Chocolate comes in a variety of shapes that delight the eyes and palate. In this blog post, we’ll explore the artistry behind creating intricate chocolate shapes and sculptures, as well as how to create perfectly molded chocolates. So buckle up and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of chocolate shapes!
Best chocolate shapes
When it comes to chocolate shapes, there are many options and each of them has its own unique appeal. Among the most popular shapes are:
- Truffles are small, round or spherical-shaped chocolates with a smooth and creamy ganache center. They are often coated in cocoa powder, nuts, or chocolate shavings, making them both visually appealing and incredibly decadent.
- Chocolate bars (aka “tablets”) are a timeless favorite. Whether they are plain milk chocolate, dark chocolate, or infused with various flavors and ingredients like nuts, fruits, or caramel, chocolate bars offer a satisfying and versatile shape that’s easy to break and can be enjoyed in multiple ways.
- Bonbons are small, bite-sized chocolates that come in various shapes and flavors. They are typically filled with flavored ganache, fruit puree, or creamy fillings, and often feature intricate designs and patterns on their exteriors.
- Chocolate coins are round and flat chocolates that resemble real coins. They are often wrapped in gold or silver foil and are popular during festive occasions or as treats for children. They bring a sense of fun and nostalgia to chocolate consumption.
- Chocolate lollipops are not only delightful to taste but also visually appealing. They come in various shapes, such as hearts, stars, or cartoon characters, and are often enjoyed by both children and adults alike.
- Chocolate sculptures showcase the incredible skill and craftsmanship of chocolatiers. The sculptures, which can be animal-shaped, landmarks, or replicas of famous objects, push the boundaries of creativity and artistry.
- Complex 3D structures are now also a reality. Yes, 3D printing has crossed over into the world of chocolate. If you are interested in making a bust of yourself out of chocolate or any other complex shape, check out Cocoa Press.
If you want to learn more about sculpting chocolate, make sure to listen to our latest podcast with Lluc Crusellas, a Spanish chocolatier who won the “World Chocolate Masters” competition and created a chocolate elephant weighing more than 170 kilos. The sculpture, which has been on display at Harrods in London, symbolizes the fight for survival in the face of threatening climate change. And if you really want to be amazed, make sure to check out Netflix’s incredible show School of Chocolate. It’s fascinating and inspiring to watch how chocolatiers make beautiful sculptures out of chocolate.
Does the shape of chocolate affect the taste?
The shape of chocolate can affect the way its flavor is perceived. Although the flavor itself remains constant regardless of its shape, there are several ways in which the shape of chocolate influences taste perception:
- Texture – Chocolate comes in many shapes and sizes, but the shape of a piece can affect its texture. A thin, flat piece may melt quickly on the tongue, providing a smooth and creamy sensation. On the other hand, a chocolate bar with a thicker shape may offer a more substantial and satisfying bite. Different shapes can create variations in mouthfeel, the way something feels in your mouth, which can enhance or alter the overall taste experience.
- Rate of Melting – The surface area of a chocolate shape is related to how quickly it melts. Thin and small shapes melt faster, spreading the flavor across your taste buds more quickly. This can intensify the perception of sweetness and other flavor notes. Thick or large shapes may take longer to melt, allowing for a slower release of flavors.
- Visual Appeal – The shape of the chocolate can influence our perception of taste through its visual form. A beautifully designed or intricately molded chocolate can create anticipation and heighten our enjoyment of it.
The shape of chocolate can influence how it tastes, but for the most part, the taste of chocolate depends on the quality of the chocolate itself and its ingredients. The shape of the chocolate is more about the overall sensory experience and can add an element of novelty and enjoyment to tasting.
Why does most chocolate come in squares?
One reason chocolate often comes in a square or rectangular shape is its practicality and convenience. Chocolate is pre-portioned so that it’s easier to control serving sizes. Each square represents a single portion, allowing individuals to enjoy just the right amount of chocolate without the need for cutting or breaking larger bars. Also, the segmented square shape makes it easy to break apart along the pre-scored lines. This allows for neat and clean portioning, as well as easy sharing with others.
What are the most popular chocolate shapes?
Although the popularity of chocolate shapes varies depending on factors such as cultural preferences, seasonal trends, and personal preferences, there are a few that have gained popularity over time. Here are some of the most popular chocolate shapes:
- Chocolate bars
- Chocolate truffles (spheres, cubes, etc.)
- Chocolate hearts
- Chocolate bonbons
- Chocolate bunnies
- Chocolate coins
There are many different types of chocolate shapes, from simple squares and rectangles to more unusual creations. These days, chocolate makers can mold chocolate into just about any shape you can imagine.
Popular chocolate shapes by brand
Chocolate brands have come up with their own signature shapes, which have become popular among consumers. Here are some examples of popular chocolate shapes associated with specific brands:
Hershey’s Kisses are small, iconic chocolates shaped like a teardrop. They have a distinctive foil wrapper and are favorites of many people around the world.
Lindt Lindor Truffles are known for their round shape, smooth centers and indulgent taste. These chocolates are often individually wrapped and have become synonymous with premium quality.
Toblerone is a triangular-shaped chocolate bar known for its unique honey and almond nougat filling. It has become a popular brand because of its distinctive shape and taste.
Ferrero Rocher chocolates are famous for their hazelnut filling, spherical shape, and golden foil wrapping. These elegant chocolates are often given as gifts and symbolize luxury.
Kinder Surprise is a brand known for its egg-shaped chocolates. The hollow chocolate eggs contain a small toy or surprise inside, making them popular with children.
How to make chocolate shapes?
To make basic chocolate shapes, you need to start with high-quality chocolate (such as couverture or melting chocolate), silicone molds in various shapes, a microwave or double boiler, a spatula, and any additional ingredients or decorations you want to incorporate (such as nuts, sprinkles, or food coloring.
Make sure your molds are clean and dry before you use them. Wash molds with warm soap and water; dry them thoroughly before using. This will help you achieve a smooth finish on your chocolate shapes.
Start by melting the chocolate. A little hint – break it into small pieces to make it easier to melt. You can either melt the chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl using short bursts of heat, stirring in between, or use a double boiler on the stovetop. Be careful not to overheat the chocolate, as it can become grainy or burn.
To ensure that chocolate has a shiny appearance and sets properly, tempering is a crucial process that involves heating and cooling the chocolate to specific temperatures. Check out this blog article regarding tempering chocolate.
Fill the mold with melted chocolate. Use a spoon or spatula to fill them completely and smooth down any peaks. If you want to add fillings or decorations, such as nuts or sprinkles, do so before pouring the chocolate.
Tap the molds gently on a flat surface to settle the chocolate and remove any air bubbles. You can use a spatula to smooth the surface of each chocolate shape if needed, making sure it is level and free of excess chocolate.
Let the chocolate-fill molds sit at room temperature until they harden, or put the molds in the refrigerator for a quicker setting.
Once the chocolate has set, carefully peel the silicone mold to release the chocolate shapes. Store the chocolate shapes in an airtight container in a cool, dry place until you’re ready to eat them or give them away.
Once you have mastered the art of basic shape molding, you can try to make 3D objects using two part molds. This requires more skill and patience to get the two halves to come together just right.
Remember to have fun and experiment with different molds, techniques, and decorations to create your own unique chocolate shapes. With practice, you’ll be able to make beautiful chocolate shapes that will delight everyone.
At the end of the day, chocolate comes in many different shapes. Each shape offers its own unique charm and appeals to different tastes and preferences. So, the next time you indulge in a piece of chocolate, take a moment to appreciate the artistry behind its shape!
We hope you enjoyed this article. For more great articles, check out the rest of our CocoTerra blog.
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