Easter is quickly approaching and dying eggs are part of the fun.
Decorate with lots of cute bunnies.
Enjoy delicious Easter-themed cookies.
And devour lots of chocolate. What’s the best thing after Easter? The after-Easter candy sales! Lol
I hope you have a wonderful weekend, and I wish you a Happy Easter, Happy Spring, and Happy Crafting!
It’s that time of year again when stores are filled with mouth watering chocolate treats. With a few simple ingredients, you can make chocolate candy at home, including many of your favorites. Let’s take a look at the process and some of the options to get us started. Ready? Set. Let’s go!
Cacao – Well, they don’t look like much in their raw form, but these cacao seeds are transformed into the mouth watering chocolate treats we have come to adore.
Candy making is easy to do at home using small chocolate wafers called candy melts, which are available in milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, and assorted flavors, such as peppermint and strawberry.
When melted, they begin to resemble the chocolate we’ve been consuming since childhood, and the possibilities are endless.
Chocolate molds are available in an extraordinary variety, including those for making solid chocolates, truffles, candy bars, and 2-piece chocolate boxes. Simply pour the liquefied chocolate into the mold and refrigerate per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Most beginners start by making solid chocolates.
A marbleized effect is achieved by swirling two different kinds of chocolate together during the melting process.
This chocolate egg box, perfect for any Easter basket, looks impressive and is easy to make with a two-piece mold. Be careful removing it from the mold to prevent breakage.
Bon Bons, also known as truffles, are easy to make. Click here for instructions.
These truffles have a chocolate hazelnut filling.
Cherry crème filling with a maraschino cherry is cloaked in chocolate and crushed nuts.
Peanut butter and chocolate are a great combination. Coat the bottom and sides of the mold with chocolate. Add the peanut butter filling and top off with a layer of chocolate. Refrigerate and in a short time you will be enjoying homemade peanut butter cups.
Have you ever eaten a 100Grand candy bar? It’s a delicious combination of crispy chocolate with a gooey caramel center. Click here for instructions.
Chocolate dipping is fun for the whole family.
Are Kit Kat bars your favorite? Make your own version at home by chocolate covering vanilla sugar wafer cookies.
Chocolate covered Oreos are a yummy treat. As an alternative, you could combine chocolate covered graham crackers with marshmallows to make S’mores.
Have you noticed how expensive chocolate covered pretzels can be? Make your own and finish with jimmies, crushed nuts, or rainbow sprinkles.
Bananas and strawberries taste great dipped in chocolate.
Gourmet apples are very expensive. Melt some chocolate, place apples on sticks, and drizzle with icing or another type of chocolate. Set on a tray, and if desired add chocolate chips or shavings, or sprinkles.
Chocolate covered caramels are sure to please. Melt caramels in a pan, and allow cooling time. When the caramel has hardened, cut into bars and dip in chocolate.
Chocolate covered coconut is a popular combo. Make coconut filling in a pan, cut into bars and dip in chocolate.
Presentation is everything. For a more professional look, use a cake-decorating bag, filled with chocolate or icing, to pipe on details, such as polka dots or stripes. You might also consider sprinkling the moist chocolate with coconut, cinnamon, or crushed nuts. A nice box or basket showcases your candy and is ready for gift giving.
For more chocolaty goodness, please read: “Chocolate – How Sweet It Is!”
Happy Candy Making and Happy Crafting!
Did you know that many of your favorite candies can be made at home? Recipes for those shown below can be easily found online, and I have included tips for making these delicious treats. Let’s get started!
The Basics of Candy Making:
Milk Chocolate Candy Melts
Homemade candy usually begins with candy melts, which come in many flavors, including milk, white and dark chocolate, strawberry, mint, and caramel. Melting can be done on the stove or in a microwave.
Hand Dipping Chocolate
Question – What can you dip in chocolate? Answer – Everything from marshmallows and strawberries to Oreos, potato chips and Twinkies. Many candy confections require dipping as the final step.
Candy Molds
Simply pour melted candy into the mold and refrigerate. Candy molds are available in an extraordinary variety, including those for making solid chocolates, truffles, candy bars, hard candies, and lollipops.
Solid Chocolates:
Halloween Candy
Solid chocolate candy is the best place to start for beginners. Seasonal candy molds are available for every holiday. You can change the color and flavor by choosing different candy melts.
Chocolate Lollipops
Colorful accents can be added to chocolate in two ways: Prior to pouring the melted chocolate, place small candies in the bottom of the mold, or hand-paint mold details with candy melts in alternate colors.
Filled Chocolates:
Rolos
To make Rolos, melt chocolate, and pour it into the mold, coating all sides and the bottom. Pour out the excess chocolate, add the caramel center, and top with more chocolate. Refrigerate, and enjoy.
Andes Mints
Andes Mints are made in shallow molds by alternating layers of dark chocolate and creamy mint filling.
Malted Balls
Malted milk powder is the key ingredient in these poppable candies, which can be shaped by hand or with piping bag and then dip in melted chocolate
Peppermint Patty
Dark chocolate and peppermint extract are perfectly balanced. Shape the mint filling into balls, flatten them like coins, and then dip in chocolate.
Peanut Butter Cups
Peanut butter cups are made by coating the bottom and sides of the mold with chocolate. Add the peanut butter filling and seal the top with more chocolate. Refrigerate and enjoy this delicious combo.
Chocolate Pralines
Chocolate pralines are a mixture of chocolate and cream with hazelnuts, almonds or pecans. Depending upon the recipe, you can drop spoonfuls onto parchment paper, or use candy molds.
Popular Candy Bars:
Hershey’s Chocolate Bar
Hershey bars have been favorites for ages. They are also the number one choice for making S’mores. Simply melt chocolate, pour into the mold and refrigerate.
Nestle Crunch
Mix melted chocolate with Rice Krispies, pour into mold and refrigerate. Yum!
Milk Way Bars
These candy bars can be made using molds, or a parchment lined pan. In a mold, layer chocolate, caramel, and chocolate marshmallow. Top it off with more chocolate and refrigerate. If using a lined pan, layer caramel and chocolate marshmallow. Refrigerate, cut into bars, and dip in melted chocolate.
Three Musketeers Bars
Pour melted chocolate into a mold to coat bottom and sides. Mix chocolate marshmallow filling, press it into a mold and then top it off with a layer of chocolate. Refrigerate, release from mold and dip in melted chocolate. These can also be made in an 8×8 pan lined with parchment paper.
Butterfinger
Believe it or not, most recipes for homemade Butterfingers are made by melting candy corn and mixing it with peanut butter, which is pressed into a mold, and refrigerated. Dip in melted chocolate.
Twix Bars
For Twix bars, follow a shortbread cookie recipe and bake in a square pan. Allow it to cool and then cut into individual bars. Spread caramel over the top of each cookie and dip in melted chocolate.
Kit Kat Bars
Are Kit Kat bars your favorite? Dip crème filled vanilla sugar wafer cookies in melted chocolate. It’s easy and delicious!
Hard Candy & Lollipops:
Hard Candies
For homemade hard candies, most people use a cookie sheet instead of a mold. Change the flavor or color as desired. Flavors include various fruits, mints, and caramel.
Rock Candy
Rock Candy requires sugar, a jar, sticks, and lots of patience – it takes 1 to 2 weeks for crystals to form.
Swirled Lollipops
To make swirled lollipops, the warm candy mixture is worked by pulling and folding, creating ropes, which are twined together, and wrapped into spirals. Add sticks & enjoy.
Gummies:
Gummy Bears
Gummy bears appeal to kids and adults. They can be easily made at home with a gummy candy mold, and you can use fruit juice instead of sugar.
Presentation is Everything:
Chocolate Tulips
Just like bunches of fresh cut tulips, these multicolor chocolate blooms are haphazardly stacked in an eye-catching display to tempt your willpower.
Chocolate Tools
Creative chocolate molds, such as the ones used to make these tools, have strikingly realistic details, and the rectangular display resembles a toolbox. The chocolatiers have done an incredible job making these life-size “metal” tools, but I think the realism has been taken a bit too far. Although I know they have been dusted with cocoa powder for a well-worn appearance, rusty items do not appeal to my sweet tooth.
Chocolate Cell Phone
Want to know a stress reduction secret? Less technology and More chocolate! Remember, “stressed” spelled backwards is desserts! Enjoy!
Thanks for Reading & Happy Crafting!
As Valentine’s Day approaches, it’s a nice reminder to show appreciation for those who share our lives, including family, friends, and yes even our pets. It doesn’t have to cost a lot. In fact, you may already have what you need for the perfect gift. Here are a few creative ideas to get you started:
Sweets for the Sweet
Homemade cookies and candy will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Nature Lover
This edible art is delicious & nutritious.
Heart of the Vineyard
Connoisseurs will appreciate shared memories celebrated with a nice glass of wine.
The Personal Touch
Gifts made by hand are always the best way to show your love.
Two Hearts Beat as One
Whether you prefer working with wood or metal, this universal symbol of love says it all.
Love is in the Details
Glass, tile, and stones can be used to create mosaic jewelry, tabletops, wall art, etc.
A Rose by Any Other Name
As timeless symbols of love, these paper roses will forever be in bloom.
Big Bear Hugs
Everyone could use a hug. Teddy bears can be sewn, crocheted, or knitted. If you don’t have those skills, buy one and add a personal touch, such as a bunch of silk flowers or homemade chocolates.
Soft & Dreamy
Watercolor, acrylic or oil paints are the perfect choice for creating beautiful artwork to be treasured for years to come.
Heartfelt Adventure
Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy taking a romantic walk along a beach or trail on a “treasure” hunt, consisting of well-placed hearts made from stones, shells, or flowers.
Presentation is Everything
At the end of the treasure hunt mentioned above, surprise your companion with a little gift, such as a bouquet of wildflowers or handmade jewelry.
Reflective Photography
At first glance, you might only notice the beauty of this black swan but look closer and you will see the perfect heart shape created by his reflection.
Just the Two of Us
A sunset photo of a couple is a nice keepsake and posing just right forms a heart.
Your BFF
Our best friends are always looking for affection. A new scarf or a heart charm for the collar are nice options, but the best way to show your love is by giving them your time and attention. Works for people too!
Thanks for reading.
Happy Valentine’s Day & Happy Crafting!
Today marks a very important milestone – my 100th post! It has been a wonderful experience, and I thank all my readers and followers for taking this journey with me. Below are photos and links to each category of arts and crafts covered to date. Please take a few minutes to peruse your favorites.
Painting – Decorative Techniques
Please let me know, in the comments section, if you have any suggestions for future arts and crafts topics. I am looking forward to the next 100 posts. This achievement would not be possible without all of you! Thank you!!
Thanks for reading & Happy Crafting!
Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to show your appreciation for the people you love.
Celebrate with a Lady Finger Torte, Layer Cake, Cherry Cheesecake, Cupcakes, or Cake pops. Anything homemade is always appreciated. And if baking is not your specialty, buy one at the bakery, put it on your own serving dish and it will be our little secret! (lol)
Candy making is an easy process for everyone, even beginners. Start by melting chocolate wafers, called candy melts, which come in a variety of colors and flavors. Pour the chocolate into molds and refrigerate according to directions. You might also consider chocolate covering strawberries, nuts, graham crackers, or marshmallows. Present the finished pieces in a heart-shaped box or container.
Decorated cookies are eye-catching as well as delicious. Whether you choose homemade cookies or plain store-bought, add icing details, candy, or sprinkles to complete your festive designs.
Fresh-cut or silk flowers can be arranged in a bouquet, vase, or heart-shaped wreath. You don’t have to go to the expense of buying roses because any type of flowers will be appreciated.
Live flowers in a hanging basket or pot are not only beautiful, but long lasting as well. The flowers shown have not been photo shopped. They really are heart shaped, hence the name “bleeding hearts.”
A glass paperweight, suncatcher, or pendant is a beautiful option.
You could also paint a wooden heart to be hung on a wall, included on a wreath, or as a charm on a gift package or handbag.
Beaded jewelry is easy to create. If you don’t have those skills, you can buy a readymade chain or cord and string over-size beads without the need for any tools.
You could also buy a heart-shaped pendant and add it to an existing chain or choose a new one.
If you have a gift with words, write a song or poem on specialty paper to suit the occasion.
Artwork, such as painting, drawing, and photography, is a personal way to share your talent and show your affection at the same time.
A scrapbook is a thoughtful way to commemorate family memories and special events.
Create a vision board or photo album with inspirational travel brochures, activities and scenic pictures to build excitement for an upcoming vacation.
Candle making is simplified using a kit. There are multiple options including colors, shapes, sizes, and essential oils scents.
You can’t go wrong with dinner for two. This is the perfect venue for candles, printed napkins on a pink or red tablecloth, and creative place settings to set the mood for a romantic evening.
Sewing a pillow is a quick colorful project to coordinate with any décor.
A knitted scarf, hat, gloves, or sweater will keep that special someone warm and cozy on a cold winter day, and it will be enjoyed for years to come.
Who doesn’t love cuddly stuffed animals, especially teddy bears? If you are skilled with a needle and thread, you could make a bear with faux fur or buy one. There’s nothing like a big bear hug to brighten your day and chase away the blues.
It is said, “The best things in life are free.” Go to the beach, the mountains, a nearby park, or your own backyard. Any place will do to spend time together watching the sunset, enjoying a picnic or barbecue, or simply going for a walk hand in hand. Expressions of love don’t need to cost a lot, just a little creativity and a heartfelt message.
Happy Valentine’s Day and Happy Crafting!
There’s a reason they say: “Life is short. Eat dessert first.” It really is the best part of the meal. Now that spring has arrived, there will be plenty of entertaining opportunities. Why not offer to bring dessert? Many people don’t realize that craft stores have large baking departments with specialty pans, cake decorating tools, glassware, cake plates, fondant and many other useful tricks of the trade to make your desserts the hit of the party.
Apple Pie – Hot apple pie a la mode is a favorite any time of year. Layering the apple slices across the top in a creative spiral design adds to the visual appeal.
Chocolate Birds Nests – Kids and adults love the taste of Rice Krispie Treats but these have a wonderful springtime chocolate twist. Simply follow the recipe using chocolate rice cereal. Drop spoonfuls into cupcake wrappers and shape into nests. For the finishing touch, place a few malted milk eggs or jellybeans on top as eggs.
Brownies with Heart – Everyone has a recipe for brownies. To make them extra special, bake them in a specialty pan with individual compartments. Cut out a paper heart and set in on top, and then sprinkle with powdered sugar. It’s so much more impressive than the usual square cut brownie.
Caramel Flan – This delicious egg custard has a caramel glaze poured over the top.
Raspberry Cheesecake – Any flavor of cheesecake is a delicious choice year round.
Chocolate Fudge Cake – This chocolate lover’s dream has a thick layer of chocolate fudge icing, chocolate filling and a chocolate graham cracker crust. Yummy!
Red Velvet Roll – Moist rich chocolate cake filled with vanilla cream and topped with chocolate shavings, coffee beans and a dusting of chocolate powder – Who could resist?
Chocolate Truffles – To make these decadent truffles, you will need to fill the candy mold one layer at a time. Form the outer shell by coating the mold with chocolate. Next add the filling. Popular favorites are hazelnuts, butter cream, peanut butter, caramels, chocolate liqueurs and cream fillings. A piping bag can be used to make filling easier. Refrigerate the mold to allow the filling and chocolate to solidify. The last step is adding another layer of chocolate to fill any remaining voids and seal the top of the mold. Refrigerate and carefully un-mold. If you want a more colorful treat, dip each truffle in melted chocolate and then dip in candy sprinkles. Your candy making skills will be the envy of all your guests.
Assorted Cookies – Dress up your next batch of cookies by using fanciful cookie cutters, and embellishing with icing, sprinkles, nuts or dipping chocolate.
Cupcakes – These are easy to make party favorites and kids love to help with decorating.
Fruit Tart – This is a beautiful, eye-catching dessert. It’s all about the pattern and colors. The brightly colored plate creates the perfect frame for this artistic piece.
Yogurt Parfaits – What could be easier than mixing yogurt and fresh fruit?
Muffins – Decorative paper wraps add pizzazz to simple muffins and cupcakes. Use a piping bag to apply whipped cream icing and top with a few berries and a sprig of mint.
Raspberry Vanilla Pudding – While this may appear fancy, it’s easy to make. You’ll need an empty egg carton to hold the glass dishes at an angle. Mix the pudding, pour it into the tilted dishes and refrigerate. Puree raspberries and pour onto the firm pudding. A little whipped cream, a few chocolate pieces, a fresh raspberry and a mint leaf complete this visually intriguing dessert.
Cream Puffs – Two dessert favorites in one: cream puffs and strawberry shortcake.
So many delicious choices! What’s your favorite? The only challenge in making dessert is preventing your family from devouring it before the guests arrive. Oh well, you can always make extra just in case.
Happy Crafting!
I have a confession to make – researching this article made my mouth water, and I realized it should probably contain a warning, so here it is: If you don’t have a craving for chocolate right now, you will by the time you finish reading this post. You might want to have some chocolate on hand before you continue reading. Grab some Hershey’s kisses, or break open a bag of chocolate chips – anything will do – just in case!
Assorted Chocolates
Chocolate is a worldwide obsession. Everybody has a favorite. The purists prefer their chocolate free of any added ingredients. Some crave nuts, caramel, or coconut with chocolate, but others passionately insist peanut butter and chocolate make the ultimate combo. While the debate continues, candy makers tantalize the chocolate-loving public with their latest creations. It all starts with a seed…
Seeds Growing upon Cacao Trees
Turning cacao seeds into the delicious chocolate treats, we have come to adore, is time consuming. For the DIY candy makers, manufacturers have simplified the process by creating small chocolate wafers called candy melts, which are available in milk chocolate, dark chocolate, white chocolate, and assorted flavors, such as peppermint and strawberry.
Milk Chocolate Candy Melts
Melted Milk Chocolate
Chocolate is melted in a double boiler. When it reaches a smooth, creamy consistency, it can be poured into molds similar to the one shown below.
Milk Chocolate Hearts
After refrigeration, the chocolates are unmolded and ready to eat. The solid milk chocolate hearts in the above photo are the easiest, beginner-level of chocolate candy making.
Assorted Gourmet Chocolates
With practice and a little creativity, you can graduate to the next level.
Chocolate Truffles
Do you have a gourmet sweet tooth? Chocolatiers, such as Lindt, and Godiva, are excellent choices, but can be expensive. Making these decadent truffles takes a little more effort, but it’s still an easy process. Instead of filling the mold all at once, it is done in layers. The first layer forms the outer chocolate shell. Coat the mold with chocolate. Next the filling is added. Popular favorites are hazelnuts, butter cream, peanut butter, caramels, chocolate liqueurs and cream fillings. A piping bag can be used to make filling easier. Refrigerate the mold to allow the filling and chocolate to solidify. The last step is adding another layer of chocolate to fill any remaining voids and seal the top of the mold. Refrigerate and carefully un-mold. Your candy making skills will be the envy of all your friends and family.
If gourmet chocolate isn’t your style, there are simpler options…
Chocolate & Vanilla Fudge
Assorted Chocolate Barks
Crispy Chocolate Caramel Bar
Have you ever eaten a 100Grand candy bar? It’s a delicious combination of crispy chocolate with a gooey caramel center. Making your own is simple: Melt milk chocolate wafers and stir in Rice Krispies. Spread half the mixture in an 8×8 pan. Pour caramel sauce over the top, and then cover with the remaining chocolate mixture. Refrigerate to harden the chocolate and cut into bars. Don’t be surprised if the pan magically empties.
Chocolate Covered Cookie
Chocolate Covered Marshmallows
Chocolate Covered Cake Pops
Undecided whether to have chocolate or cake? Have both with chocolate cake pops.
Chocolate Covered Apples
If soft, gooey, caramel and decadent chocolate were people, they would be best friends. For gourmet apples, dip fruit in caramel first, followed by chocolate, and roll in sprinkles, crushed nuts, or anything else your taste buds desire.
Chocolate Caramel Popcorn
What more do you need on movie night?
Hot Chocolate & Red Velvet Cake
Perhaps beverages are more to your liking? There’s no need to wait for cold weather. Crank up the air conditioner, we’re having hot chocolate!
Chocolate Fudge Pie
Chocolate Mousse
Who could resist the rich, creamy taste of chocolate mousse?
Brownie a la Mode
Solid Chocolate Cell Phone
No phone plan is needed here. Hold all my calls! This is going to take a while.
Happy Crafting!!
Crafts Inspire Me 