– Chocolate fountains are a popular attraction at events and gatherings
– Critics have dismissed chocolate fountains as vessels for cheap chocolate and excessive oil
– Proper setup is crucial for a successful chocolate fountain experience
– Location should be away from air conditioning, swinging doors, dance floors, and exterior doors
– A sturdy and level surface is important for uniform chocolate flow
– Outdoor setups require protection from wind
– Melted chocolate is the heart of a chocolate fountain
– Pre-melt chocolate and store it in insulated containers to keep it at the right consistency
– Thorough preparation of equipment is necessary before the event
– Assembly of fountain components should be done carefully
– Test the fountain before adding chocolate to ensure it’s in working order
– Adding oil or butter to lubricate the blade facilitates smooth chocolate flow
– Turn on the heater switch first, allowing the chocolate and oil to combine and melt
– To prolong the life of the chocolate fountain, avoid leaving hardened chocolate inside
– Cleaning the fountain can be challenging, so be prepared with plastic bags for uncleaned parts
– Chocolate can be reused, but it should be protected from moisture, water, fruit, and air
– The article discusses ideas for dipping in a chocolate fountain and suggests a variety of foods that can be dipped
– It recommends having a mix of salty, sweet, and crunchy food items
– The list includes items such as marshmallows, cake, pretzels, cookies, fruits, nuts, and unusual items like cheddar cheese and gummy worms
– The article advises on the amount of chocolate needed for different numbers of guests, ranging from 4 lbs for 20 guests or fewer to 20 lbs for over 150 guests
– It suggests using bamboo skewers for dipping the foods
– The article mentions that the type of chocolate used is a personal preference
– The article provides instructions for setting up a chocolate fountain at a party
– It suggests using milk chocolate, white chocolate, or a combination of semi-sweet and milk chocolate chips for the fountain
– To ensure a smooth flow of chocolate, ½ cup of vegetable oil is recommended for every 5 lbs of chocolate
– The article also provides tips for melting the chocolate, either in a microwave or using a double boiler on the stovetop
– The main focus of the article is on offering a variety of different foods as dippers for the chocolate fountain, with the suggestion to provide plenty of options for guests to enjoy.
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