A step-by-step guide for making homemade chocolates in ice cube trays with delightful fillings like Gems or Nutties
Have you ever experienced that craving for something sweet but felt too lazy to bake or go out to buy it? I can totally relate, as I've found myself in that situation at times. That's when I discovered the hack of making chocolates using ice cube trays. It's an effortless and imaginative way to appease your sweet tooth. Bonus: it makes for a fantastic activity to undertake with kids or friends.
The beauty of making chocolates in ice cube trays lies in its simplicity and the endless opportunities for personalization. You can let your creativity run wild by experimenting with fillings like Gems or Nutties while also playing around with types of chocolate. It's like having a dessert shop right in the comfort of your kitchen!
Before we delve into the recipes here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
Step 1. Selecting the Perfect Chocolate
You have the freedom to choose any type of chocolate you prefer – dark, milk or white. However, remember that quality matters; opt for a chocolate that has a distinctive flavour of its own.
Step 2. Melting Techniques
There are two methods for melting chocolate – using a boiler or microwave. If you're using a microwave, it's best to heat the chocolate in 30 second intervals to prevent it from burning.
Step 3. Preparing the Ice Cube Tray
Make sure to clean and dry the ice cube tray. To easily remove the chocolates, you can lightly grease the tray with some cooking spray.
Step 4. Filling the Tray
Pour an amount of melted chocolate into each cube, then add your desired fillings and cover them with chocolate. Give the tray a tap on the counter to remove any trapped air bubbles.
Step 5. Chilling the Chocolates
Place the tray in the refrigerator. Allow it to cool until the chocolates have set (around an hour).
Step 6. Unmolding
Gently twist or flex the ice cube tray to release the chocolates. If they are being stubborn and not coming out easily, you can briefly run tap water over the bottom of the tray.
Now let’s move on to some recipes featuring Gems and Nutties.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Start by layering a bit of melted chocolate in each compartment. Then place Gems on top of the layer. Cover the Gems with more chocolate and let it chill until it sets.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Begin by melting the chocolate. Pour a base layer into each compartment of the ice cube tray. Add some Nutties to each compartment. Then cover them with the remaining melted chocolate. Allow it to chill until it sets.
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Start by melting the chocolate until it becomes smooth and flowing. Create a shell in each compartment using the melted chocolate then let it chill briefly. Mix together Gems, Nutties and dried fruits. Add this blend to each compartment. Seal everything with a layer of melted chocolate. Chill until the squares become firm, then remove them from the tray.
Making chocolates using an ice cube tray is not about the end result as much as it is about embracing the experience itself. It offers a delightful way to spend an afternoon, while yielding a batch of chocolates that can rival those found in stores in terms of flavor and creativity. Whether you're crafting these chocolates for a party as a gift or simply for your enjoyment on a night-in, they are sure to bring smiles all around.