(Hot Chocolate) Cocoa Blocks

Southern Polar Bear's Note:

Simply swirl these blocks of chocolate into a mug of steaming hot milk for a special treat! Another great recipe from King Arthur Flour.

• Total Time: 12 hrs 30 mins
• Prep Time: 30 mins
• Cook Time: 12 hrs

Ingredients:

Serves: 36

Yield: 3.0 dozen

• ½ cup heavy cream
• 14 ounces sweetened condensed milk (1 1/4 cups)
• 3 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips
• ¾ cup unsweetened baking chocolate
• wooden stick

Directions:

1. 1) Line an 8" x 8" pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
2. 2) Heat the cream and condensed milk over low heat until steaming.
3. 3) Remove from the heat and add the chocolate; allow it to gently melt.
4. 4) After about 10 minutes, return the chocolate mixture to low heat to completely melt the chocolate.
5. 5) Whisk vigorously until the mixture is thick and shiny.
6. 6) Pour the chocolate mixture into the pan; shake the pan gently to level.
7. 7) Set aside overnight to slowly set up.
8. 8) Run a knife around the edge of the pan and turn out onto a clean cutting surface.
9. 9) Slice into 1 ¼" cubes. Heat a knife in hot water and wipe dry before each cut, for smoothest cuts.
10. 10) Stick a wooden stick into the center of each block.
11. 11) Wrap in waxed paper, parchment, or plastic wrap to store.
12. 12) You can also add a few drops of flavoring oil (like hazelnut, coffee, or vanilla) to the mixture, or roll the blocks in cocoa or crushed candy canes, to kick it up a notch.

Reviews

[elisechristiane]

I made these for my friends and teachers for Christmas, and they were excellent! I added marshmallows onto the lollipop stick too and thought that looked cute. Also, I thought the hot chocolate blocks tasted good without milk. Very rich, but good! Will definitely be making them again!

[Chef #1269563]

These blocks are yummy and very easy to make. I gave them away as gifts too, which received raves and requests for the recipe. I will be making them every year and in between.