How does a chocolate fountain work?
A chocolate fountain is essentially an apparatus made from
stainless steel that serves molten chocolate fondue. A motor at
the base of the fountain is used for heating the prepared
chocolate morsels that are placed in a heating tray. A central
corkscrew pushes the molten chocolate up through a column. Upon
reaching the top of the fountain, which may be 2-4 feet in
height and have multiple tiers, the chocolate flows down. The
chocolate flows into one tray and spills on to the next till it
reaches the bottom tier. After the chocolate cascade reaches the
base of the fountain, the whole process is repeated again. The
first melting of the chocolate can also be carried out in a
microwave or a double boiler. The fountain is placed on a base
that is sturdy enough to hold around 40 kilograms of weight and
is close to a power socket.
Chocolate high in cocoa butter, such as couverture chocolate,
is ideal for use in fountains. The chocolate can be either milk
or dark. Chocolate low in cocoa butter must be supplemented with
vegetable oil; however, this hampers the smoothness and taste of
the chocolate.
Chocolate fountains are available as home and commercial
versions that can be used for a variety of occasions such as
parties, film premieres, bar mitzvahs, and product launches. A
home fountain is ideal for a gathering of around 25 people.
Chocolate fountains are available for rent from catering
companies and party supply stores. These also provide an
attendant who ensures that the fountain works properly, the
chocolate cascades smoothly, and there is no abuse of the
fountain at the hands of eager children. Tidbits such as fruit
pieces, cheesecakes, marshmallows, etc are kept around the
fountain. These can be skewered on to toothpicks and dipped in
the fountain. Generally, anything that is not liable to
crumbling will be fine for dipping in a chocolate fountain.
Chocolate fountains can be rented at an hourly rate that
includes the charges for the attendant's services and the cost
of the chocolate used. Usually, chocolate fountains are operated
for no more than two hours during a party; normally they are
functioning when appetizers and desserts are served. They can
also be an additional item in a buffet. Installing a chocolate
fountain in the outdoors is not recommended as insects get drawn
by the aroma of chocolate and breeze may disrupt the flow.