Seduction Meals is about food + romance and the premise that everyone should learn to master one dish that is their signature dish—a Seduction Meal, to enchant and captivate that special someone in your life...
It's no secret that we love our chocolate here at Seduction Meals. So whenever we get an opportunity to provide you with a chance to win some dark, creamy gourmet goodness, we jump right on it. (Don't mention it, really.)
If you've never experienced Chuao Chocalatier, now is the time to find out what you've been missing.
For a whole year, Chuao will supply one lucky winner with chocolate treats to satisfy the soul. Four runners-up will get a nice sampling of four Chuao chocolate bars. Willy Wonka, eat your heart out. Like Chuao on Facebook to grab your chance to win!
For the past several Valentine's Days, we've gotten into the habit of pointing you towards the most luscious and luxurious artisan chocolates on the market, and we see no reason to stop now. In keeping with our Rhapsody in Red theme, here are some exotically flavored handcrafted chocolates to ignite flames of passion.
What could be more perfect than aphrodisiac-themed truffles? With ingredients like kumamoto oyster-infused cream, champagne, and pearl dust; mamajuana and chamomile; and ancho chillies and Ceylon cinnamon, this is a box of chocolates unlike any you've tasted before.
Pave Glace are decadently delicious chocolates created with ground hazelnuts, saffron, and cocoa butter, designed to resemble the cobblestones of a Swiss mountain village. Elegant, unexpected, charming and very tasty.
A fiery collection of four sweet, hot bonbons to light up the senses. Chipotle, pasilla chile and cayenne combine with more traditional ingredients like caramel fudge, sea salt, cinnamon chocolate ganache and macadamia nut praline to put an intriguing spin on some old classics.
Made especially for Valentine's Day, this truffle collection from Romanicos offers rich and creamy flavors like vanilla, champagne, holy berry, and coconut. Takes the heart-shaped box of chocolates to a whole new level.
Chocolates from His/Her Hometown
Want something a little more personal? Call up an independent chocolatier or candy store in your partner's hometown and order up a box from them. It's a sweet way to support a local business while honoring your loved one's roots.
Imagine slowing indulging in chocolate lightly dusted with sultry sea salt, or a slow-burning spicy chocolate bar, or a ravishing rocky road bar . Well now you can!
Chuao Chocolatiers is giving away a Sweet Makeover to one lucky Facebook fan. Enter for a chance to win a $1,000 designer shopping spree on Shopbop.com, plus a shot at a fabulous weekly giveaway.
All you have to do is "like" Chuao Chocalatiers on Facebook by clicking on the link above or the image below; fill out their quick and easy entry form. and you are in!
Think magical love potion with side effects of uncontrollable passion and sensual bliss. Let's face it, people do crazy things for their chocolate fix and for some reason not to be challenged, gifts of chocolate morsels are expected on Valentine's Day. It's so easy to go online and order some of the best artisanal chocolates...so don't wait until the last minute, order now! Here's some of our favorites: Vosages - Red Fire Milagro Heart of Love: $4.00 Spice it up a notch! Bestow the gift of a love miracle, and give a milagro heart to someone special. The milagro (meaning miracle in Spanish) symbolizes gratitude and love, and embodies the power of the heart to heal all wounds. Classic Red Fire parfum of Ancho y Chipotle chillies + Ceylon cinnamon + dark chocolate. John & Kira: The Ultimate Wine + Fig Gift Box: $79.95 John & Kira: "This pairing is one of the best things we have ever tasted. Inside the beautiful brown gift box lies a 12 piece box of chocolate covered whiskey ganache figs accompanied by a bottle of Lacrima Dolce merlot based dessert wine (375 ml) from the ultra premium Penns Woods Winery in Chadds Ford, PA. The pairing makes the ultimate dessert after a long meal and the perfect gift for a wine and chocolate connoisseur."
"To make the figs, we import tender, organic dried Calabacita figs from a small family farm in Spain then fill them ourselves with a silky smooth, whiskey infused Valrhona dark chocolate ganache. They are then hand-dipped in 62% dark chocolate and carefully placed in their own gift box . . . finished with a letter-pressed card." Romanicos: Love Stamp Mezzo - $75 True chocoholics understand that one type of chocolate, one flavor, one tiny box, is never enough. We have taken our inspiration from these chocolate lovers and created this giant gift box of decadent chocolates containing our three lines of chocolate (Truffles, Chocolate Art, and our Truffle Bites). Oh, sweet temptations! Vosages - Grande Heart Exotic Truffle Collection: $95 Love is a battlefield, here is your purple heart! This alluring purple heart shaped box contains an assortment of 32 truffles from the Italiana, Groove, Aztec and Exotic Collections. Savor each truffle for a taste of history and culture from all around the world. Magnify your tasting experience with the provided pairing menu. Maribelle NY - 36 pieces of Artistic Sweets for your Loved One: $97 When it comes to elegant surprises, nothing compares to the classic 36 piece MarieBelle box. Packed up in a fashionable and artistic Red box are 36 delicious seasonal themed morsels, ready to satisfy your senses.
Richart Valentine Day's Gift Boxes: $15 - $75 What is the flavor of your love? This year, Michel RICHART was inspired by the ever changing sides of love: mysterious, loyal, passionate, sincere, secret...Discover how he translated all these feelings and memories into unique textures, savors, and flavors. And celebrate love.
Christopher Elbow - Valentine Collection: $38 Whats not to love? Twenty chocolates from our fall/winter seasonal collection wrapped up in a beautiful heart shaped box. This item is available to order now, but will not be available for shipping until January 30th.
Bloomsberry & Co. is a fun chocolate company from New Zealand, available in the US, with all kinds of fun designer chocolate bars proven to tantalize the taste buds, seduce the senses, and evoke a smile or two. Great for gift ideas or a sweet get together for two. Serve with Champagne, Strawberries and Cream. Enjoy!
For chocolate lovers the world over, I present three luxurious chocolate creations: Drunken Chocolate Figs (my favorite!), Chocolate Covered Cherries, and Spiced Pumpkin bon bons. Each hand-crafted chocolate is made with fresh, natural and oftentimes locally procured ingredients. I recently tried all three and have to say they are all pretty great--each boasting a unique flavor like no other.
This is no cherry cordial . . . John and Kira's pairs a naturally dried, deep-red tart cherry with a decadent 62% Valrhona dark chocolate ganache spiked with a hint of brandy. All three flavors, cherry, dark chocolate and brandy, come together to make one exquisitely well rounded bite.
Nothing says Thanksgiving like delicate pumpkins. These delightful confections are filled with a Pumpkin Pie Caramel, a blend of real pumpkin, sugar, and all of your favorite spices including cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, ginger, and orange zest. Each one is finished by hand with its own unique stem.
This is my ALL Time FAVORITE. I discovered this divine chocolate morsel a couple of years ago at the Chocolate Show in NYC. With one bite the words flowed out...WOW! Just incredible.
Noted for their extremely thin skins and sweet taste, each Spanish chocolate fig is filled by hand with a silky dark 64% Valrhona whiskey ganache then dipped in a thin layer of dark 64% chocolate. Need I say more??? The Calabacita variety of fig is grown by a family owned company in "Los Llanillos" in the village of Almoharin located in the Extremadura region of Spain.
Based out of Philadelphia, PA, John & Kira's is a socially innovative chocolate company dedicated to both making and selling world class confections and promoting positive social change. Their signature line of chocolate ganache squares features ingredients from sustainable artisan food growers local to their Philadelphia chocolate studio, across the country and around the world. Their gourmet, artisan chocolates are hand-craftedbeautifully gift-boxed for your holiday gift giving, birthdays, wedding favors, and business gifts. Treat yourself to something incredible, and when you can, let us know which is YOUR favorite.
Love Chocolate? Consider a Chocolate Tour for your next date. Carmen Botez's passion shines through as you experience custom tours that stir your senses, combining a drop of fantasy, a dash of stylish adventure and a spoon-full of great taste.
The Union Square Chocolate, & Wine Tour is an enticing walking tour that will take you and your date on a fascinating journey into the cultural and chocolate history of the Union Square area. Of course you will be joined by others, but when it comes to chocolate--does it really matter? And, when you pair the best chocolate and pastry with a fine selection of wines; everyone else will seem to disappear as you close your eyes and savor each and every chocolate morsel. On this 3-hour guided tour you will:
Get exclusive behind the scenes access to the kitchen of one of the most popular New York-based artisanal chocolatiers.
Enter a Flatiron District bakery that is an institution in its own right, and has all the locals lined up and ready to buy their buttery croissants and crunchy breads first thing in the morning.
See a factory where they produce chocolate that is organic, natural, gluten-free and low in sugar - the best possible chocolate for your health that also tastes divine.
Enjoy some of the finest chocolates in the world at an upscale French chocolatier's only American retail outlet. Their goods are used by many confectioners to create luxury bonbons.
Sample some of the most delicious French-style cakes and pastries at a Union Square bakery that serves and uses specially-chosen Venezuelan cocoa for its products.
Learn how to match the best wine with the most glorious chocolates and desserts right in the heart of Manhattan's Union Square. Take this unforgettable journey through New York's past and its cultural legacy, and you will get the scoop on the chocolate industry right where it happens.
About Zoom Media Productions Zoom Media Productions offers the ultimate chocolate tours of New York City for chocolate
lovers. Get closer to New York's most cherished chocolate boutiques with your VIP behind the scene pass to this very special world of chocolate artisans. In addition to the fabulous chocolate tours, Zoom Media publishes the Chocolate
Zoom Magazine, bringing you the latest news and trends in the cacao
industry.
It's that time of year again: the annual Seduction Meals chocolate gift review for Valentine's Day, but remember to bookmark this page--chocolate gifts should be shared and indulged year-round, not just on this wonderful day that celebrates romance & love. True chocoholics understand that one truffle, one flavor, one tiny box,
is never enough. . Here are some of my
favorites--all gracious gifts for your loved one on Valentine's Day.
Drunken Chocolate Figs Tower - $49.50 We love this combination! Noted for their extremely thin skins and sweet, almost candy-like taste, our Spanish figs are filled by hand with a silky dark 64% Valrhona ganache flavored with Whiskey and enrobed in a thin layer of dark 54% chocolate. The Calabacita variety of fig is grown by a family owned company in "Los Llanillos" in the village of Almoharin located in the Extremadura region of Spain. The chocolate figs are paired with a 15-pc Every Flavor box of our Signature chocolates.
Valentines Bee My Lovebug - $29 Our exquisite salted caramel is touched with fragrant basswood honey from the family owned Draper's Apiary to create irresistibly cute Honey Caramel Bees. Valrhona 64% chocolate is melded with fresh cream and a touch of sugar to perfect the ganache that fills our Valentine Lovebugs. Both creations are painted by hand and each one is a unique expression of love
Chocolat Moderne Mysteries of Love - $60 "Mysteries of Love" Le cœur a ses raisons que la raison ne connaît point. ... The heart has its own reasons which reason can not know. ...(Blaise Pascal, 1623-1662; mathematician AND mystic!).
Let the Mysteries of Love lead you and yours to a leap of faith this Valentine's Day! Our exquisitely hand-painted hearts each have a delicious mystery to reveal -- a dark, dark ganache or a luscious, silky caramel. Beautiful, red bursts of passion stir the emotions before the intense flavors and creamy textures within create a blissfully dizzying ride!
The Chocolate Seduction Club Uncover chocolate treasures all your long. As a member of The Chocolate Seduction Club you will be surprised and seduced as you sample fresh chocolate treats from various regions, produced by celebrated chocolate artisans.
Rose Petal Truffles - $36 We'd like to say these will last longer than flowers, but we're not so sure. Exquisite handmade dark chocolate truffles are filled with dark chocolate rose water ganache, topped with real rose petals and tucked into a beautiful, red, handmade gift
Knipschildt Chocolatier Rose Truffle Box - $32 These
beautiful red handmade paper boxes are filled with rich dark chocolate
truffles with a rose water infused dark chocolate ganachce center tpped
with an edible rose petal.
Ricchiuti Sesame Nougat Box(8pc) - $19 Sesame Nougat...creamy chocolate ganache atop a crispy layer of sesame nougat. Oliver Kita - Studio Collection - $40 For the loves of your life Oliver has created spectacular Valentines gifts, each a unique collection and design.
Romanico's Truffles- $72.00 True
chocoholics understand that one truffle, one flavor, one tiny box, is
never enough. We have taken our inspiration from these chocolate lovers
and created this giant gift box of decadent truffles. 24 truffles Jacques Torres Bon Bons- $50 What
is Jacques famous for? Fresh, high-quality chocolates attractively
packaged in his signature box and affordably priced. 50 bon bons.
Knipschildt Chocolatier Heart Box - $45 Full
of Love! These hand made artisan chocolates are especially designed for
that "someone special" in your life. Packaged in a beautiful heart
shaped handmade paper box, these decadent flavor pairings are matches
made in heaven.
Hotel Chocolat - Secrets & Desires - $75 Inhibitions
melt away as you slip the blindfold over your lover's eyes. And with
heightened senses, let the tantalizing journey in chocolate seduction
begin. You'll experience the gentle creaminess of white chocolate and
fruit of The Beginner, the deep sensual notes of The Curious and then
the racy tingle of The Spicy... all with the melt-in-the-mouth seduction
of luscious champagne truffles. Where will it end? That's for you to
find out...
Christopher Elbow Chocolate Collection- $40 Our
flagship assortment that includes all 21 flavors that we are currently
producing. Flavors rotate throughout the seasons so there will always
be something new and exciting. 21-Piece Collection
Chocolate and Valentine's Day go hand in hand. For me, the most captivating, sensual creations this year by a artisinal chocolatier come from Roni-Sue's of New York City. Take a look at these truffles! I could not help myself--I was immediately seduced. After seeing the photos and reading the ingredients---I was mesmerized to learn about at each and every truffle.
Dark & Stormy, Diablo, Fresh Coconut, Pecan Pie, Portly Fig, Cherries Jubilee, Carrot Cake, and Sesame Cardamon Truffle. There is also a cocktail based collection: The Manhattan, Champagne Mimosa and the Margarita. Naturally, I had to order a box for myself. I will give you an update as soon as they arrive.
Take a look below for a journey of pure Chocolate Seduction! And, due to the recent fascination and enthusiasm for the peculiar mix
of chocolate and bacon (I shouldn't say that until I have tried it), be sure to check out Roni-Sue's Bacon ButterCrunch and Pig Candy. If you try
it please let me know how it is.
Zydeco Handmade perzipan blended with red chile
confit, sweet red pepper leather, red chile jam, fresh chile infused
tequila, sea salt and ground mixed dried pepper mélange topped with
dried jalapeño pepper flakes.
Dark & Stormy Part of Roni-Sue's Cocktail Collection, this Callebaut bittersweet chocolate ganache has dark rum, fresh ginger and lime zest--echoing the flavors of the Caribbean.
Pecan Pie Handmade perzipan with chopped, toasted pecans infused with Knob Creek bourbon
Fresh Coconut Handmade perzipan blended with fresh coconut and dried coconut, infused with coconut rum
Sesame Cardamom Truffle This exotic savory/sweet treat starts withTahini that gives this smooth milk & dark chocolate ganache a particularly creamy texture infused with the incomparable flavor of cardamom pods. Lightly coated in dark chocolate Callebaut couverture and rolled in toasted sesame seeds with a hint of lemongrass--this is a truly unique combination! Absinthe Truffle Callebaut bittersweet chocolate ganache with pear, fennel & anise seed confit and genuine Absinthe liqueur.
Manhattan Part of our Cocktail Collection, this Callebaut bittersweet chocolate ganache features Knob Creek bourbon, sweet vermouth, bitters & a cherry
.Roni's Roses: Red Rose Produced for Valentine's Day and Mother's Day only [also a popular choice as a special order for weddings!] Callebaut bittersweet chocolate ganache center blended with rose petal jam, powdered fresh-dried rose petals & homemade rose liqueur, dipped in dark chocolate and topped with a fresh-dried rose petal.
"Inna' Pickle" Truffle "We sell this one day only, and only
in person at the NYC International Pickle Day Festival on the Lower
East Side! Yes, it's true! If you want to try this fresh &
delicious green gem you'll have to come down to Orchard Street in
September". Handmade perzipan blended with dehydrated cucumbers, Guss's
fresh pickles, and organic cucumber vodka. "Surprisingly good!!"
As you prepare your romantic meal for two this Valentine's Day--what better way to express your love and desire than with chocolate? A favorite
culinary aphrodisiac of many, chocolate contains phenylethylamine - the
same chemical released in your brain when you fall in love, leading to
an excited feeling of infatuation.
This Valentine's Day
try a romantic cocktail party for two with a tempting invitation to
experience any of the seven luscious chocolate cocktail recipes below. I don't know about you, but I want to try each and every drink; you can almost taste the tantalizing pleasures with names like Raspberry White Chocolate Truffle, Hearts Afire, White Chocolate Martini, Chocolate Covered Cherries, Peanut Butter Cup, Death by Chocolate, Almond Joy Martini. Enjoy the moment as you savor that lovin' feeling shaken and stirred.
Chocolate Covered Cherries & White Chocolate Martini
Peanut Butter Cup & Raspberry White Chocolate Truffle
Raspberry White Chocolate Truffle
1-1/2 oz Van Gogh Raspberry Vodka
1/2 oz White chocolate Godiva
1-1/2 oz White crème de Cocoa
1 oz Raspberry Liqueur
3 Raspberries
Combine liquid ingredients in a shaker and shake over ice. Strain into glass. Garnish with raspberries on a pick.
Hearts Afire
2 oz Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate Vodka
4 oz Hot Chocolate
3 Roasted marshmallows on small skewer
Pour Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate Vodka into a mug and add hot chocolate. Garnish with home-roasted marshmallows on a skewer or whipped cream. (Always use caution when handling hot liquids).
White Chocolate Martini
1 oz Van Gogh Vanilla vodka
2 oz White Chocolate Liquor
1 oz Cream
White chocolate shavings or white cocoa powder
Roll rim of martini glass in white chocolate shavings or white cocoa powder. Add all liquids in a shaker and shake over ice. Strain drink into a martini glass.
Chocolate Covered Cherries
1 oz Van Gogh Dutch Chocolate vodka
1 oz Van Gogh Black Cherry vodka
1 oz Crème de cacao
Cream
3 Maraschino cherries
Chocolate syrup
Swirl chocolate syrup around inside of martini glass and place maraschino cherries in the bottom of the glass. Add liquids into a shaker with ice and shake. Pour into martini glass.
Embraced in their signature purple boxes that exudes style and seduction, Vosges Haut-Chocolat is one the of BEST resources for Valentine's Day Gifts of Love. A long-time favorite of mine for sending gifts with that special WOW factor, these delicious artisinal delights are a just a click away.
Vosges HipHop Collection- $29 This
decadent truffle combines white chocolate, Krug ® Champagne and gold
leaf--echoing rap's transition from music to a culture of "bling". The
word "bling" was first used in 1999 by rappers B.G., Juvenile and Baby
Birdman on their track Bling Bling to celebrate their flashy wealth and
expensive diamonds. It quickly became a fad, infiltrating rap and
hip-hop music until recent years, when the phrase became too
commonplace to garner the same street value. Since then, many artists
have spoken out against the bling lifestyle, criticizing it as
promoting materialism in lieu of responsibility. Even still, "bling"
remains a part of hip hop history.
The
flaming heart symbolizes ardent affection and true love. Give our solid
chocolate rock 'n' roll version to whoever makes your heart race. Red
Fire: Mexican ancho & chipotle chillies + Ceylon cinnamon + dark
chocolate.
Vosges_La Petit Hatbox - $95 What better a gift than a mini hatbox filled to the brim with chocolate? Chocolate from our Exotic, Comfort, Couture Cocoa and Exotic Candy Bar collections for whatever mood strikes you. Inside: 9 piece Exotic Truffle Collection, 1/2 lb. Bapchi's Caramel Toffee, Aztec Elixir Cocoa & 2 Exotic Candy Bars, in our signature purple hatbox.
Our signature collection and best selling truffles are tucked in a purple heart. Each purple box is hand-tied with a satin bow and includes an enclosure booklet describing the flavors and telling our unique truffle stories.
Great Gatsby Collection - $42 Inspired by the famous love story of the Great Gatsby and the love of his life, Daisy, I created a collection of two decadent truffles. Rich dark chocolate swirled with bubbly brut Champagne and topped with a red rose petal completes the Gatsby truffle. The delicate Daisy truffle pairs white chocolate with pink rosé Champagne from Might I treat you to some decadent champagne truffles kissed with a rose?
Le Chocolat en Rose Truffles - $39 "When you press me to your heart, I'm in a world apart, a world where roses bloom." Our new, Pink Champagne truffles combine Piper Heidsieck brut rosè Champagne in 65% cacao dark chocolate, rolled in fragrant rose bud poudre. Throughout the Balkans, Persia and India, the rose is cherished for its delicate parfum. Regional cuisine celebrates the rose; its scent wafts from the nape of the neck and the insides of the wrists. Vosges Chocolate-of-the-Month Club - $246 for six months A 9 piece dark chocolate truffle gift box and other dark haut-chocolat creations arrive with the light of the full moon and follow the Celtic lunar cycle. Inside each delivery, we describe the significance of the lunar name and the vibrations of the moon in its phases of Full, New, Waxing and Waning as your body and senses ease into chocolate bliss.
For chocolate lovers everywhere, I present this wonderfully creative recipe for German Chocolate mini cakes. This riff on German chocolate cake features individual mini cakes, their sides enrobed in chocolate, topped with the classic caramel-coconut-pecan filling/topping. While traditional German chocolate cake is a sweet, lighter-colored cake-more milk chocolate than dark¬-our version is devil's food and delicious. By the way, German chocolate cake has nothing to do with the country, and everything to do with Sam German, an employee of the Baker's Chocolate Company, who came up with this recipe in 1852.
German Chocolate Mini Cakes Recipe and photograph courtesy of King Arthur Flour Yields 12 servings
Cake
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks, 6 ounces) unsalted butter*
1 3/4 cups (12 1/4 ounces) Baker's Special sugar or granulated sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons espresso powder
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups (8 1/2 ounces) King Arthur Unbleached All-Purpose Flour
3/4 cup (2 1/4 ounces) Dutch-process cocoa
4 large eggs
1 1/2 cups (12 ounces) cool water
*If you use salted butter, reduce the salt in the recipe to 1/4 teaspoon.
Icing
1 cup (6 ounces) semisweet chocolate chips
1/2 cup (4 ounces) heavy cream
Topping
6 tablespoons (3 ounces) unsalted butter
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup (2 ounces) half and half or milk
1 cup (7 1/2 ounces) light brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/8 teaspoon pecan flavor or pralines & cream flavor, optional
1 cup (2 1/2 ounces) shredded or flaked coconut, sweetened or unsweetened, toasted*
1 cup (3 3/4 ounces) chopped pecans, toasted*
*Toast the pecans and coconuts till golden brown in a 350°F oven. This
is most easily done if you place each in a 9" round cake pan, and put
them in the oven as soon as you pull out the finished cake. Bake for
about 10 minutes, watching carefully towards the end, as the coconut
will brown quickly. Remove from the oven, and stir the coconut to
distribute the less-browned and more-browned pieces together evenly.
This recipe was submitted to Seduction Meals by Jennifer
"I am kind of a fanatic for fondue, as I think it has to be one of the
most romantic meals out there, so I have a fondue recipe to submit.
This is my own recipe, too. If you want to add a fun texture and flavor to this dessert, set out
plates of shredded coconut, crushed oreos, and graham crackers. You
simply roll your chocolate covered treat in the goodies on the plate
and enjoy!"
Caramel Almond Chocolate Fondue
Ingredients:
1 (9.5 ounce) Bag of Dove chocolate with caramel centers, wrappers removed
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 Tablespoons sliced almonds
Strawberries
Bananas, sliced one inch thick
Pineapple, cut in one inch cubes
Brownies, cut in one inch cubes
Directions
With a double boiler, melt the chocolate with caramel centers.
Slowly
add cream, stirring constantly, until you have reached the desired
texture. It should be silky smooth, without chunks of chocolate.
Sprinkle the sliced almonds on top and serve in a fondue pot.
Use the
strawberries, bananas, pineapple, and brownies as dippers.
"These brownies were a happy accident", says Michael Ricchuiti of Ricchiuti Chocolates. "Whenever I'd make marshmallows I'd be left with a bowl of oddly shaped trimmings that tasted great. My wife Jacky suggested I toss them in a batch of our brownies with some nuts and test them out at the Saturday morning Farmers' Market. They were a hit. Make them and you'll see why."
Michael Ricchuiti of Ricchuiti Confections shares his secrets for baking these exquisite peanut butter chocolate chunk cookies.
"I've always liked the flavor of peanut butter cookies, but was turned off by the dryness and gritty texture that comes from using flour. This recipe is great because it uses organic peanut butter as binder rather than flour. While you're making them, the dough might seem a little different than what you're used to. It'll be more wet seem to fall apart a little bit. Don't worry. Once they're baked, everything falls into place and you'll really appreciate the flavor and consistency organic peanut butter gives these cookies".
Line the bottoms of two 12-by-18-inch sheet pans with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, stir the peanut butter, sugar, egg, baking soda and kosher salt until combined.
Stir in the chocolate and peanuts.
Using a small, greased ice cream scoop, measure out the dough in teaspoon sized balls.
Place the dough on the prepared pans, spacing them 2 inches apart.
Bake on the middle shelves of the oven, rotating the pans 180 degrees halfway through the baking time, until lightly golden and spread to a puffy mound, about 12 to 14 minutes.
Sprinkle lightly with fleur de sel.
Let cool completely on the pans on wire racks.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to week.
*Look for an organic peanut butter where peanuts are the only ingredient listed. These nut butters contain no added sugar and have a great mouthfeel. The peanuts used are generally of higher quality and have been roasted darker for a rich flavor.
**Make sure to use a fleur de sel rather than a grey sea salt. Fleur de sel is an unprocessed salt, hand raked and harvested from the premium, top layers of salt beds in France. "Fleur de sel" translates to "flower of salt," which refers to the scent of violets the salt develops as it bleaches and dries in the sun. The flavor, like the aroma, is more floral and less briny than other sea salts.
True chocoholics understand that one truffle, one flavor, one tiny box, is never enough. Feed each other lusciously delicious artisinal chocolates served with Champagne or Prosecco. Here are some of my favorites--all gracious gifts for your loved one on Valentine's Day.
Knipschildt Chocolatier Rose Truffle Box - $32 These beautiful red handmade paper boxes are filled with rich dark chocolate truffles with a rose water infused dark chocolate ganachce center tpped with an edible rose petal.
Ricchiuti Sesame Nougat Box (8pc) - $19 Sesame Nougat...creamy chocolate ganache atop a crispy layer of sesame nougat. A January exclusive!...Order Now!
Oliver Kita - Studio Collection - $40 For the loves of your life Oliver has created spectacular Valentines gifts, each a unique collection and design.
Pierre Marcolini's Round Heart Box - $45 This Black Round Box beautifully presents 15 Coeur Framboise chocolates. The hearts contain raspberry-chocolate ganache centers, coated with a white chocolate house blend. The red coloring, Rouge Cochenille, is sprayed onto the finished chocolates, making this collection a favorite romantic gift.
Romanico's Truffles - $72.00 True chocoholics understand that one truffle, one flavor, one tiny box, is never enough. We have taken our inspiration from these chocolate lovers and created this giant gift box of decadent truffles. 24 truffles
Jacques Torres Bon Bons - $50 What is Jacques famous for? Fresh, high-quality chocolates attractively packaged in his signature box and affordably priced. 50 bon bons.
Knipschildt Chocolatier Heart Box - $45 Full of Love! These hand made artisan chocolates are especially designed for that "someone special" in your life. Packaged in a beautiful heart shaped handmade paper box, these decadent flavor pairings are matches made in heaven.
Pierre Marcolini's Petit Truffles (9 pieces) - $25.75 Pierre Marcolini's famous truffles are created in three distinct flavors ranging from a traditional dark chocolate truffle to the exotic Tonka bean infusion.
Hotel Chocolat - Secrets & Desires - $75 Inhibitions melt away as you slip the blindfold over your lover's eyes. And with heightened senses, let the tantalising journey in chocolate seduction begin. You'll experience the gentle creaminess of white chocolate and fruit of The Beginner, the deep sensual notes of The Curious and then the racy tingle of The Spicy... all with the meltin-the-mouth seduction of luscious champagne truffles. Where will it end? That's for you to find out...
Richart Chocolate Little Gourmet Collection with Chocolate Card - $32 The best way to taste both solid and filled chocolates at the same time...it is sure to please chocolate lovers of all ages. For a unique touch add a pure chocolate card with special message. 9 pieces of chocolate and a chocolate message.
Christopher Elbow Chocolate Collection- $40 Our flagship assortment that includes all 21 flavors that we are currently producing. Flavors rotate throughout the seasons so there will always be something new and exciting. 21-Piece Collection
The bottle is mysterious and provocative--the drink is distinguished
and luminous. Chocolate is a sumptuous aphrodisiac, between the two how
could you go wrong? For a new sensation, end your Seduction Meal on a high note with a burst of electricity that is sure to heat up the night: A glass of Cointreau Noir paired with Chuao's Firecracker Truffles.
Chuao Firecracker!
Arouse your senses with Chuao's
unusual, tantalizing confection. Hand your partner a piece of chocolate
and watch their expression as they experience the unexpected. Exquisite
Venezuelan premium dark chocolate slowly melts on your tongue, as sensual explosions of tiny champagne bubbles snap away in your
mouth, ending in playful popping sensations and a spicy kick!
Cointreau Noir By blending the perfect balance of sweet and bitter orange with Rémy Martin, the world's finest cognac--Cointreau Noir is born. A luminous golden color, Cointreau Noir has beautiful, broad legs that flow gracefully down the inside of a glass, and its taste is as smooth as its pour. Ever so gentle sweet notes (such as vanilla, honey and caramel) linger on the palate just enough to enhance the spirit's romantic nose and flawless finish. Cointreau Noir can be appreciated neat or simply on the rocks - there is nothing to add.
What do you get when you mix together seductively dark chocolate, spicy chili peppers, thyme, golden flax seeds, and crisped rice? An exotic love potion sure to attract... like bees to honey! And the best part, you don't have to whip this up in a cauldron over a hot stove, someone's done all the hard work for you. All you need is someone to tempt.
From Belgium chocolatier, Newlife, comes ALPHA-- a mix of deliciously dark chocolate with golden roasted flax seeds and crisped rice. A tempting crunchy treat, ALPHA gets a healthy boost with Omega 3 from the flax seeds. Comes in in three flavors: Pure, Chili Pepper, and Thyme. You can order Alpha Chocolate online at NewTree.com
This salacious recipe was sent to Seduction Meals by John of Amherst, MA. Get ready for an overwhelming sensation of pure pleasure.
"Chocolat Pot de Creme is pure seduction. It's best eaten warm when it is silky and flows over your tongue--the deep taste of chocolate taken in your mouth in the form of soft, silky waves. The seduction is so deep you must take it slowly. Pot de Creme are closest to heavenly when eaten warm and served with a dollop of whip cream"
chocolat pot de creme makes 6 to 8 Pot de Creme cups...you know you'll want more than one!
2 cups light cream
1/8 cup sugar
4 oz. semi sweet chocolate
6 yolks
1/4 tsp. vanilla
pinch of salt
These are best made in proper Pot de Creme containers with lids. If other types of ramekins are used they must be covered tightly with tin foil. The surface of the custard must never be exposed throughout the bake.
Directions
Place 6 yolks in bowl
Place 1 1/2 cups light cream, pinch of salt and sugar in a heavy bottom sauce pan. Heat over medium heat until sugar is dissolved.
Chop chocolate into small pieces. In a second heavy bottom pan place chocolate and 1/2 cup cream over low heat. Warm just to melt chocolate until the mixture is smooth. Add vanilla. Note: Avoid excessive heat. Do not cook chocolate. If you prefer, you can melt chocolate in a ban marie instead.
Slowly add cream/sugar mixture to chocolate, lightly stir to maintain a even texture.
Whisk a small amount of the hot chocolate mixture into the yolks. Add the yolk mixture back into the chocolate and stir over low heat until slightly thicker. Stir constantly.
Strain chocolate mixture using a medium mesh strainer into a liquid measuring cup with a lip. Carefully pour into Pot de Creme containers (with lids) or foil covered ramekins. fill about 3/4 of the way full, making sure chocolate is not touching the surface of the lid or aluminum foil when covered.
Bake in a water bath at 300 degrees until the custard is still very "jiggly" on top. Plus/Minus 30 minutes. It's VERY important to remove the custard from the oven when the surface is still quite loose.
Cooking time varies with size of containers and individual ovens. Do not over cook. It will continue to cook after removed from oven as well as set as they cool.
Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on top
When baking you need to keep checking the consistency of the custard by removing the lids with tongs and tapping the side of the containers. The Pots de Creme is done when it has a loose jiggle. The whole idea with this dessert is to have it be really silky. You want it to be just thick enough to sit on a the spoon when you are eating it. The longer you bake it the harder the final product will be. the aim is a chocolat pot de creme that is silky, smooth and melts on your tongue. MMmmm!
Bored of enjoying your chocolate in a simple cookie, cake or confection? Let's get creative...make your own chocolate body paint (sweet or spicy to match your mood). Choose your canvas, lift your brush, and paint away.
For inspiration check out Hotel Chocolat, a British owned luxury chocolate manufacturer. The site offers a wide range of premium quality chocolates perfect for gifts or pure self indulgence. Here you will find gourmet cooking products, specialty chocolate gifts, and recipes. I couldn't resist sharing the recipe for chocolate body paint when I read... "A luscious, chocolaty concoction that will bring out your inner Picasso - what you choose to paint is entirely up to you..."
Microwave Mix all of the ingredients together in a microwaveable bowl, heat on full power for 1 minute. Stir and blast for another 30 seconds or until fully melted.
Stove Top Mix all of the ingredients together in a bowl. Gently heat the bowl over a pan of boiling water (double-boiler), stirring occasionally until the chocolate has fully melted.
Leave to cool. Collect your painting utensils and subject - then paint onto a suitable canvas. Add a bottle of champagne, so you can sip little delicate bubbles as you review your canvas and contemplate your next stroke. Picasso never had it so good. Well...OK, I take that back.
Have a canvas, but no time to cook?
You can buy a Chocolate Dipping Adventure. With the crunch of toasted crostini, the succulence of cherries, the
yielding softness of marshmallow... all laden with soft, melting
chocolate. Simply heat the chocolate and throw yourself into a
seriously satisfying chocolate adventure.
This Valentine's day enchant your lover with exotic gifts of chocolate. A luscious gift and alluring aphrodisiac, you can send a box of chocolates with a romantic invitation for a fiery HOT Seduction Meal at your place, or if you prefer, you can save this gift to share for your seduction dessert. Just be sure to order in time for delivery on the Valentine's Day.
Oliver Kita's line of artisan fine chocolates are sure to please leaving the recipient of this gift begging for more. For the love of your life, Oliver has created a spectacular Valentine's gift with this 4 Tiered box filled with exotic chocolates such as Fig and Pistachio, Tibetan Tiger Heart, Loveletter Hearts, Vermillion Fruit Heart, and Japanese Berry Truffle. Gotta Have It! $110
Romanicos truly understands the art of presentation with beautifully handcrafted exotic chocolate and stunning designs. I have included a few of the many wonderful boxed chocolates from this master artisan such as the Aphrodite Collection: The goddess of love, Aphrodite, now comes in the shape of luscious,
sensual chocolates. This collection has been designed to inspire
passion, spark desire, and provoke an ecstasy of pleasure in those who
taste it. There are delicious truffles collections inside beautifully packaged presentations, and the unique 1-lb. Art Bar, with chocolate at the bottom and
white chocolate on the top; decorated with dried cranberries,
pistachios, sesame seeds and dark chocolate is like none other. Each bar is a unique work of art, made one by one. A perfect gift on any occasion. Gotta Have It!
Jaques Torres:
Why not surprise your lover with champagne and chocolate - together in one sweet little package, or grab your Valentine and pucker up but not before handing him/her Jacques's custom-designed heart-shaped box filled with 35 of his favorite assorted bon-bons. And we love the "kisses" chocolates. Gotta Have It! Vosges Haute Chocolat is a treasure chest of pure pleasure. Check out their web site for all your options. There are luxurious collections of chocolate packaged in a purple gift box filled with dark, milk and white chocolate truffles infused with exotic and traditional spices, herbs and flowers from around the world. You can select chocolate gifts paired with a bottle of Krug Champagne Brut Grand Cuvee or Joseph Perrier Brut Rose. Try Vosges' exotic truffle collection. And to spice things up--the Aztec Collection comes with a bottle of Clos de Los Siete, Argentina, 2005 a flashy, violet red wine that pairs well with this South American inspired Aztec
Collection of chocolates.
And I have to mention their Groove Collection: Chocolate paired with the perfect CD. Gotta Have it! $91 - $325
Chocolate Modern will unlock the Mysteries of Love and other enticements for Valentine's Day.
"Mysteries of Love" are passionately painted hearts filled with their darkest ganache and most luscious caramels:
The Lover (passion fruit caramel), Madame 'X'tasy (salted Illy espresso caramel), and Caramel Caresse (pear caramel) Amarena Mon Amor are discrete object of desire: Chocolate covered cherries taken to new
heights-- Big, tart, juicy Italian Amarena cherries finished with a
sophisticated vodka-infused syrup. Irresistible... addictive... a far
cry from merely cordial! Gotta Have It! $32 - $60
Martine's Chocolates has created a beautiful heart made of Marzipan roses--a unique gift indeed. Martine's chocolates are upscale confections handmade fresh daily, right in
front of customers, by Martine's own chefs chocolatiers,
at Martine's Chocolates shops in Manhattan. This gift must be ordered 3 weeks in advance so do it right away! Gotta Have It! Knipschildt Chocolates. What do your presents say about you? Especially when you send the most expensive chocolate in the world - a $250 truffle. Each hand-crafted Knipschildt chocolate is an artistic handmade jewel; and to prove the point, there is Knipschildt's La Madeline au Truffle which was
recognized by Forbes Magazine as the most expensive chocolate in the
world. La Madeline au Truffle starts with a decadent 70% Valrhona dark
chocolate, heavy cream, sugar, truffle oil and vanilla as the base for
the rich decadent ganache. A rare French Perigord truffle (a rare
mushroom) is then surrounded by this rich decadent ganache; it is
enrobed in Valrhona dark chocolate and then rolled in fine cocoa
powder. The result is pure extravagance! Lying on a bed of sugar pearls
in a silver box tied with a ribbon.This product is made to order and ships within 14 days of order date. Gotta Have it! $250
NEWTREE Belgian chocolate is about having FUN and eating it too.
With playful names and a medley of flavors to tempt any mood, this gift
is sure to put a smile on your lover's face. Be sure to try SEXY: SEXY
is chocolate in stilettos. Spice up your day with dark chocolate,
warmed by the taste of ginger. Naturally stimulating guarana extract
adds an extra perk for a seductive treat, or BLUSH: Dark chocolate
kissed by sumptuous cherries, a taste so sinful it will make you BLUSH.
I wish they bundled their bars for the ultimate lover's package made up
of Vigor, Sexy, Blush, Renew, Forgiveness, and Crave. Gotta Have It! Just under $5 a bar, mix and match your prefect blend.
Red Envelope, one of my favorite online places for gifts has a few special treats:
Romantic fortune cookies:Confucius meets Cupid. These crispy fortune cookies are cloaked in
luscious chocolate, but the real treat awaits inside. You get 1 dozen cookies, each scripted for romance: "You are difficult for others to
resist," "Naughtiness is a virtue" and "Distance and time may test your
heart, but true love will always find you." Gotta Have It! $30
Theo aphrodisiac chocolates:
Arouse the senses. This limited edition Aphrodisiac Collection features
chocolates combined with herbs and spices known for their aphrodisiac
qualities. These small masterpieces will give way to the heat of your mouth and
linger on your tongue. From sensual rose and aromatic lavender to spicy
jalapeño and Ceylon cinnamon, these unique flavor combinations are
designed to warm every heart. Gotta Have It! $42
Bloomsberry Chocolate Bars: Deliciously saucy, these sweet sets give chocolate lovers some spicy food for thought with
clever messages for both the single set (pick up bar, oral pleasures, eat me, and instant gratification) and those who have engaged in
matrimony( "things are more exciting in the dark," "marital bliss," "lusty" and "dark secrets" Gotta Have It! $25
Heart Shaped Fondue Setfrom Amazon.com: An extra sweet way to enjoy Valentine's Day, anniversaries, birthdays and more! This adorable fondue set is the perfect way to create a
romantic yet delicious after-dinner treat. This set includes: Red
Heart-Shaped Pot Black metal Stand Tea Candle Holder 2 Dipping Forks
with heart-shaped handles. Gotta Have It! $22
Holiday Gift Idea: Some gifts are meant to be remembered. With names like Madame "X"tasy, Karma Sutra,
Hazelnut Hysterie,Sesame Samba, The
Player, and Havana Heat--you know you are in for something extraordinary. For the discerning gourmand I share with you the exotic elixirs of Chocolat Moderne. Below are a few examples of truly seductive Holiday gifts with a choice of aromas spanning
the Mediterranean and Orient. You and your loved one
will be whisked away in bold, daring directions of delight.
Amarena Mon Amour (Gotta Have It!) Discrete object of desire, Chocolate covered cherries are taken to new
heights. Big, tart, juicy Italian Amarena cherries finished with a
sophisticated vodka-infused syrup. Irresistible... addictive... a far
cry from merely cordial! A sexy red crocodile box opens to reveal 27 bonbons presented as ruby and gold hand-painted dark chocolate gemstones
tucked into cascading gold tiers ($64.00). Also available in a four tier box - with 36 bonbons. ($84.00)
The Kimono Collection(Gotta Have It!) An elegant theme inspired by Japan, THE KIMONO COLLECTION chocolates are beautifully designed. Cherry blossoms grace vintage kimono patterns and are echoed in the form of chocolate shapes. Rounding out the artistry of this sophisticated collection is the 19th century woodblock print (ukiyo-e) of two ladies in kimono by the Master Eishi Hosoda ("Chobunsai"). The six flavors in the collection include three made with traditional Japanese ingredients: Shiso (Japanese mint), tamari soy and sesame, and three of our own favorites: strawberry, apricot and pecan which believe it or not are really popular in Japan as well!
Ganaches: Shiso Soft: dark ganache with Japanese mint and lime Strawberry Float: white ganache with strawberry
Caramels: Soy Salt: caramel salted with tamari soy sauce Apricote Bask: caramel with apricots and armagnac
And my all time favorites...the "Bistro Bar"(Gotta Have It!) The bars are covered
in fine dark chocolate and filled with truffle, caramel and praliné
flavors from artisanal chocolate assortments. The square shape is
unusually elegant. Deep sections provide ample repositories for our
luscious fillings and are easy to separate for relishing one by one. Go for the "Bistro Bar Bundle"--stacked together and tied with a bow, five bistro bars make an excellent gift. The Bistro Bar is available in the following flavors at $7.00 each:
CRUNCHY PRALINES Hazelnut Hystérie Deeply roasted hazelnut paste with milk chocolate Parlez Pistache Toasted pistachio paste with white chocolate Sesame Samba Toasted sesame paste with milk chocolate Pumpkin Pique-Nique Toasted pumpkin seed paste, milk chocolate and pumpkin pie spices
SOFT CARAMELS La Dolce Grapefruit With fresh squeezed grapefruit Banane Flambée With banana purée and Courvoisier Cognac Apricote Bask With apricot purée and Bas Armagnac Caramel Caresse With Poire William purée and Eau de Vie Madame 'X'tasy With dark chocolate, Illy Espresso, and fleur de sel
SILKY TRUFFLES Havana Heat Dark chocolate with habañero pepper (pleasantly hot!) Raspberry Rendez-vous Dark chocolate with raspberry purée The Player Dark chocolate with Single Malt Scotch
Holiday Gift Idea: This holiday season why not satisfy your chocolate loving amour with
homemade chocolate dipped fruits such as strawberries, apples, figs,
raspberries or pears. It is easy to prepare and a delicious gourmet treat that is sensual to eat and easy to gift wrap. Feeding someone a chocolate dipped strawberry is a great way to end your Seduction Meal before moving on the the real main course.
If you are pressed for time I have included links to wonderfully prepared and packaged gifts that can be served up for your next romantic rendezvous; or you can impress your loved one with a special delivery in time for the holidays.
Home Made Chocolate Dipped Strawberries 12 extra-large perfectly ripened strawberries, green caps attached, preferably with 1 inch stem 1 tablespoon of shortening 2 cups of dark or milk chocolate bars, coarsely chopped (option) 1/8 cup of finely chopped hazelnuts (you can use peanuts, pecans or walnuts)
Line a cooking sheet with wax paper and set aside
Melting the Chocolate In the top of a double boiler over
simmering water, melt the chocolate stirring until the chocolate smoothens out. Be sure the chocolate stays hot otherwise it may clump when you are dipping the fruit.
Dipping the Fruit Holding the top of the strawberry, slowly dip 2/3's of the way into the melted chocolate. Quickly remove the fruit with a clockwise swirling motion to spin the dripping chocolate off, resulting in a smooth, even coating. Invert your hand to point the strawberry towards the ceiling--this will allow the chocolate to settle and briefly air dry. (Option) Dip the tip of the strawberry in to the ground hazelnuts, gently rolling in a circular motion to cover the tip all around.
Place the strawberry, gently resting on one side to cool down/dry. Hand feed each other one strawberry at a time. If you are sending this as a gift, you can store strawberries in the refrigerator in an airtight container between layers of waxed paper. Try to find a box that has sections to place a strawberry in chamber.
Don't have time for home-made gifts, here are a few delicious gifts to satisfy any gourmet sweet tooth.
John and Kiras Chocolate Covered Figs($47Gotta Have It!) We love this combination! Noted for their extremely thin skins and sweet, almost candy-like taste, these Spanish figs are filled by hand with a silky dark 64% Valrhona ganache and enrobed in a thin layer of dark 54% chocolate. The Calabacita variety of fig is grown by a family owned company in "Los Llanillos" in the village of Almoharin located in the Extremadura region of Spain. The delights are paired with a 15-pc Every Flavor box of our Signature chocolates. To ensure freshness, please enjoy our chocolate figs within two weeks
Red Envelope: Chocolate Covered Strawberries($55-$110 Gotta Have It!) A dozen luscious berries are dipped in chocolate and delivered overnight to ensure freshness. Six white and six dark chocolate strawberries are drizzled with premium dark chocolate.
Red Envelope:Chocolate Covered Raspberries($25 Gotta Have It!) An extra decadent take on the venerable traditions of chocolate fondue and chocolate-dipped strawberries--these raspberry truffles each contain a whole hand-picked, farm-fresh raspberry at their centers. Rich dark chocolate is poured around them and they are finished with a raspberry swirl on top. Twelve truffles arrive nestled into individual fluted paper cups and tucked into a box.
Red Envelope: Chocolate Covered Pear ($22: Gotta Have It!) A more perfect pair of juicy fruit and rich confectionary would be difficult to find. This fresh bosc pear gets the full sweet-and-crunchy treatment--it's enrobed in caramel, coated with walnuts and drizzled in gourmet chocolate. Pure Seduction!
Red Envelope:Chocolate Caramel Apples($25 Gotta Have It!) These caramel apples are innovative and decadent versions of the traditional harvest favorite. You can choose between an apple that is drenched in caramel and gourmet chocolates then rolled in walnuts and dried cranberries; or try the giant Fuji apple is dipped in chocolate and then coated with crushed butter finger candy. Each apple arrives wrapped in cellophane and tied up with a big, red grosgrain bow.
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What could be more perfect than aphrodisiac-themed truffles? With ingredients like kumamoto oyster-infused cream, champagne, and pearl dust; mamajuana and chamomile; and ancho chillies and Ceylon cinnamon, this is a box of chocolates unlike any you've tasted before.
