Winter Chocolate Events and Escapes

Feeling the winter blahs? You could hibernate with a cup of homemade hot cocoa. But, winter may also be a great time to enjoy one of a growing number of chocolate-related events out West. Below are some ideas.

Read more

Chocolate Chip Almond Pie Recipe

Almonds have been popular since the early Bronze Age, 3,000-2,000 BC, with evidence of their fruit trees at archeological sites in Jordan, as well as Tutankhamun's tomb in Egypt.

The almond seed that we know today has been cultivated over many thousands of years. The first of the almond species were toxic, and produced deadly cyanide upon mechanical handling. Thank goodness our forefathers bred that out of the tasty seeds we enjoy today!

This recipe is a mixture of two of my favorite things - chocolate and almonds. Although I never thought I'd eat another chocolate pie after watching The Help, I think it's safe if you're the one doing the baking!
Read more

3D Chocolate Printer Unveiled at Hershey’s

The Hershey’s chocolate company has teamed up with 3D Systems to unveil a 3D Chocolate Candy Printing exhibit at Hershey’s Chocolate World in Hershey, PA. Those who visit the store will be able to interact with Hershey scientists and the new technology to personalize their chocolates.

Read more

Low Fat Chocolate Fondue Recipe

According to Everything Fondue, chocolate fondue was invented right here in America in the mid-20th century. Although it's difficult to determine who invented it first, anyone who has tried chocolate fondue can vouch that it's an excellent fondue tradition.

Chocolate fondue is one of the last communal dining experiences - one that everyone should try!
Read more

Chocolate Romance in 18th Century France

There is a lovely little story on BBC.com featuring a man’s adventure into one of the best-known French chocolate shops in Lyon.

In this shop is where master chocolatier Monsieur Bernachon continues the French tradition of creating papillotes, which are chocolate bars filled with salted caramel, or stuffed with nuts and dried fruits soaked in Grand Marnier.

Read more

Chocolate Butterscotch Haystacks Recipe

Got the winter blues? These cheery chocolate and butterscotch haystack treats will take your mind to the warm days of summer - sitting outside on the green grass, sipping on iced tea. Thinking about summertime activities gets me through the snowy season. Well, that, and... chocolate.
Read more

Q&A: What’s the Purpose of Salt in Making Chocolate Bars?

Here's a question I recently received from a reader, "What's the Purpose of Salt in Making Chocolate Bars?"

Answer

Read more

Chocolate Pudding to Determine Israeli Vote

Here in the States, we probably take one or two things for granted. Among them, the cost of chocolate pudding! Now, I’ve seen pudding snacks range from $1-4 for a four or six pack of pre-made, pre-packaged, chocolate yumminess. And, I wouldn’t say that’s unreasonable.

In Israel, however, it’s an entirely different story. Israel’s high cost of living is one of voter’s top priorities in the upcoming election to be held in March.

Read more

Guiltless Chocolate Brownies

In the spirit of New Year's resolutions, here's a guiltless version of delicious chocolate brownies for us all. You needn't worry about whittling your middle while devouring these tasty treats!
Read more

Q&A: Can I Use Cooking Oil and Cocoa Powder to Make Chocolate?

Here's a question I recently received from a reader, "Can I use any cooking oil as a substitute for making chocolate bars from cocoa powder?"

Answer

Read more