Chocolate Fondue is a rich, velvety dessert that turns any gathering into a fun and interactive experience. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a luxurious melted chocolate dip perfect for fruits, cakes, cookies, and more. It’s an indulgent treat ideal for date nights, holidays, parties, or whenever you’re craving something sweet and shareable.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy with minimal ingredients
- Rich, smooth chocolate flavor
- Perfect for entertaining and special occasions
- Fun, interactive dessert for all ages
- Pairs with a variety of dippable treats
- Easily customizable with add-ins or toppings
- Can be made ahead and gently reheated
- Gluten-free (depending on dipping options)
- Ideal for romantic dinners, kids’ parties, or girls’ night
- No fondue pot required—can be made on the stovetop
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Semi-sweet or dark chocolate (chopped or chips)
- Heavy cream
- Vanilla extract
- Salt (a pinch, to enhance flavor)
- Optional: liqueurs like Grand Marnier, Baileys, or Amaretto
Suggested dippers:
- Strawberries, bananas, apple slices
- Pineapple chunks, orange segments
- Marshmallows
- Cubes of pound cake or angel food cake
- Pretzels
- Biscotti, graham crackers, or cookies
Directions
- In a small saucepan, heat heavy cream over medium-low heat until just beginning to simmer—do not boil.
- Remove from heat and stir in the chopped chocolate. Let sit for 1 minute.
- Whisk until smooth and fully melted.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- If using, add a splash of liqueur and stir to combine.
- Transfer to a fondue pot or small slow cooker to keep warm, or serve immediately in a heat-safe bowl.
- Serve with assorted dippers arranged on a platter.
Servings and timing
This recipe serves 4–6 people.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Use white chocolate or milk chocolate for a sweeter version
- Add a pinch of cinnamon, cayenne, or espresso powder for flavor depth
- Stir in peanut butter, Nutella, or caramel sauce for a twist
- Use dairy-free cream and vegan chocolate for a plant-based version
- Mix in orange zest, mint extract, or almond extract for a new flavor profile
storage/reheating
Store leftover fondue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of cream, stirring until smooth.
Microwave in short bursts (15–20 seconds), stirring in between, until melted.
FAQs
Can I use chocolate chips instead of chopped chocolate?
Yes, chocolate chips work well, just make sure they’re good quality for best flavor.
Do I need a fondue pot?
No, but it helps keep the chocolate warm. A small slow cooker or insulated bowl also works.
How do I prevent the chocolate from seizing?
Avoid water contact and don’t overheat. Stir gently and heat slowly.
What type of chocolate is best?
Use high-quality semi-sweet or dark chocolate with at least 60% cocoa for rich flavor.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, use coconut cream or another non-dairy alternative and dairy-free chocolate.
Can I freeze chocolate fondue?
Not recommended—chocolate and cream separate when frozen and thawed.
What fruits go best with chocolate fondue?
Strawberries, bananas, apples, pineapple, and raspberries are all great choices.
How long will the fondue stay melted?
About 20–30 minutes at room temperature; use a warming source to extend it.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, make it earlier in the day and reheat gently before serving.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the fondue itself is gluten-free—just check your dippers.
Conclusion
Chocolate Fondue is a simple yet decadent dessert that brings people together. Whether you’re dipping fruit, cake, or cookies, it’s an effortlessly elegant treat that never fails to impress. With just a few ingredients and endless variations, this recipe is a must-have for anyone who loves chocolate and good company.
PrintChocolate Fondue Recipe
A rich and silky chocolate fondue that’s perfect for dipping fruits, marshmallows, and pastries. Ideal for romantic evenings, parties, or special celebrations.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: French
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 8 oz semi-sweet or dark chocolate, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Assorted dippers: strawberries, bananas, marshmallows, pretzels, pound cake, etc.
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan over low heat, combine heavy cream and butter. Stir until the butter is melted and the cream is warm.
- Add chopped chocolate and stir constantly until melted and smooth.
- Stir in vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Transfer the chocolate mixture to a fondue pot or small slow cooker to keep warm.
- Serve with your favorite dippers and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- Use high-quality chocolate for best results.
- To thin the fondue, add more warm cream one tablespoon at a time.
- You can flavor the fondue with liqueurs like Grand Marnier, Amaretto, or Kahlua for an adult twist.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (not including dippers)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 20mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg