Monthly Archives: December 2010

Chocolate Rosettes

For many, the rosette is a traditional Christmas treat.  The rosette is a thin cookie, deep-fried and sprinkled in powdered sugar.  The pastry is Norwegian in origin. Rosettes are intricately shaped and formed using a rosette iron.

The iron has to be heated to a very high temperature in oil before dipping it into the batter.  The batter is then re-dipped in the hot oil to create a crispy shell around the iron.  After the rosette separates from the iron, it is cooled and dusted in confectioner’s sugar.
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Fannie May Chocolates Returns

2004 was a tumultuous time for Chicago-based chocolate retailer Fannie May.  It was the year they declared bankruptcy.  More than 200 stores were closed.

Fannie May began in 1920 when H. Teller Archibald opened a chocolate shop on LaSalle St. in Chicago.  In 1946, the famous Fannie May Pixies® were introduced and it continues to be their best selling item.  Pixies are caramel covered nuts drenched in chocolate.
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Roasting Cocoa Beans

Here is a dose of chocolate science.  You know you need it from time to time!

Roasting cocoa beans serve two purposes.  First, it dries the beans, and second, it develops flavor. 

Driving off as much moisture in the bean is important from a food safety perspective.  The lower the water content, the more difficult it is for bacteria to grow and pose a health threat.
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Candied Orange Peel vs. Jellied Orange Candies

As promised here are two recipes.  The first is for Candied Orange Peel.  The second is for Jellied Orange Candies.

For best results you'll have to temper the chocolate so review those instructional blog posts, or refer to your Chocolate University Online lesson materials, if you need to refresh your memory.

Candied Orange Peel

• 1 large navel orange
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate, chopped
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