:002010-08-06T10:05:27.051-07:00What is a Dove Chocolate Tasting Party?When people here I do Dove Chocolate Tasting Parties, their eyes get big and their mouths starts to gape open...and then they ask, "What exactly is a tasting party?"<br /><br />Well, my friend Emmy recently had a tasting party, and shared some <a href="http://www.confessionsofapaperfreak.blogspot.com">pics on her blog</a>. We started with a little history of Chocolate, and some taste comparisons (sort of like wine tasting, but with chocolate), and then quickly moved into sharing AND SAMPLING great entertaining ideas and recipes.<br /><br />As you can imagine, it's fun....for me and for the guests, and especially for the hostess who gets lots of free dessert items.<br /><br />Thanks to Emmy for hosting this party, and for sharing it with all of her readers (and mine!)The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-48126196078425226782010-08-03T08:55:00.000-07:002010-08-03T08:58:10.934-07:00Chocolate ConventionWell, Im back from the Dove National Conference...whew!! What a busy time, full of fun and chocolate.<br /><br />Ive got lots to show and tell, including some really great giveaways lined up!<br /><br />Before I get to that, have you ever heard of a Taxi driver in Philly NOT knowing where the Liberty Bell is located? Even when the Liberty Bell was just down the street about 4 miles and 1 block over? <br /><br />I mean, if you are going to drive people are for a living, shouldnt you know your town? And if said town is "historical" filled with tourists, shouldnt you know the famous monuments??<br /><br />Anyways....<br /><br />Check back as I reveal all the goodies and giveaways!!The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-15605669091925230462010-07-21T19:17:00.000-07:002010-07-21T19:22:43.624-07:00Cutie Patootie CupcakesHey Friends,<br /><br />I have found the most adorable cupcakes....<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6Rc21qE6f2852ZKLCw8b7aPdVb7tt4SMTNGz763on33hMHSroTvSSSIvrhSl7JrTLQNjXKY98feyhfdebqJl4C9GhR31qDqX_P8CYNDyIMTHnxKK_Zsr_qCRw9RaV-njSB8-_y8H500/s1600/ginassesamestreetcupcakes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6Rc21qE6f2852ZKLCw8b7aPdVb7tt4SMTNGz763on33hMHSroTvSSSIvrhSl7JrTLQNjXKY98feyhfdebqJl4C9GhR31qDqX_P8CYNDyIMTHnxKK_Zsr_qCRw9RaV-njSB8-_y8H500/s400/ginassesamestreetcupcakes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496550011057663362" /></a><br /><br />Gina @ Cutie Patootie Cupcakes makes custom treats...whether you are looking to get some goodies for your next party, or just want to browse her ideas...check out her site; <a href="http://www.cutiepatootiecupcakes.blogspot.com"> Cutie Patootie Cupcakes </a><br /><br />She just started her blog, so become a follower, leave her a nice comment...and tell her The Chocolate Lady sent you.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-87973646226682256552010-07-19T08:23:00.000-07:002010-07-19T08:29:19.700-07:00ipad Giveaway<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNIMpVUdG1i-iwqIRSmqvrooEbFqPKPUkQ4CFL5O9CNj7zDbM2EiyMUaU4rB3Dbb8545WgsvtsE0iBT8SPiyF7DuSyMmWUadjJblOGzLreztDvxfTj6Z4ufm67776i1HQ1wYAfcHOVWeU/s1600/iPad-image.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 289px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNIMpVUdG1i-iwqIRSmqvrooEbFqPKPUkQ4CFL5O9CNj7zDbM2EiyMUaU4rB3Dbb8545WgsvtsE0iBT8SPiyF7DuSyMmWUadjJblOGzLreztDvxfTj6Z4ufm67776i1HQ1wYAfcHOVWeU/s400/iPad-image.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5495639516340381314" /></a><br />There are so many fabulous things that come with being part of the Mars, Inc. Family. Well known brand, incredible product, and lots of support. Including support in the way of incredible giveaways.<br /><br />During the month of July, Dove is giving away 2 ipads, EVERY DAY. EVERY SINGLE DAY they will hold a drawing from the previous days parties, and a lucky Chocolatier and her hostess will each win an ipad.<br /><br />Awesome!!<br /><br />And you know what is even better???? This past weekend, I WAS A WINNER.<br /><br />Yep! I won an ipad, as did my hostess!! It should arrive in a few weeks...I cant wait to play with it.<br /><br />I can win more than once....so my husband is hoping that he gets one too!!<br /><br />I love Dove!!The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-61618423173580144302010-07-13T08:09:00.000-07:002010-07-13T08:11:58.206-07:00Homemade Ice Cream - no ice cream maker needed!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9bsyNp9pDcohf1wFmzUJauJt1ZsY46bGLrX-Pz5virUc-ZXoxNHZMrKwF6MTQVdeMEc0nNnuzbkZFsRQDMiWF7nJ5bBPdUkOHPHTnP06DcmoWq-N5sUfTYYqQDugjdoggq_vzuv3Na3s/s1600/doveicecream.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 130px; height: 103px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9bsyNp9pDcohf1wFmzUJauJt1ZsY46bGLrX-Pz5virUc-ZXoxNHZMrKwF6MTQVdeMEc0nNnuzbkZFsRQDMiWF7nJ5bBPdUkOHPHTnP06DcmoWq-N5sUfTYYqQDugjdoggq_vzuv3Na3s/s400/doveicecream.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5493408791598316658" /></a><br />NO ICE CREAM MAKER, <br />no problem – make this <br />delicious creamy treat in a dish <br />in your freezer. <br /><br />Dove Chocolate Discoveries has a great recipe for homemade ice cream, and you dont need an ice cream maker! Everyone can make this easy treat!!<br /><br />Ingredients: <br />3 large eggs <br />2 large egg yolks <br />1 cup granulated sugar <br />½ teaspoon salt <br />1¾ cup heavy cream <br />2 teaspoons vanilla extract <br />¼ cup DCD Cocoa Powder <br />6 oz (3 bars) DCD Chef Series <br />Dark Chocolate, melted <br />Optional: Dress it with DCD Toppings <br />1 cup DCD Milk Chocolate covered <br />Cappuccino Biscottini, chopped <br />½ cup DCD Merlot Fudge Sauce <br />½ cup DCD Chardonnay Caramel Sauce <br /><br />Directions: <br />1. Prepare a double boiler on medium heat. <br /><br />2. Pour eggs, egg yolks, sugar, and salt into <br />the bowl, and begin whisking until <br />mixture is thick, pale, and coats a spoon <br />(about 5-7 minutes). Be careful not to <br />overcook. Remove bowl from saucepan, <br />and let cool slightly. <br /><br />3. In a separate bowl, use an electric mixer <br />to whip cream, vanilla and cocoa powder <br />to stiff peaks. Stir in melted chocolate. <br /><br />4. Add a third of the chocolate whipped <br />cream to egg mixture and mix thoroughly. <br />Gently whisk in remaining whipped <br />cream, until just combined. <br /><br />5. Pour mixture into a 9x13-inch glass <br />baking dish. Cover with plastic wrap and <br />then aluminum foil. Freeze undisturbed <br />for 3-4 hours. Scoop into ½ cup servings <br />and serve with a sprinkle of DCD <br />Biscottini and a drizzle of Merlot Fudge or <br />Chardonnay Caramel Sauce, if desired. <br /><br />Enjoy!!The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-19755040356854692662010-07-10T21:28:00.000-07:002010-07-10T21:52:57.442-07:00Decorative PlatingIf you watch Top Chef and similar food shows, you know that presentation is a big part of the meal. Today Im going to show you just a few of the pretty ways to decorate a dessert plate.<br /><br />Im going to use our Dove Raspberry and Mango Dessert Sauces. These come with a plastic bottle, making plate designs easy to make.<br /><br />To make a simple, but beautiful border, make dots around the edge of a plate, equal distance apart. You can do all one color, or use alternating colors to coordinate with your event (school pride! Fight On USC Trojans!) <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RG-AlakgUL9WWXe4IOQqN0Fhi0AepbOIMHEJ3KyZCFnBR3V3c-4VixjDFPop3Zc_TqTfwLVZN3M6rWeP_roRR6ZRPu7-EVbRfdxMWEork0SXH-c90Nn0TYZSp-HGI_UYXNjiBuRzwOE/s1600/sauceborder1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2RG-AlakgUL9WWXe4IOQqN0Fhi0AepbOIMHEJ3KyZCFnBR3V3c-4VixjDFPop3Zc_TqTfwLVZN3M6rWeP_roRR6ZRPu7-EVbRfdxMWEork0SXH-c90Nn0TYZSp-HGI_UYXNjiBuRzwOE/s400/sauceborder1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492505132534447618" /></a><br /><br />Now, take a knife or similar pointed utensil, and drag it from one dot to the next. You will probably need to go around more than once. Dont be nervous, just drag it around, and around, and around. As the dots begin to run together they make a nice frame for your dessert. You can also see how dragging through a dot can look like a heart.....so many great ways you can accent your special treats!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7lQr1Q34vg7A_ZE0Ff07Z27jpuHtnjnWOVPME7D_DCCj9pGX1mCWkDlrj9RE4ygg9d2gBC6y4xfqar1Phw8O8EkhXbauyQcWAcMEWCBinuLMkKCmirjqKGNMOiJyGVRZLRwTPRgRzokU/s1600/sauceborder2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7lQr1Q34vg7A_ZE0Ff07Z27jpuHtnjnWOVPME7D_DCCj9pGX1mCWkDlrj9RE4ygg9d2gBC6y4xfqar1Phw8O8EkhXbauyQcWAcMEWCBinuLMkKCmirjqKGNMOiJyGVRZLRwTPRgRzokU/s400/sauceborder2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492505137256730498" /></a><br /><br />This next creation looks more like a web....you start by making the circles, with a large dot in the center. Draw your knife outward, in several equi-distant points on the web.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGyYiiwrKa9gLJiV3sC-aBF6YQAXdWVECiLR5-b9iNs6vX27QDGJDk0WUtCTYBCjfiIy7sB4cuRVZNZ-NxJDt40elJVoVG2yW-q-B4J0rq61eF-d6nOr_rN_VnhyphenhyphenOKdSc2lDElFESiQUI/s1600/sauceweb1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGyYiiwrKa9gLJiV3sC-aBF6YQAXdWVECiLR5-b9iNs6vX27QDGJDk0WUtCTYBCjfiIy7sB4cuRVZNZ-NxJDt40elJVoVG2yW-q-B4J0rq61eF-d6nOr_rN_VnhyphenhyphenOKdSc2lDElFESiQUI/s400/sauceweb1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492505162637703682" /></a><br /><br />Now pull your knife towards the center, going between the lines that pulled outward, and it adds a new dimension.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCInG2dd1kP4vtuD_SlZERDElGtUKA6VFUyBrInxBbrUgpiML1MBF9-nrJqiHuvzhLVRz0beZqnuKsv6SqRRDVOwiKJuDKapjlwIPP6bhyphenhyphenON5Dib3LQ467Grd3Ord5Jcx-uw41Ub2zWc/s1600/sauceweb2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCInG2dd1kP4vtuD_SlZERDElGtUKA6VFUyBrInxBbrUgpiML1MBF9-nrJqiHuvzhLVRz0beZqnuKsv6SqRRDVOwiKJuDKapjlwIPP6bhyphenhyphenON5Dib3LQ467Grd3Ord5Jcx-uw41Ub2zWc/s400/sauceweb2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492505282950038274" /></a><br /><br />Imagine taking a fudgy brownie or chocolate cake and laying it atop that web, garnished with some rasberries and sprinkled with powdered sugar, perfect!<br /><br />A final design, is this sweet flower.<br /><br />At first glance, someone dropped an egg!!!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2_HcFOCCxWbtJoBEZjLjj-U87CWYCW3NRM5-HCLXEsQLMPkXcofVis9As2SARYY1R9kGwjA7RJ3D1iIzRDOS8VMpQ-Aw5MPq7ol0G7ckpgVM85ShkDzdkdft3rra6afsmrstlOhUZKo/s1600/sauceflower1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu2_HcFOCCxWbtJoBEZjLjj-U87CWYCW3NRM5-HCLXEsQLMPkXcofVis9As2SARYY1R9kGwjA7RJ3D1iIzRDOS8VMpQ-Aw5MPq7ol0G7ckpgVM85ShkDzdkdft3rra6afsmrstlOhUZKo/s400/sauceflower1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492505145691192866" /></a><br /><br />But begin to pull through the sauce, alternating directions, and you have a pretty poppy. When entertaining at a shower or ladies event, you can put a slice of angel food cake aside the flower, and garnish with fruit...simply beautiful.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEZQ8TwGOzjo0UpnWvpCv6gz9YY6ToDPolp2_OCBJLLOdZ3FX1MJRFI-FKGxJUsbdEiSpMPqTIqkLP8ocq9jbdmppCqKNc1NW50W1RUb9bvuhiqHy_DPKEGFd3BWervkiDuDafpnnS-g/s1600/sauceflower2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbEZQ8TwGOzjo0UpnWvpCv6gz9YY6ToDPolp2_OCBJLLOdZ3FX1MJRFI-FKGxJUsbdEiSpMPqTIqkLP8ocq9jbdmppCqKNc1NW50W1RUb9bvuhiqHy_DPKEGFd3BWervkiDuDafpnnS-g/s400/sauceflower2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5492505156157736466" /></a><br />I hope these ideas get you thinking about more ways to enhance the presentation of your desserts.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-12773588006868355632010-07-08T22:44:00.000-07:002010-07-08T22:57:04.756-07:00Chocolate Covered Potato Chips and BarkI wanted to post another favorite chocolte treat...one perfect for the men in your life, but admittedly, EVERYONE will love them!<br /><br />You can use whatever type of chips you want; tortilla, potato, even fritos! <br /><br />Im using plain potato chips, dipped into Dove Dark Chocolate.<br /><br />I start by tempering the chocolate (remember, this process allows it to harden up nicely, without adding a bunch of animal fats...so you can enjoy the premium chocolate.)<br /><br />Then, just dip the chip!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRkOAFA732429KipmMUkrwya0s5vfNaH6Qfs37fv4NUiFUMI8neeOrP_mTXmEdrSdQjVyQwFQc-hm30zra-cjLykcDAys9SrhDAWZA4-6qCpdABsTLg9Xnyh9JP_3ZiB1oM7g6CX6dao/s1600/potatochipdip.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQRkOAFA732429KipmMUkrwya0s5vfNaH6Qfs37fv4NUiFUMI8neeOrP_mTXmEdrSdQjVyQwFQc-hm30zra-cjLykcDAys9SrhDAWZA4-6qCpdABsTLg9Xnyh9JP_3ZiB1oM7g6CX6dao/s400/potatochipdip.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491780340500773058" /></a><br /><br />Lay chips on parchment paper to harden. You can make a nice platter of chocolate covered chips, pretzels, bacon....all the manly snacks!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lSA1ArM0tD3G26NozQwUqhIdRVx_VrQ0Y72loyq2OBLUBXMPUfoJqE_nYJWm7CrGrfaJ33trioDsPU4E7mLyA-4k-BpQILq9VL6y23b6B1ggZujo06xEtILw1MeemzyJH_JesNd-qm8/s1600/choccoveredpotatochips.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5lSA1ArM0tD3G26NozQwUqhIdRVx_VrQ0Y72loyq2OBLUBXMPUfoJqE_nYJWm7CrGrfaJ33trioDsPU4E7mLyA-4k-BpQILq9VL6y23b6B1ggZujo06xEtILw1MeemzyJH_JesNd-qm8/s400/choccoveredpotatochips.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491780330661833490" /></a><br /><br />My favorite part, is when you are all out of potato chips, take those crumbs at the bottom of the bag, and dump them all into the tempering unit...YES!! Just dump the crumbs into that chocolate!<br /><br />Now...mix it around, covering all the chips and crumbs....and spread it onto parchment paper. This is a potato chip bark, so make it thick, not thin. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7dPyGGw8H2QzI8qDfSNB-F8cHL68Gf_3YR80dBN9-wdAs2SnLoYS_2LltRkmX9w8v3d8Y520xpOjfhIotkI1nqAJP8gOD695DaalvDX_DULVYrk9fdsbF7Rj3lqvXYD33H2uIX-lKbF4/s1600/choccoveredpotatochipsbark.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7dPyGGw8H2QzI8qDfSNB-F8cHL68Gf_3YR80dBN9-wdAs2SnLoYS_2LltRkmX9w8v3d8Y520xpOjfhIotkI1nqAJP8gOD695DaalvDX_DULVYrk9fdsbF7Rj3lqvXYD33H2uIX-lKbF4/s400/choccoveredpotatochipsbark.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5491780349319113762" /></a><br /> <br />When this hardens, you will not believe the deliciousness of this silky, crunchy, sweet and salty treat.The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1254319882925384123.post-2195903192963942392010-07-08T12:01:00.000-07:002010-07-08T12:02:09.743-07:00and the winner is....Safety 1st Guru!! Congrats!!!The Chocolate Ladyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08977689003528629864noreply@blogger.com1