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Search Results for: chocolatier

3 Luxury Hot Chocolate Recipes – A Chocolatier Guide

A Chocolatier Guide to Luxury Hot Chocolate In this article we will share our best Luxury Hot Chocolate Recipes! Melt Chocolates is an artisan chocolate boutique based in Notting Hill London, and our ethos is to teach people to enjoy chocolate in its purest form. This includes hot chocolate! As we move swiftly into the cold months of November and December, we enter a new, cosier phase of living. One which centers around warmth, comfort and happiness. As the leaves turn golden and the days grow darker, we take harbour from the crisp winter air in small cafes filled with the smell of hot chocolate and cakes. You can’t beat that feeling of contentment, when you hold that warm mug of hot chocolate, the steam curling onto your face, as you sit wrapped up in a blanket watching the cold wind blow outside. This feeling is defined by Scandanavian people as ‘Hygge‘. Though it has no direct translation, we can better understand Hygge as a concept with key features or practices. Some of the ways to experience hygge is to light soft atmospheric candles, sit under a warm blanket with a book, and to enjoy a hot drink and a sweet treat! The Little Book of Hygge by Meik Wiking found that the number 1 thing that Danes associate hygge with was hot drinks. So we want to share our best luxury hot chocolate recipes so that you can recreate that perfect hot chocolate café moment at home with your friends and family. The Key to Any Luxury Hot Chocolate: Chocolate The key to a delicious hot chocolate is the chocolate! In our luxury hot chocolate recipes we use pure chocolate – not cocoa powder or hot chocolate mixtures. Make sure you choose high quality solid chocolate. We would recommend choosing any chocolate over 35%. Anything below and it risks your hot chocolate just becoming too sugary. Also good quality chocolate melts at body temperature. If you held one button of dark chocolate and one white chocolate button in the palm of your hand, the dark would melt first. So when you’re making hot chocolate, you want your chocolate to melt beautifully into the milk. So the higher the percentage on the chocolate (the darker it is) the better it is for hot chocolate! No Added Sugar We also believe in letting the chocolate flavours speak for itself, so in all of these recipes there is no added sugar. There is enough sugar in milk chocolate already to make the hot chocolate sweet! We like our hot chocolates to soothe rather than to excite, just like the hygge mentality. The feeling after drinking a hot chocolate should be peaceful, not a sugar rush! Though of course, each person is welcome to personalise these recipes as they wish! Adding some sweet whipped cream or marshmallows to make your hot chocolate perfect for you is encouraged. So, here are some simple recipes to inspire you to make the best hot chocolate you can: 1. The Fluffy Bunny Hot Chocolate: The Fluffy Bunny is the perfect hot chocolate for children, or for those of us who prefer the milkier, fluffier kinds of hot chocolate. This hot chocolate recipe […]

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Our Chocolate Toolbox – 6 Pieces of Equipment Every Chocolatier Must Have

There are certain tools or equipment every chocolatier must have. No artist can create a masterpiece without the right tools and chocolate making is no exception. While there may be certain recipes that may not require professional chocolate tools, if quality and finesse are what you’re looking for, a chocolate toolbox is essential. Whether it is for tempering chocolate for fancy desserts or creating elegant truffles and bonbons, you can get delicious and aesthetically pleasing creations with the right tools. That said, if you’re looking to buy professional chocolate tools to start your journey of being a chocolatier, you’ve come to the right place. At Melt, with our vast experience in creating delicious chocolates over the years, we know the essential chocolate-making tools every chocolatier needs. In this guide we will take you through the equipment every chocolatier must have. We’ve put together a list of basic yet essential tools that can help you progress from an amateur to a professional chocolatier and also create stunning chocolates. Let’s take a look! 1. Palette Knife A palette knife is perhaps one of the most essential pieces of chocolate-making equipment; so much so that it is a must-have for every chocolatier. This knife has a flat rounded blade that lets you smooth out or temper chocolate on a smooth flat surface to avoid any lumps. Additionally, if you’re looking to get silky smooth chocolate to add to your dessert or are simply making fancy gourmet chocolate, your work will become much easier with this equipment. In the chocolate-making process, many things can go wrong and creating smooth cocoa treats is not as easy as it seems. However, with a palette knife, you can ensure glossy and smooth chocolates that look as delicious as they taste. 2. Chocolate Moulds Once the chocolate is tempered and smoothened out, filling it in a mould is essential to let it form a proper shape and set well. With delicate treats like bonbons, truffles, or even praline cups, a mould is necessary for the creation process. From intricate patterns and swirls to simple lines, there are many different designs and types of chocolate moulds that you can opt for. If you’re looking to make chocolate bars, there are special moulds for them that you can easily find online.   3. Different Sized Spatulas A handy tool in most culinary pursuits, a spatula is another must-have chocolate making equipment. From stirring the chocolate in the vessel to emptying it in the moulds, a spatula is very helpful as it prevents any ingredient from sticking to it. This means that you can easily transfer your chocolate onto the flat surface or in the mould without creating a mess. Moreover, they’re extremely easy to clean making them a great piece of equipment.     4. Thermometer For any dessert or sweet treat that requires cooking and tempering, a thermometer is a must-have. Since many of us are likely unable to properly understand when the chocolate mixture has reached the ideal temperature, a thermometer can do the job for you. Each chocolate type has different temperatures; dark chocolate needs to be at 28° whereas milk chocolate is ideal at 27-28°. With a thermometer, you can ensure you cool down the mixture and set it at the right time to get a good texture on […]

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A Brief History of Chocolate: From the Aztecs to Today

The History of Chocolate Have you ever wondered where chocolate comes from? How it is made? What ingredients are used? The history of chocolate is a long, complicated one, intertwined with the history of Spanish colonialism in the Americas. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the history of chocolate and how it has evolved over the centuries. We will also explore some of the key milestones and innovations that have shaped the chocolate industry, as well as the cultural and economic impact of this delicious food. So grab a bar of your favorite chocolate and join us on a journey through the rich history of this beloved treat. The origins of chocolate in Mesoamerica So how did chocolate start as a bean growing on the cocoa plants in South America to a luxury chocolatier in London? The history of chocolate dates back to the ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, where it was consumed as a bitter beverage and used in religious ceremonies. This bitter cocoa beverage was made by mixing ground cocoa beans with water and spices – such as chilli and vanilla. It was often served cold and frothy, and was enjoyed by both the elite and common people. Mayan Lord featured with a frothy cacao drink (Chocolatl) The Mayans and Aztecs believed that chocolate had medicinal and spiritual properties, and it was often used in religious ceremonies and as a tribute to the gods. In the legends of the Aztecs, the cocoa tree was brought down from the mountains by the God of sun, wind and air, the feathered serpent Quetzalcoatl. Quetzalcoatl as depicted in the Codex Telleriano-Remensis The the cocoa tree was stolen by Quetzalcoatl from paradise where all the other gods lived and planted by him in Tula, Mexico. Hence, it was believed that Quetzalcoatal taught humans, more specifically the Toltecs, how to use cocoa beans to make chocolate. Because of this, chocolate was often associated with Quetzalcoatl and other gods, becoming precious currency and part of religious iconography. Melt’s Aztec Fire Chilli Chocolate Bar It is said that the Toltecs where transformed into powerful and influential people as a result of the delicious and energising cocoa beverage! The arrival of the Spanish and the introduction of sugar The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century marked a turning point in the history of chocolate. The Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, were the first Europeans to encounter chocolate, and they quickly became enamored with it. When the Spanish conquistadors first encountered cocoa, they adapted the preparation methods to include sweetening and flavoring with spices like cinnamon, and served the beverage warm. On occasions cornmeal and hallucinogenic mushrooms were also added to the drink. This differentiated the chocolate consumed by the Spanish from that consumed by the native Mesoamericans. This pattern can be seen in other foods consumed by both groups, but none achieved the global popularity and demand of chocolate. Artistic depiction of Hernan De Cortez and Montezuma Back in Spain the Spanish nobility and Catholic priests were quick to embrace the new and exciting beverage of chocolate. They used it to sustain themselves during religious fasts, and for nearly a century, Spain kept the secret of cacao beans to […]

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Magnolia Magic: Blooms of Notting Hill

Magnolia Magic: Blooms of Notting Hill As spring unfurls its delicate petals, London’s charming streets come alive with bursts of colour and fragrance. Amidst the hustle and bustle of Notting Hill, there’s a particular spectacle that draws both locals and tourists alike—the magnificent magnolia trees in full bloom. Every year, as winter bids its farewell, these majestic trees transform Notting Hill into a canvas painted with shades of pink, white, and cream. The air is filled with a sweet, intoxicating scent, reminiscent of vanilla and citrus, enticing passersby to pause and revel in nature’s splendor. Strolling through the winding streets, one can’t help but be captivated by the sheer elegance of the magnolia blossoms. Their large, cup-shaped flowers stand out against the backdrop of Victorian facades and leafy greenery, adding a touch of romance to the neighbourhood. The sight of these blooms invokes a sense of renewal and hope—a promise of brighter days ahead after the dreariness of winter. It’s as if Mother Nature herself is celebrating the arrival of spring by adorning Notting Hill with her finest jewels. Local residents eagerly anticipate the annual spectacle, marking it as a highlight of the season. Some even organize neighborhood walks or picnics amidst the blooming magnolias, creating cherished memories with friends and family. Photographers flock to Notting Hill during this time, aiming to capture the ethereal beauty of the magnolia blooms against the backdrop of iconic landmarks like Portobello Road or the colorful houses along Lancaster Road. Their snapshots serve as timeless reminders of nature’s fleeting yet enduring beauty. For visitors exploring Notting Hill for the first time, stumbling upon these blooming magnolias is like discovering a hidden treasure—a delightful surprise that leaves a lasting impression. It’s an experience that beckons them to return year after year, eager to witness the magic of spring in full bloom once more. But beyond their aesthetic appeal, the magnolia trees of Notting Hill hold a deeper significance. They serve as a symbol of resilience and perseverance, weathering the changing seasons year after year, their blossoms a testament to nature’s enduring strength. As the days grow longer and warmer, the magnolia blooms gradually give way to lush green foliage, marking the end of their fleeting reign. Yet, their memory lingers, etched in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to witness their splendor. In Notting Hill, spring isn’t just a season—it’s a celebration of life, beauty, and the unyielding spirit of nature. And amidst it all, the magnolia trees stand tall, silent witnesses to the passage of time, their blossoms a reminder to cherish each moment and find joy in the simplest of pleasures.   Inspired by these beautiful Magnolia trees Melt’s artisan chocolatiers have created this perfect Magnolia Gift Set with our Magnolia Easter egg and our best-selling bonbons crafted using the finest ingredients, resulting in a rich and decadent taste that will tantalize your taste buds. Hand-painted Magnolia Flowers The packaging has been designed to represent the magic of the blooming Magnolia flower. Hand-painted in-house, Melt wanted to highlight the subtly of the pink and cream petals, mirroring the raspberry and vanilla flavours of the easter egg. This year experience the ‘Magnolia Magic: Blooms of Notting Hill’ […]

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The Best of Melt Chocolates’ Luxury Easter Eggs of 2024: A Ranking

Award-Winning: Best Luxury Easter Egg 2024 Easter is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than indulging in the finest luxury chocolate eggs from Melt Chocolates? We have handpicked and tasted our best luxury Easter eggs for 2024, and here are our top recommendations and why we recommend them: Lotus Easter Egg (£69.99) Melt Chocolate’s Lotus Easter Egg redefines luxury with its decadent fusion of flavors and inspiration drawn from The White Lotus. From the rich depths of dark chocolate with hazelnuts to the refreshing burst of coconut, every bite promises an unparalleled experience. With its exquisite design reminiscent of a blossoming lotus flower, this indulgent egg is a true treasure trove of chocolate bliss—a must-have for discerning connoisseurs seeking the ultimate Easter indulgence. ‘There’s plenty to discover in this supersize egg, making it great for sharing. It’s got a hefty price tag at £69.99, but also adds up to a whopping 1kg of chocolate – actually making it impressive value per gram for a luxury chocolate, all handmade in London.’ – BBC Good Foods Thank you to BBC Good Food who rated our egg among the ’17 best Easter eggs to buy 2024, taste tested’, Town and Country and to Square Meal for rating the Lotus Egg one of the ‘The best Easter eggs 2024‘. 2. Coconut Easter Egg (£34.99) If you are looking for a taste of the tropics, the Coconut Easter egg is the perfect choice. Made with creamy 38% milk chocolate and desiccated coconut, this egg will transport you to a sunny island. The coconut flavor is subtle, and the egg is not too sweet, making it a great option for those who prefer less sugary treats. ‘If you’re that person that eats all the leftover Bounty bars from a box of Celebrations, this coconut egg could be just what you’re looking for this Easter. Bonus points to beloved Notting Hill chocolatiers Melt, who’ve done a bang up job of making this look like a real coconut.’ – Square Meal ‘The best Easter eggs 2024’ 3. Magnolia Easter Egg (£69.99) Melt’s Magnolia Easter egg – it’s like unwrapping a blooming flower, but way tastier! Pull up the lid and watching the petals unfold, revealing 14 luscious chocolate wedges infused with vanilla, raspberry, and a hint of rose. And the best part? The packaging is hand-painted to capture the dreamy vibes of those pink and cream Magnolia petals. It’s like a taste of springtime luxury in every bite!     4.  Sea Salt Milk Chocolate Easter Egg (£27.49) The Sea Salt Milk Chocolate Easter egg is a classic and never disappoints. The 45% milk chocolate has a perfect balance of sweetness and rich cocoa flavor, enhanced by the delicate flakes of Maldon sea salt. The packaging is sleek, and the egg is a great value for its size. 5. Acorn Nut Easter Egg (£38.49) For those who appreciate nutty flavors, the Acorn Nut Easter egg is a must-try. Made with 50% dark chocolate, roasted almonds, this egg has a lovely crunch and a rich, nutty taste. The packaging is also stunning, with an elegant crown of acorn on top of the egg. This Easter egg was recommended by Olive Magazine Best Luxury Easter […]

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Experience the Power and Pleasure of Chocolate : The definitive guide to Melt’s Award-winning Experiences

Experience the Power and Pleasure of Chocolate “The noblest pleasure is the joy of understanding.” Leonardo Da Vinci I. Learn about Chocolate Learning is the only thing the mind never exhausts, never fears, and never regrets. So join a melt experience and learn all about chocolate. Chocolate is both the best known and the least known food on earth. Chocolate covers an enormous range of different types of food, from 100 per cent raw cocoa all the way to white chocolate, which has greater similarity to a sweet than it does to proper chocolate. From a bitter-tasting live drink, with energising and aphrodisiacal properties, used for religious rituals to a sweet creamy caramel chocolate made by machines in a modern industrial factory. The variety of chocolate is actually quite astonishing. Chocolate also has changed dramatically over time and by location – think of American chocolate versus European chocolate. The journey chocolate takes from the Amazon to your kitchen table is amazing – but little understood or known. Melt’s Chocolate Path follows this journey all the way to Chocolate transcendence. You will see for yourself the transformation of chocolate from “bean-to-bar” or “bean-to-bonbon”. Enjoy learning about chocolate. Melt’s experiences and workshops aim to teach you all there is to know about chocolate whilst you enjoy tasting it and whilst you enjoy transforming it in a “hands-on experience” and practical experience. . Chocolate Immersion Travel through time and taste history Lets wind back the clock to a time when chocolate was worshipped – when chocolate was considered sacred and was the preserve of only society’s elites – high priests and the Royal Courts. The process of transforming chocolate from bean-to-bar will have a life changing impact on you. Many of our clients leave our classes with lessons that will last a life time. “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn” – so immerse yourself in chocolate and learn how to achieve transcendence through chocolate. Over 800 5***** Star Reviews Melt chocolates has over 800 5 star reviews for the “Best Cookery Classes in London” – the ”Best Experience in London” and a “magical chocolate workshop” in Notting Hill. Classes which will explain and teach you all about the various forms of chocolate and how chocolate is made. What our guests say about melt’s experiences. In their words: “The chocolate tasting was exceptional, an experience which has left me with stories that I will continue to tell people for a very long time. “ .The bonbons we made were put in beautiful boxes to take home with us. Overall, a perfect experience for a date night. “a deliciously different thing to do! Would highly recommend! Absolutely amazing!!!” “I had a fabulous morning- felt like a kid again” We learned about History of Cocoa with a great French man. What a passion !!!! I NEVER WILL FORGET THIS 1 HOUR OF MY LIFE. THANKS FRENCH TEACHER AND ALL THE GREAT STAFFS. THE HOT CHOCOLATE WAS THE BEST I HAD IN LIFE. “A fun, unique culinary experience. I never knew so much about chocolate.. A hands on class, literally chocolate by immersion. We made beautiful, artistic chocolates, and then we got to […]

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The ‘Botanical Book: Chocolate and Nut’ Collection

Introducing NEW Botanical ‘Book of Nuts’: Chocolate and Nut Collection   Perfect Gift for Gardeners and Plant Lovers   “A Chocolate Book is A Dream You Can Taste” Melt is proud to introduce our NEW Botanical Book ‘The Book of Nuts’ collection. This Chocolate and Nut collection was inspired by the incredible botanical illustrations of the English Biologist Marianne North which can be viewed in Kew Gardens. This Botanical gift box contains the most delicious natural and organic flavours handmade by our specialised chocolatiers in the heart of London. Nut Filled Bars enrobed in delicious chocolate behind each illustration. If you are looking for gift ideas for gardeners, then we have created the perfect edible garden chocolate selection. Behind each botanical illustration there is delicious, luxury chocolate bar that contains fresh and organic nut fillings. Melt wishes for you to admire the beauty of the nuts in all their floral glory, while simultaneously enjoying the decadent chocolate and nut flavours. We have designed this chocolate and nut book so that you can have the best chocolate tasting experience right in the comfort of your own home! Melt’s ethos is eco-friendly and sustainable, so this botanical book is completely plastic-free. Discover the incredible flavours of the divine chocolate and nut pairings, while learning this the name, origin and a brief story of the nut. This illustrated botanical collection perfect gift for gardeners!       Chocolate Tasting Experience: Nut and Chocolate Pairings   Experience the bounty of nature   Melt will take you on a botanical journey of exploration, discovery and flavour.  The Romantics discovered that nature was sublime – so enjoy the taste of nature’s nutty bounty enrobed in decadent chocolate. Experience the bounty of nature as Melt has search for the best nut and chocolate pairings.   Tasting Guide While enjoying eight exquisite nut and chocolate combinations handmade by our world-class chocolatiers, join Melt on a botanical journey through time to exotic and wonderful locations. By eating our chocolates, whether with your friends, family or by yourself, we want you to experience the wonder of discovery of these plants, their exciting flavours, exotic locations and particularly their sensational taste. Every bite will transport you to a new and exciting world of sensory delight…Imagine you are in the lush forests and jungles where these nuts grew from flowers to scrumptious treats.   Botanical Beauty At Melt, our mission is for you to experience chocolate, not just enjoy its amazing taste. This hand-illustrated book encourages you to explore the natural beauty and extraordinary flavour of plants. The Melt Chocolates creative team has hand-painted eight beautiful botanical illustrations, each featuring a gorgeous nut. Paired with each illustration is an amazing chocolate bar filled with the divine nut Melt has illustrated in the painting.  Each illustrated painting comes with a description which allows you to rediscover the wonder of the natural world.   Botanical History of Nuts At Melt Chocolates, we believe the more you know about what you are eating the better! The incredible botanical history and origin of these nuts helps to elevate the elements of flavour as you taste your chocolate and nut pairings. It helps to imagine where they are from, what environment they thrive […]

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Guilt-Free Chocolate: The Ultimate No-Sugar Christmas Gift Guide

No-Sugar Christmas: Navigating Festive Treats with Melt Chocolates Indulgence without compromise, delight without guilt – that’s the essence of a sugar-free Christmas at Melt Chocolates. For those navigating a sugar-conscious lifestyle or seeking thoughtful gifts for friends with dietary restrictions, our exquisite range of sugar-free delights is a revelation. Amidst the festive cheer, it’s possible to relish the richness of chocolate without the sugar overload. Our collection boasts an array of enticing options tailored to diverse tastes. Whether your preference leans towards the robust intensity of dark chocolate or the creamy allure of milk chocolate, Melt has crafted a tantalizing solution for you. For a delicious no-Sugar Christmas Gift, consider our Milk Chocolate Sugar-Free bar, an embodiment of creamy indulgence without compromising on taste. Its rich, velvety texture and nuanced flavors make it a delectable treat for anyone watching their sugar intake. Equally enticing is our Dark Chocolate Sugar-Free bar, exuding bold flavors and embodying the finest cocoa, a testament to luxury without the sugar rush. For those with a penchant for nutty flavors, our sugar-free milk chocolate hazelnut bar is a divine choice. Packed with the goodness of hazelnuts and the smoothness of sugar-free milk chocolate, it’s a gift that embodies both taste and health. Explore the Sugar-Free Chocolate Library, a treasure trove of delights crafted to redefine the boundaries of sugar-free indulgence. From bars to delightful confections, each offering echoes our commitment to quality, taste, and wellness. The benefits of indulging in sugar-free chocolates extend beyond mere taste. Scientifically proven, these treats offer an array of advantages that go beyond satisfying a sweet tooth. From improved mood and mental clarity to aiding weight management and nurturing heart health, our sugar-free chocolates are a symphony of taste and wellness. This Christmas, elevate your No-Sugar Christmas Gift experience with Melt Chocolates’ sugar-free delights. Embrace the joy of giving while ensuring your loved ones revel in the pleasure of luxurious chocolate, guilt-free and brimming with healthful goodness. Our sugar-free products can be ordered on Amazon or on Deliveroo if you are based in London. All of our chocolates our hand-made by professional chocolatiers in the heart of Notting Hill, London. Fresh and sublime our chocolates are handcrafted in Notting Hill by Melt’s world-class chocolatiers. Our Luxury Chocolate Best Sellers are boxed in beautiful minimalist-designed packaging which is plastic-free and sustainable to help our environment. […]

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