Monday, July 30, 2012

A Brief History of Chocolate

Chocolate has been a favorite of man for thousands of years. Ancient people brewing the seeds of the cacao tree into a yummy beverage was the beginning of the wide assortment of chocolates that we enjoy today.

Once chocolate was discovered by European conquests, it became a treat only the wealthiest could afford. Not only was chocolate expensive, but it was bitter. Sugar and spices used to sweeten it were expensive too and out of the common man's reach. It was in the 1800's that the industrial age and mass production made chocolate candy affordable for everyone.



Chocolate candy became a big hit in stores in the form of the candy bar. It took its place proudly on the general store shelf next to the gum drop, hard candy and candy cane bins of the day. From that meager beginning, the varieties available today are mind boggling. Chocolate candy is available in many different flavors, shapes and with limitless ingredients. Some ingredients such as nuts and fruits are complimentary to the flavor and texture of the chocolate and left whole or diced inside the candy bar. Spices and other flavorings are also added to enhance the chocolate or add interesting flavor notes. Some people can taste a story in their chocolate candy. The flavor medley tells them through their tongue what region of the world each ingredient came from. Travel by chocolate!



Chocolate can also be enjoyed either inside a candy coating or as a coating itself over other yummy treats such as ice cream.

Today many people buy candy online. With the invention of the World Wide Web, you can snack on exotic chocolate candy delicacies made anywhere in the world. Innovations in chocolate recipes and shipping ensure you receive your chocolate candy in perfect condition.

There is also a wide variety of chocolate molds and candy making accessories for you to try your hand at making your own chocolate candy. It's a fun way to get children involved in the kitchen and also a great way to make personalized gifts. The possibilities are endless in the flavors and ingredients to test. A lot of very successful candy companies started this way, as a hobby in a home kitchen.



Who knows, perhaps one day when that chocolate connoisseur boots up his pc and logs on to buy candy online, the website with the interesting flavors to sample that he chooses to order from may be your own!


Chocolate Is Great

It seems that everyone likes chocolate, it has an effect that everyone likes, and a taste the no one ever forgets. There is a chocolate lover in all of us. Everyone has their own favorite flavor of chocolate. For some, their favorite flavor is very sweet. Others desire a more dark and bitter taste. Some people crave white chocolate. It doesn't matter what your chocolate taste are, there is a chocolate out there perfect for you. The aroma of chocolate tantalizes taste buds, and the creamy melt-in-your mouth of sweet chocolate can make a chocolate lover's day.

Chocolate is a wonderful thing to give to someone you love, there are chocolate gifts for someone. On special days, anniversaries and Valentine's day, you can show that special someone how special they really are with a chocolate shaped hearts or roses. Birthdays can be celebrated with an extravagant chocolate cake.

Anniversaries can be celebrated with more romantic chocolate gifts. Chocolate gifts are a perfect way to tell some one how much you care.

Some businesses choose to promote themselves by giving away chocolate gifts. Today, some chocolate bars can be made that are imprinted with your business card and you can give your associates a very sweet treat. Chocolate is even molded and packaged as a CD, or other shapes that you can create for your prospective clients. That too is a very memorable chocolate gift.

Chocolate gifts are given in all shapes and sizes. The imagination is the limit and the possibilities are endless in the ways you can shape chocolate and tell someone they are special. From Valentine's Day hearts and roses to Easter rabbits and chickens to Christmas trees and gifts, every occasion can be celebrated with chocolate.

Chocolate gifts are used to celebrate weddings with molder chocolate rings. Baby showers can be celebrated with chocolate pacifiers. Pretzels are coated with chocolate. Caramels are surrounded by it. Chocolate comes in every shape and size.

The great thing about chocolate is the variety. If you're looking for gift baskets you can find chocolate gift baskets with white, milk or dark chocolate. No matter what your preference is, you will certainly spot it online. It's time to ditch the insecurities that go along with all those bogus gifts you spend loads of time picking out, but aren't even certain if the receiver will like them. You need chocolate gift baskets. These tasty, yet fun gifts work for virtually anyone. If you're not sure where to browse for fine chocolate gift baskets, pop open Google and punch in a few key words. You will be swimming through vast selections of chocolate gift baskets in no time at all. But, you have to be careful, or you will end up wanting them all for yourself.



Because of the huge diversity and choice you can decide not only what shape you want your chocolate gift to be, but also what flavor, and sometimes even color. Chocolate candies are produced world wide. Imported chocolates may be one way to please a chocolate gourmet. Also, chocolate may be flavored with nuts, fruits, or other flavorings.

Today, some even say that chocolate has some medical benefits. While this is really great news for chocolate lovers, I guess we will all keep eating chocolate with or without the health benefits involved… eat chocolate and enjoy!.


Chocolate Gift Baskets Can Be A Wonderful Idea

With the love that majority of people have for coffee, it becomes very difficult to find anyone who doesn't love coffee.

That deliciously sweet, creamy and rich treat that is great for all occasions is now the love of so many people. These days there are now an endless collection of chocolate products out there that you can choose from.

For those who desire fudge brownies, they can get what they want. For those who desire decadent cakes or even grande mocha latte, they can get what they want out of chocolate. This wonderful treat called chocolate is now a delight all over the world.



It is now one of the best gifts to give at anytime of the year. And for those that want to give gifts of such, they absolutely need chocolate gift baskets.

They are now incredibly very important if you want to give that present of chocolate. The fact that there are several chocolate gift baskets to choose from, this is a real delight.

For those who are looking for the ideal chocolate gift baskets, they should go online. There are now variety of chocolate gift baskets online to choose from. I don't know about you, but one of my favorite brands of chocolate is the Godiva. Of course you might think it is a bit pricy, but I am not in total agreement with that idea.

You see, I spent just 50 bucks on a pound at one time and enjoyed it. If you are searching for the best selection of lovely chocolates, Godiva is it. Take your time and check out their store or visit them online. They take their time with packing their chocolate.

It is as if each chocolate is specially packed with a divine flavor. What better thing to give away to someone special as a gift than chocolate from Godiva.



What I like particularly about chocolates is the variety. For the chocolate gift baskets, there are lots of varieties to choose from. If you want the solely dark chocolate, you will get it. You can also get chocolate gift baskets that have only milk or white chocolate too.

Fact is - no matter the kind of chocolate you want; you can get it, especially online. Forget about those security fears you have about sending gifts and whether the receiver will love them or not.

With chocolate gift baskets, you are assured they will. If you are still in doubt of the particular website to visit for the chocolate gift baskets of your choice, go online and search using Google. Simply enter the keyword of your choice and conduct your search.

You will be presented with an avalanche of sites and chocolate gift baskets to choose from. I hope you don't end up needing all that you find. If you do, your pocket will be the victim.


Healthy Chocolate is NOT an Oxymoron

Healthy chocolate? How can that be? After all, we've been trained to think of chocolate as a guilty indulgence at best, and as a health disaster at worst. Yet there is a large body of scientific evidence that supports the notion that chocolate is not only harmless, but that it can actually contribute to health and longevity.

There's Chocolate and Then There's Chocolate

That's not to say that all chocolate is created equal. If you think that those sugary confections you find in candy stores and on grocery store shelves are nothing but empty calories, you're not far off the mark. Chocolate candies are often full of the refined sugars, milk fats, and hydrogenated oils that are important to avoid.

But those unhealthy ingredients are masking a dark healthy chocolate that is filled with antioxidants, flavonoids, and amino acids that can contribute to health and well being. Unprocessed cocoa has antioxidants that can slow the aging process and cellular decay, as well as flavonoids that have been shown to be beneficial to cardiovascular health. These cardiovascular benefits include improving blood flow, lowering LDL cholesterol, and reducing blood pressure. Dark chocolate also has essential amino acids like tryptophan, as well as alkaloids like theobromine and phenethylamine, all of which can help elevate and regulate moods.

Latest Trends in Healthy Chocolate

As the concept of healthy chocolate gains momentum, products are being brought to market that combine the best qualities of chocolate with those of other ingredients. The mixture produces a high-powered blast of benefits with all of the intrinsic satisfaction that eating chocolate brings.

What makes healthy chocolate different from the kind you find within candy bar wrappers? First, there are no sugars, milk fats, or hydrogenated oils. Second, it has not been subjected to what is called the Dutch process, whereby an alkali is introduced that all but destroys the antioxidants. Rather, it is cold pressed to preserve the antioxidants and nutrients. Third, it is often combined with Acai berries and blueberries to further boost its antioxidant properties - so much so that some products give you the equivalent of a half-pound of spinach or three-quarters of a pound of broccoli in one small nugget. Fourth, the dark chocolate has no trans fat, no wax, and no fillers.

Healthy Chocolate as a Weight Loss Tool

Unarguably, it's counterintuitive to think of chocolate as being a central component of a weight loss plan. But healthy chocolate - without the additives, sugar, and milk fat - can, indeed, help you lose weight. Eating a nugget with a glass of water about a half our before a meal can quell hunger and satisfy chocolate cravings. You'll eat less at meals and get a boost of nutrients in the process. Similarly, eating a nugget as a snack is a healthy alternative to more calorie-laden fare.

The bottom line is that you can incorporate healthy chocolate into your diet without even a twinge of guilt. What a relief and a blessing!


Scientists And Nutritionists On Battle For Chocolate

Scientist and Researchers will always tell people that eating chocolate is good for the heart since it has the ability to decrease the LDL or known as bad cholesterol and it will promote a good blood flow by reducing the blood pressure level to a person associated with high blood pressure.

However, Nutritionists will always argue in this sentiments and results. As for them, they have a basis why would they argue for those studies. For instance, some substances, components and compounds of a chocolate is said to be in harm for body's health. A compound called Anandamide affects the brain's receptor making a feeling of being "high" a kind of brain receptor common to those of taking marijuana. Being intolerance is also a factor that is considered here which can be caused by a compound called Exorphins. This is like an external morphine substance in chocolate in some psychological sequel or even a gut problem.

They also believe that chocolates have several biologically active constituents like Biogenic amines, Methylxanthines, and Cannabinoid-like fatty acids. All of those mentioned substance has a potential to cause any abnormal behaviors and even psychological sensations that are similar to those of any other addictive and intolerable substances.

Of all the above mentioned consequences and harmful effects of chocolate to the body, the study never ends there. Scientists wanted to prove that chocolate is in no harm when only taken with the right amount. Here's what they found out which they use against the Nutritionist for a sure win in such argumentation. Research shows, that a cocoa powder, milk chocolate, and a dark chocolate have a high Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity values compared to any other well known foods, such as blueberries and prunes. This Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity values works to measure the power of an antioxidant substance present. An antioxidant is a kind of substance that protects the body against harmful free radicals by producing peroxides and oxygen. To name some are beta-carotene, vitamin C, and alpha tocopherol. Research shows that there are more than 13,000 Oxygen Radical Absorption Capacity values units is present in dark chocolate compare to a milk chocolate which only has approximately 6,700 units. As much as twice antioxidants in the cocoa start out to be when it's an unsweetened powder. But when it is converted to black chocolate but diluting it to water, milk and sugar, the overall amount of flavonoid in every serving is about half of that in a milk chocolate.

The bottom point why both parties are in battle towards chocolate is that they only wanted to find out the best way on how to explain the positive and negative side for consuming chocolate. Here's what the general thought and summary of all the researches made by both parties. Scientists and Nutritionists are finding similar results with compounds in vegetables and fruits, red wine, tomatoes, and tea compared to the compound of chocolate that yields one common and the same conclusion. The components are sure to be antioxidant which both parties agreed. Conclusion says that the right amount of chocolate intake will yield good result for the body and is harmful if otherwise. As the both parties are arguing for any good and even bad results for chocolate eating, it is still a will for us to eat chocolate while waiting for future research as scientist and nutritionist promise to bring a conclusive study.

Spread Good Wishes With Chocolate Gifts

Whether you want to wish your friend on his birthday or give him good wishes for his exams chocolate gifts can be a perfect choice. Chocolate is extremely popular with people of all ages. So a chocolate gift for your loved one can probably be the best option if you don’t have any.


Chocolates are available in different shapes and sizes it’s up to you to decide which can serve your friends wishes better.




1. Unsweetened chocolate: Unsweetened chocolate are also called as baking chocolate. They are bitter to taste and are made up of pure chocolate liquor.  You can find unsweetened chocolates as base of cakes, brownies, confections and cookies.


2. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is best known as plain chocolate. It is called so as it is made without milk as an additive.


3. Semisweet chocolate: Semisweet chocolates are often used for cooking purposes. They are dark chocolate with high sugar content.


4. Milk Chocolate: Milk chocolate is quite popular among kids and teens. Milk chocolate is made up of milk powder or condensed milk.


5. Bitter sweet chocolate: Bitter sweet chocolates are made up of pure liquor with added sugar, cocoa butter, lecithin and vanilla. They are quite similar to semisweet chocolates the only difference being that they have less sugar and more liquor.


6. White Chocolate: White chocolate is a confection based on cocoa butter without the cocoa solids.




Gifts make a person feel special and so it is important that you select the right type of gift. Chocolate gift can make a perfect choice for any occasion be it your friend’s birthday party, victory celebration party, get well soon wishes, good wishes and so on.


Now days you can also find different types of chocolate gift basket. Chocolate gift basket is prepared with ample amount of chocolate for all the well wishes. They are designed to give a feeling of personal touch.


The Worlds Best Chocolate Comes From

You know it's addictive. You know that it can be fattening. You know that it contains loads of sugar. Has that stopped you? Of course not! It's chocolate we're talking about here! Who can give it up? Chocolate is the favorite vice of both young and old. There are so many types out there. You can find practically any kind of chocolate to satisfy even the most finicky among us. Undoubtedly, the worshippers at the altar of chocolate are a vocal bunch. Ask anyone where the best chocolate in the world come from and you'll get a variety of opinions, but most will agree that Belgian chocolate is among, if not the, best.

Belgian chocolate, as we know it today, evolved during the 19th century, but chocolate itself had been present in Belgium for roughly three centuries already.

Today, there are many major brands of Belgian chocolate including Guylian, Côte d'Or and the exquisite Godiva chocolates. Even Leonidas, which is considered to be the cheapest out of all the major brands of Belgian chocolate, has a vast following worldwide.

This can be attributed to the quality of Belgian chocolate, but also the variety available. Unlike many other types, which stick to popular combinations of caramel, raisins and a few classes of nuts, Belgian chocolate displays practically every edible combination possible. Just go to the online catalogue of any big brand. You'll see sections for truffles, nuts, fruits, white chocolate and a host of other categories. If you can't find something you like, then you don't really love chocolate

The ‘melt-in-your-mouth' consistency of Belgian chocolate has made it a favorite for use in chocolate fountains. This is the latest craze at parties, weddings and many other social events.

Chocolate fountains are essentially devices for heating chocolate, which is then transported vertically before flowing over tiers for a waterfall effect. Belgian chocolate is usually high in cocoa butter, giving it the naturally wonderful consistency that is recommended for chocolate fountains.

Chocolate fountains are also a lot easier to obtain than a traditional wedding cake. There's no need to pay someone tons of money for an intricate design and you don't have to worry about anything falling apart on the big day. A growing number of catering companies offer chocolate fountains as an alternative and they're usually a big hit with guests, who can unleash their inner child by dipping strawberries, marshmallows and anything else you give them, in the cascading Belgian chocolate.


Theres A Reason Why Chocolate Is Good For You

Rumors have been constantly circulating around the assumption that chocolate is not healthy and that it does not benefit people eating it much. According to some of these rumors, chocolate has high calories which result to excessive body fats that could clog the arteries.

However, all of these are still up to now, rumors. Nothing conclusive has definitely been said that nails down every bit of chocolate on earth as unhealthy. For chocolate lovers out there who cannot survive going for days without their favorite, you have to know that eating chocolate in moderation brings about a lot of health benefits.  In addition, constant research has generated facts that there is a variety of reasons that it is good for you.

Since chocolate is often regarded as a sinful, decadent delight because of its delicious taste and texture, it may be quite hard to hold on to the idea that it has health benefits. Nevertheless, here are some of the things behind the delicious chocolate, which sufficiently concludes it as beneficial for everyone:

1. Chocolate has vitamins that are important for our bodies to function properly. It has been discovered that it has components of Vitamins A, B1, C, D E
2. Even with its enthralling velvety texture, chocolate contains minerals such as potassium, calcium, iron.
3. It can also be a great help in reducing the risk of getting heart diseases because high blood pressure is significantly lessened due to the flavonoids in cocoa, a basic ingredient of chocolate. The flavonoids help in significantly keeping body fats from blocking the arteries.
4. These flavonoids also contain antioxidants that have been known to reduce the risk of cancer.
5. Chocolate has nitric oxide that helps in blood pressure maintenance and heart sustenance.
6. There have been findings that chocolate brings about blood thinning, similar to the effects of a small dosage of aspirin. This is a factor in keeping the free flow of blood in the system and lessens the development of clotting. However, one must not consider substituting aspirin with chocolate.
7. Aside from being beneficial to the heart and blood, many have observed that consuming chocolate brightens up their mood and keep them on a positive mindset throughout the day. Increased happiness and alertness is generally seen, as well as the capacity to reduce pain.

Chocolate has caffeine, Theobromine, tyramine and phenylethylamine that contributes to decrease of fatigue. These also give an extra boost of energy needed to get through the day. Cannabinoids are also found in chocolate, which gives off a happy and safe feeling.

These are but five of the concrete healthy aspects that are seen in chocolate. Still, a lot of research is ongoing to find out more about why chocolate is not only sinfully delicious but also beneficial for people's well-being.

Of all the findings though, the antioxidant findings is the best one yet. Even if this would be the only good thing about chocolate, it still would bring about the fact that consuming chocolate in moderation is not a sin but a healthy habit. As we are all aware of now, antioxidants aids in stopping the negative effects of free radicals in the body. Eating fruits and vegetables is very advisable to get sufficient antioxidants and reduce the risks of cancer. Now, eating chocolate can be advised as well!

What Are The Health Benefits Of Chocolate

For centuries, chocolate has been one of the most bought sweet tasting desserts in the world. But one thing that clouds the great attribute of this all-time favorite treat is the myth surrounding it that a food that tastes good can be bad for the health making chocolates too one of the most perceived food that can be dangerous to the health of the people. For this reason, many are cautious when devouring chocolates, especially those who are extremely conscious of their health.

But with researches and discoveries made these days, chocolates might not be so bad after all. In fact, there are health benefits that are associated with chocolates and can be good for the consumers. This is particularly true if people choose and consume chocolates wisely.

The surprising news pertains to the fact that a chocolate can contain over 300 chemicals, which have become the subject that scientific organizations and universities have focused and led to the good news.

So, these are what they found regarding the health benefits of chocolate:

1. It is found that the main source of chocolate, the cacao, has been proven to have antibacterial agents that actually help fight tooth decay. This is in contrast of course to the traditional myth where mothers would warn their children against eating chocolate as it can ruin their teeth.
2. Chocolate is believed to be an elevator of moods of the people as it also has phenyl ethylamine.
3. Chocolate has smell that actually helps people to relax and be freed with stress specifically due to the fact that it increases theta brain waves.
4. Contrary to the early myth, chocolate can be good to people having problems with bad cholesterol. The health food contains a kind of monounsaturated fat, called oleic acid, which raises good cholesterol.
5. Chocolate can be good for people who are weight-conscious. One hot chocolate cup taken before means help reduce appetite.
6. The chocolate also contains flavonoids, which are instrumental for keeping blood vessels more elastic.
7. Chocolate contains chemicals that help increase antioxidants levels found in blood.
8. It is also discovered that men can live another year longer if they consume chocolates.
9. Carbohydrates were found to contain chocolate, which is good for maintaining a good sense of well-being as it helps increase serotonin levels found in the brain.
10. Chocolate has been used by the Mexican healers to treat insect bites and bronchitis.

In addition to the above findings, there are other researches that negate some half-truths about chocolate. Here they are:

1. Although chocolate can contain the stimulants bromine and caffeine, these are in tiny quantities that do not lead to nervous excitability.
2. Chocolate is never addictive.
3. Chocolate does not contain chemicals that make as acne causative factor.
4. It doesn't make anyone high. You have to consume about 25lbs in one sitting, a huge quantity only found to make you experience any noticeable effect. 
5. Chocolate will not increase bad cholesterol as it actually contains a neutral fat called stearic acid.

But just like any other foods that also have a negative side, chocolate has some too, but are way far to outweigh the health benefits found.

1. People with migraines are not advised to take chocolate as it can trigger the illness more.
2. If chocolate is consumed with milk, it can contain sugar, saturated fat, and high caloric contents.

Why They Say Chocolate Has Health Benefits

Does chocolate have health benefits at all? Few studies and researches made not too long ago suggested it has. In fact, a lot of chemicals containing chocolate were found to be beneficial to the people's health. So, it does contradict the old myth and half-truths surrounding the saying that anything that looks and tastes good is bad.

The health benefits are particularly true to cocoa, dark chocolate, and minimally-processed chocolate foods. Aside from the copper and magnesium, which aids in regulating blood pressure and heartbeat, they contain flavonoids, the ones that you also found in high-antioxidant green tea. As you probably know it already, antioxidants are good for the health as they accomplish a number of health benefits, such as the following:

* Improve circulation
* Lower blood pressure
* Stimulate kidneys, improve digestion
* Can help patients with poor appetite, kidney stones, and anemia
* Improve endothelial functions
* Guard against free radicals and other destructive molecules, which are known to trigger stroke and heart disease.
* Lower heart disease-related deaths

Flavonoids have two different kinds, the epicatechins and catechin. The catechin has been found to be rich in minimally processed chocolate foods and cocoa. This is known to aid in preventing heart disease illnesses and possibly cancer problems. It is also aid to boosting an individual's immune system, this one also was recently discovered by the experts. Catechins can be found triple in amount in chocolates as compared to those found in teas.

But despite the discovered health benefits of chocolate, you have to be cautious at what type and amount of chocolate food you consume. As anything excessive can be bad to health, and that applies to chocolate too. Eating high quantities of chocolate can still cause weight and eventually trigger illness especially if you consume the less healthy type of chocolate.

In order to avoid the unpleasant consequences, you have to choose the right type of chocolate when consuming as not all kinds are good. For example, highly-processed chocolate food kind such as those in candy and bar forms have high calories, sugar, and fat contents, therefore, must be avoided at all cost. Healthy kinds are dark chocolate, cocoa, and any other minimally-processed chocolate food.

This is in relation to studies demonstrating possible effects by eating chocolates done by the experts to groups of participants. In a particular study, half of the group ate dark chocolate while the other white chocolate. One ones who ate white chocolate, showed no change in blood pressure, while the other who ate dark chocolate, significantly lowered their systolic blood pressure.

At another conducted Pennsylvania State University study,a different group of participants received low fat diet, except that the half got high-carb snack and the other consumed low fat chocolate bar for a certain length of time. The two split groups didn't show difference in levels of bad or LDL cholesterol afterwards. However, those that ate chocolate bars did show increase in triglycerides, a type of heart-risk blood fat, and good or HDL cholesterols.

From these studies, it showed how chocolate can actually be a good diet food. However, note that the participants were only fed in minimal quantities of chocolates, therefore it is still not advised to consume this sweet treat more than what is required for you to take. Also, remember to avoid chocolate foods that are high in artificial flavorings, with dairy products, and sugars. Remember this: the less that it is processed, the more that health benefits you will get from chocolate.

Sunday, July 29, 2012

A Gourmet Chocolate Gift Basket Is The Perfect Gift

There are many online specialty stores that offer nothing but the best in chocolate gift baskets. They offer a great assortment to choose from, and you can even individualize your basket by picking just your favorites.

Chocolate gift baskets are designed for all occasions and holidays; Valentines Day, birthdays, weddings, and Mother’s Day are by far the most popular, but they are offered in designs perfect for any type of gathering.

May chocolate gift baskets can be combined with other items as well, such as with flowers, wine, fruit, nuts, cheeses, appetizers, or whole gourmet meals, and are perfect for a romantic getaway or picnic too.

These gift baskets are available in a variety of sizes and prices, and can be gift wrapped for special occasions with a personal card attached and shipped directly to the recipient. With the internet you can shop, make your purchase, and have it shipped all in a relatively short period of time.

It will be packaged to keep your chocolate gift basket fresh and cool, and is usually delivered by UPS or Fed Ex to guarantee that your purchase arrives in the state in which it left the store.

If you are a lover of chocolate, you have simply not lived until you have tasted true, high quality, gourmet chocolates. Chocolate gift baskets are a great gift and are a nice substitute or tasty addition to traditional floral bouquets, or other gift arrangements.

People who are true connoisseurs of fine chocolate will appreciate your gift, and you will probably get to enjoy a sample as well if you deliver the chocolate gift basket personally! Chocolate gift baskets are available in a variety of collections, and include a wonderful assortment of the best gourmet confections around.

If you choose to purchase a chocolate gift basket at a local retailer, you can sample their specialties, and literally select items based on your personal tastes. Retailers also offer special promotions around the holidays or for special occasions, and can ship the chocolate gift basket for you as well. Whatever you decide, it will be truly decadent and loved by everyone. Who doesn’t like chocolate? Not me!

You haven’t lived until you have had a handmade chocolate truffle filled with a decadent filling surrounded by a tasty outer chocolate shell. And who says that you have to just buy these little pieces of oral pleasure just for others, you deserve to indulge yourself too!


Buy A Chocolate Fountain

Some people (with little vision or desire to entertain) would be forgiven for wondering why anyone would want to buy a chocolate fountain? It all depends. If you are the type of person who invites people around then rations the food and drink and expects your guests to like it or lump it, then perhaps it's not for you. (I've certainly been to those kind of parties, where the hosts were so mean you were searching for takeout on the way home!)



However if you are a generous host or hostess who wants to really send your guests away happy, then the thought that you might buy a chocolate fountain won't seem so strange to you. Sure, the sort of person who wants to show off would also want to buy a chocolate fountain for their next party, but there's nothing wrong with trying to make an impression on your guests.

Entertaining is just that – it's your turn to make sure that your guests are amused, fed and watered to the very best of your ability. You might want to buy a chocolate fountain if you are planning a grand party like a wedding reception, or a retirement party or special birthday. Conversely you might want a fountain just to make a small, intimate party have that “wow” factor which will put a smile on the face of your guests.



Imagine if at dessert time at the end of a dinner party you produced a chocolate fountain and a big dish of strawberries? How great would that be? If you go ahead and buy a chocolate fountain you won't regret it because you can use it in so many different circumstances. Once you've used it once, you can rest assured your guests will be hoping to see it again, so it's probably best to buy a chocolate fountain rather than rent.

In order to obtain a fountain you can try Party Rental firms who might be selling off used ones, try a manufacturer, try local party good suppliers and also of course surf the internet in search of the bargain you really want when you go to buy a chocolate fountain.


Chocolate Party Favors

Everyone loves chocolate and Americans eat 10-12 pounds of it every year, so it makes the perfect party favors. Chocolate is considered a food that is relaxing the body, and it has a calming effect. It calms our nerves and helps us feel good. Some consider it a sinful indulgence, but it is not necessarily the case. If you choose your chocolate wisely, you can enjoy it without the guilty feelings we usually associate with it.



Party favors are small gifts the host gives each guest to show their appreciation. It is a great way to say "thank you for being here." There are many different party favors, but the most popular of them all is chocolate.

Chocolate party favors can be further enhanced with personalization. Personalized chocolates enable you to communicate a message to your guest. For example, if you are celebrating a birthday party you can include a message such as "Happy Birthday Joe." You can have a date, the place of the party, or any other message printed on the chocolate wrapper.

Your personalized wrapper is wrapped around usually milk chocolate, since it is the most popular kind of chocolate.



Chocolate not only tastes great, but it may be good for your health. Some research shows that chocolate may help your body use insulin more efficiently and lower your blood pressure. Chocolate includes essential minerals, such as magnesium and potassium. Vitamins B1, B2, D and E are found in chocolate. Chocolate includes antioxidants that can help protect against cancer and old age.

The history of chocolate dates back to the Maya civilization, and we still can't live without it. According to recent surveys, chocolate is America's favorite flavor with over 50% of adults favoring chocolate to other flavors. Chocolate party favors are a great way to add to your party enjoyment, and with moderation it can even be part of a healthy diet.


Choosing The Right Chocolate Gift Basket

Chocolate gift baskets make a great gift for just about any occasion. They're personal or professional, depending on the basket selected.

For a close friend, of course, you want to pick something that has some of his or her favorite varieties of chocolate. Maybe they like Ghiradelli. Maybe any milk chocolate at all will do. Or maybe a gift basket filled with the most unique, decadent chocolates you can imagine will be the perfect gift.



You'll also want to consider the occasion. For a birthday present for a sports fan, there are chocolate gift baskets with a sports theme. Similarly, there are baskets with golf themes, fishing themes, spring themes and many more. You might choose a basket of chocolate covered pretzels.

For a wedding anniversary, there are baskets with a more romantic theme. This is a great time to choose the most decadent variety you can find.

A chocolate gift basket is also great to celebrate milestones, such as graduations or special accomplishments. You can find them with appropriate themes in most cases.



For a professional gift basket, you have to consider exactly who you are giving it to. Is the gift basket for an individual, a team or the whole office?

In any of these cases, you want to keep things very professional, but if the chocolate is to be shared among many people you need to consider the number of people as well as how easily the components will break up. You will also want a good variety to suit a variety of tastes.



If you give a lot of professional gifts, you will probably quickly develop a few favorites that suit your needs best. A great way to ensure that the basket is memorable is to add something from your business to it. Have the basket sent to your office so that you have the opportunity to customize it, then deliver it yourself. If you are sending it to someone far away, this is obviously more difficult, as chocolate needs special packaging to keep it from melting, but this is perfect for your local clients. Some companies may be able to add items at your request, so ask when you order.



Yes, chocolate can get expensive quickly. But the wonderful thing about it is that just about everyone loves it, it is easily shared, and it doesn't add to the clutter of most people's homes. You will rarely get a worse complaint than that you're ruining someone's diet when you give them chocolate.


Everyone Loves Chocolate Chip Cookies

If you are like me, you remember how much you loved visiting grandma's house as a kid. You loved it because you got spoiled there. She let you play any game you wanted, you got to be silly and goofy, and you could even have candy before dinner. Grandma let you do all of the things that your mom said no to. But there is another reason kids love going to grandma's house to visit: her chocolate chip cookies.

Chocolate cookies are loved by most people I know. And most of us discovered our love for them as small children in the comfort of grandma's kitchen. For some reason her cookies were always much better than mom's. Maybe it is because they were always hot and soft or because she probably let you eat as many as you wanted.

Whatever the reason, one thing is sure. You loved, and maybe still do love, chocolate chip cookies.

Chocolate chip cookies are the perfect snack. You can eat them when they are warm and right out of the oven or you can save them for a few days and still enjoy them just as much. Some people even love to eat the dough of the chocolate chip cookies before they are baked. Not many other snacks can be eaten in so many fun ways. Perfect with a glass of milk, chocolate cookies can be enjoyed after school, just before bed, and during any season of the year. They are just as good when it is freezing cold outside as they are in the middle of summer.



Chocolate chip cookies are the most famous kind of cookies. Everyone has eaten one and most everyone loves them. You can find them in every grocery store and bakery you enter, and most every cook I know has a special recipe to make the perfect batch. Chocolate chip cookies are great because they are made with a few simple ingredients, most of which you have in the house all the time.



Making chocolate chip cookies is a perfect way to get children started working in a kitchen and learning to cook. All kids love to help mom with mixing and pouring the ingredients together, and there is nothing better to let kids experiment with than chocolate chip cookies. Kids can get involved and have a special job to do and they can see and taste the results of their hard work. Baking chocolate chip cookies is a great family building activity that can fill any Saturday afternoon with fun.

So the next time you remember how great grandma's chocolate chip cookies really were, get out your own secret recipe and get your whole family to make the special memory of making and baking the perfect chocolate chip cookie.


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.


Make Chocolate Covered Strawberries At Home

It isn't hard to tell when spring has arrived officially. I agree that the signs aren't always clear when you look at the weather, but they are clear when you look at the produce section of your grocery store. For example, strawberries are always in abundant in the spring. You will find many grocery stores offering them at very affordable prices during this season.

Many of us get excited about the abundant number of red berries but not excited enough about eating only strawberries all week. You will find many irresistible buy-one-get-one-free offers. With such offers you might end up having more than enough berries to consume. If you don't know what to do with all these berries you can use them to make chocolate covered strawberries.



Sounds exciting? I bet.



Recently I saw an ad for chocolate covered strawberries from a local chocolate factory. But when I saw the price offered for it at reputable store, I was shocked. What I then did was to engage in price comparison. This made me to discover, to my greatest amazement, that average cost of chocolate covered strawberries is expensive. I then decided to find out how to save money and still get what I want.

I don't know why, but the expense of the treat made it much more appealing. Of course, this isn't to imply that I want to get into a chocolate covered strawberries buying frenzy. It simply means I want to find out if there was a way I could make them myself. If I succeeded I could then put the produce sales to good use.

My thought previously was that I would need expensive cocoa blocks for melting and dipping. But thankfully, I discovered that the best way for melting chocolate is via old-fashioned chips which can be bought right from your local grocery store.

Of course this was really great news for me as I hate going to and fro looking for what I want, even though I have no problem going for chocolate covered strawberries that are not too expensive.

Another news I came across is the fact that I can use my microwave for this purpose. You see, in theory, making chocolate covered strawberries is easy. You should follow the necessary instructions carefully. By following the instructions carefully you will not scorch the chocolate.

For starters, fade the chips in a microwave-safe bowl. Don't forget the importance of using the defrost setting. Also, remember that when you dip your chocolate covered strawberries on high, it will scorch it. What to do? Wait until the dip is quite smooth. This can take two to three minutes.



Do you know the specific technique that people use to dip chocolate covered strawberries? Simply dip the berries into the mixture, and then shake the excess away as you withdraw it. Lastly, you can then give the chocolate covered strawberries a few whirls in clockwise direction, and then set it on wax paper. After this you are set to start enjoying the labor of your hard work!


The Health Aspects Of Chocolate

Chocolate is relaxing. It's calming. It soothes our nerves and makes us feel good. And we often think of it as a sinful indulgence. But it doesn't have to be. If you choose your chocolate wisely, you can enjoy it without the guilty feelings we normally associate with it.

What Are the Healthy Aspects of Chocolate?

By eating small amounts of the right chocolate, you will enjoy the many health aspects of chocolate. Chocolate contains high levels of potassium and magnesium, as well as vitamins B1, B2, D and E. If that's not reason enough to reach for a daily dose of chocolate, consider that it can also lower blood pressure and prevent arteries from hardening, therefore protecting the heart.

Has Chocolate Been Wrongly Accused?

For the most part, chocolate has been wrongly accused. New studies are finding that common beliefs about the effects of chocolate are not true after all. While we used to associate chocolate with acne, researchers have now dismissed a possible link between the two. While some people avoided chocolate because of the caffeine level associated with it, we now know that a small serving only contains as much caffeine as a cup of decaffeinated coffee. Does chocolate really cause migraines? Well, only if consumed in large amounts. Again, moderation plays a big role here.

So before you reach for a Hershey bar of a Snicker's, consider that the chocolate you eat should contain 70% cocoa. This can be found specifically in dark chocolates. You should invest in a quality dark chocolate and eat it in small amounts every day to see the health benefits. Make sure you enjoy each bite and let it melt in your mouth. It will have the same effect as the recommended single glass of wine per day.

What Kind of Chocolate Offers The Most Health Aspects?

True cocoa is the best chocolate to eat for health reasons. Not only will it satisfy your sweet tooth, but it will also provide health aspects beyond what many of us dreamed possible. The recommendation is to eat two small squares of chocolate per day. We're not talking about a typical candy bar here. Dark chocolate contains higher levels of cocoa and lower level of milk and sugar.

Choosing Wisely

The best varieties of chocolate are more expensive and are dark or bittersweet. Good chocolate should only have a few ingredients on the contents label. In addition, you can buy organic chocolate or make your own homemade chocolate with a cocoa base.

Healthy Chocolate Snacks

There are some easy ways to get in your daily dose of heart-healthy chocolate. Try a steamy cup of hot cocoa, fruit dipped dark in chocolate, chocolate covered almonds or eat the squares of chocolate by themselves.

Chocolate in Moderation

Hearing that chocolate has health aspects does not mean we can load up our grocery carts with chocolate bars though. It is important to adhere to the daily-recommended dose since it is high in calories. Moderation is a key factor here. Balance your caloric intake with a variety of other heart-healthy foods and reach for the dark chocolate as a cure for your sweet tooth sparingly.


The Pros And The Cons In Chocolate Consumption

Researchers and Scientist brought some news for chocolate lovers stating that it may be essential for the body. These groups of individuals has a preliminary evidence on their reports stating that cocoa and other chocolates have the ability to normalize a high blood pressure for a hypertensive persons, makes the blood regulates well and make the heart function healthy. According to this study, there is substance called Nitric Oxide which is produce and regulated by cocoa. This Nitric Oxide is a compound essential for a healthy and well blood flow and also for blood pressure. Other studies reveal that a Flavanol in cocoa triggers any fatty substances in the bloodstream in order to avoid clogging of the arterial and even makes the platelets act by sticking together and prevent blood clots. There are 4,000 kinds of compound sources which are potential for this kind of activity and one of those is compound found in chocolate called Flavonoids which was secreted from cocoa bean. Cocoa bean is a component of chocolate. The term used for these flavonoids in cocoa is flavanols.

In general, studies have found that this dark chocolate has high components of flavonoids compare to white ones. It is a way that the cocoa powder and syrups of this chocolate are processed that removes essential flavonoids. A rationale on this study shows that the more intake of flavanol in the human body also relates the intense activity of Nitric Oxide. This Nitric Acid has a very significant role in maintaining a healthy blood pressure and even in the cardiovascular system.

Chocolate is known as a good source of promoting good blood flow. According to studies and researches performed by scientists and researchers, a low dose of aspirin performs exactly the same to a flavonol that can be found in cocoa and chocolate. And this activity promotes a healthy blood flow. So it will reduce the possibility of blood clotting and also reduces any risk of possible stroke or even heart attack to a person with high blood pressure. This would only mean that a person with allergic symptoms to aspirin may eat a flavanol rich food which is in the composition of a chocolate. Though, it's not a medicine, it is considered as a best alternative approach. The explanation goes as the blood platelet activity is related the benefits produce by Nitric Oxide.

It has been studied and observed that several bioactive components, compounds and substances in chocolate are proven to promote a state of alertness, promote a well-being, and even lessen pain. Facts show that a stimulants caffeine, theobromine, phenylethylamine, and tyramine provide a brain fogged for a desire needed lift. Tryptophan, an essential amino acid works to lessen any form of anxiety by the production of the neurotransmitter serotonin; endorphins, the body's neutral opiates; all of these are categorized to lessen body pain. Other compound like Anandamide serves similar to cannabinoid which promote and regulate relaxation. Chocolate is also a natural kind of analgesic.

A summary for these studies and research would only state that eating chocolate in its recommended amount will give enough energy lift, lessen the anxiety, and a reduction to a possible pain. However, Nutritionists, and Biochemists could always argue that chocolates doesn't contain much of these beneficial and health giving benefits. For example, Nutritionists, and Biochemists will say that caffeine is a substance the make us alert but there is a less amount of caffeine in chocolate if they have to compare it to a cup of plain coffee. There are only 30 milligrams of caffeine in a bar of chocolate but there is 100-150 milligrams of caffeine is present on a plain cup of coffee. Another situation is the feeling of being alert for a while after consuming a bar of chocolate. However, that temporary good feeling of satisfaction is most likely to be changed by an activity of sugar induced drop energy that brings fatigue even compared before eating a chocolate. Another compound is the anandamine that can cause a feeling of being "high"; a feeling associated in the effect of taking marijuana.

You Can't Go Wrong With Chocolate Cake

If you are planning a birthday party, a wedding or an event that requires entertaining others for any reason, then you know well what a challenge it can be to create a party that everyone will enjoy. You know all the details that go into planning a perfect event, and you are well aware that you cannot plan a great party carelessly. Instead, you need to be cautious about the details and take your time with each aspect of party planning. Choosing a dessert can be one of the most important yet hard decisions that gets made for events, but you cannot go wrong by choosing a chocolate cake.



The thing about all parties is that people expect to come and be filled with good food. You can have the most special games and activities planned for your party, but without a great menu in place people will leave your party disappointed and regretful. That is why it is important to take your menu planning seriously from appetizers and drinks to entrees and desserts. As a professional party planner, I often advise my clients to conside serving a chocolate cake for dessert. In fifteen years of planning great weddings and other parties, I have learned that offering a chocolate cake is a decision that rarely goes wrong.

People of all ages love chocolate, this we know, so doesn't it make sense that we would use chocolate for life's most special events? I am always in awe when people think that it is a good idea to make the menu for important parties entirely different from the things that people would normally eat.

This is no way to keep people filled and satisfied. It is always wise to have at least a few things on a menu that people are familiar with and used to eating. Surprises are great, but not when it comes to a significant piece of the menu like the dessert. This is why a chocolate cake is the choice for all celebrations.

The whole point in planning great parties is for people to enjoy themselves. I guarentee that people of all ages and walks of life will enjoy a tasty chocolate cake. Now I am not suggested that you throw a couple of boxed cake mixes into the oven when you are planning your wedding, yet I am suggesting that you make the best chocolate cake possible because you know that everyone will love it.