Chocolate For Dipping

Directions

1. 1
   Line baking sheet with waxed paper; set aside.
2. 2
   Remove candy to be dipped from refrigerator about 10 minutes before dipping.
3. 3
   Dipping cold centers can result in cracked coating or bloom (white crystals) on coating.
4. 4
   Place chocolate chips and shortening into 2-cup glass measuring cup.
5. 5
   Place measuring cup into bowl which contains very warm (100F to 110F) water reaching halfway up measuring cup.
6. 6
   (Don't let even one drop of water mix with chocolate.)
7. 7
   Stir mixture constantly with rubber spatula 18-22 minutes or until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth.
8. 8
   (Do not rush melting process.)
9. 9
   Replace water with more very warm water, if necessary.
10. 10
    Remove measuring cup from bowl; continue stirring 2-3 minutes or until chocolate is cooled slightly.
11. 11
    Set one candy center onto tines of fondue fork or 2 pronged fork.
12. 12
    Completely dip center into melted chocolate.
13. 13
    Gently tap fork against side of measuring cup to remove excess melted chocolate.
14. 14
    Invert candy onto prepared baking sheet.
15. 15
    Repeat with remaining centers.
16. 16
    Place measuring cup into bowl of very warm water, if melted chocolate becomes too thick for dipping; stir until desired consistency.
17. 17
    Use shortening instead of butter, margarine or oil.
18. 18
    Do not dip chocolate on humid days.
19. 19
    Chocolate can also be melted over low heat, in a double boiler or on Medium (50% power) in microwave.
20. 20
    If chocolate is melted at too high a temperature it will become crumbly and grainy.
21. 21
    This can be corrected as directed above.
22. 22
    Store chocolate tightly wrapped, in a cool dry place.
23. 23
    Do not refrigerate.