Chocolate - Satisfying Delights

To some people, art and music are the most beautiful and pleasing things on the planet.  To others TV and video games can fill that void, others love shopping. However, for me the most satisfying pleasure our world has to offer is chocolate.

Chocolate has long been thought to have "pleasure properties" that scientists continue to try and uncover. However, the science behind it does not interest me as much as the many different ways to enjoy this delight sent from heaven.

Here are two of my favorite, most guilty chocolate pleasures that can turn any frown into a smile, and warm the heart of anyone:

·         Bailey's Truffle Fudge Recipe

·         Chocolate Grand Marnier Tart Recipe

Bailey's Truffle Fudge

Let me stop your first question: yes, this is as good as it sounds.  You will need three cups of semisweet chocolate chips, one cup of vanilla chips, a fourth cup butter, one cup of Bailey's Irish crème, a half cup of chopped nuts.  For the topping you need another cup of semisweet chocolate chips, a half cup of vanilla chips, two tablespoons of butter, and four tablespoons of Bailey's. Your first step is to melt all the chips down into a smooth paste (do not burn!). Next, add the butter, Bailey's, and powdered sugar until completely mixed in. Find an 8-10' pan, spray with vegetable oil, and lay the chocolate mixed evenly on it.  Follow the same procedure for the topping, spreading it on top of the fudge when completely smooth.  Cover the pan with plastic and refrigerate for an hour, and serve when hard!

Chocolate Grand Marnier Tart

For this recipe you will need a box of frozen raspberries or strawberries (choose your favorite), four brownies, a pint of vanilla ice cream, four table spoons of chocolate syrup, and two tablespoons of walnuts.  To make and serve this dish brings out two of your fanciest desert glasses. Split the brownies into each of these and filled half the cup with ice cream and berries. Then create layers with the rest of the cup of syrup, more ice cream, and more fruit. When you reach the top sprinkle walnuts for the finishing touch!

For More Information

If you would like more information on cooking with chocolate, other recipes, or cooking tips, visit www.cdkitchen.com to bring variety and fun to your kitchen today!