The Hands-Down Best Chocolate For Drizzling

Drizzling chocolate on your dish is one of those little upgrades that can turn a simple dessert into something showstopping. Whether you're elevating fresh strawberries or other fruits that pair perfectly with chocolate, adding flair to a cheesecake, or giving ice cream that perfect finishing touch, the key to a perfect drizzle lies in the chocolate you use.

Whether you use white, milk, or dark chocolate, there are things to look for when choosing a drizzling confection. If you want a silky, glossy finish that sets beautifully and tastes indulgent, quality matters most. Look for chocolate with a high fat content and plenty of cocoa butter. Premium brands like Callebaut and Valrhona are beloved by professionals for good reason: they melt down smoothly, helping melted chocolate reach the correct consistency and hold their shape when cooled.

Need to save on prep time? Look to pre-chopped baking chocolate or melting wafers. While chips may seem convenient, they're made to hold their shape, which means they contain stabilizers that actually work against a smooth melt. In an exclusive interview with Chowhound, professional baker Laura Kasavan recommends reaching for baking wafers — small discs that are specifically designed to melt, without additives.

So, you've secured the perfect chocolate, rich in fat and cocoa butter goodness. But what next? Well, it's simple. You can melt your chocolate in a double boiler on your stove or in the microwave. If you go for the second option, make sure to stir it at least every 30 seconds to make sure it doesn't burn. After you've achieved a velvety consistency, pour the mixture into a piping bag and let your creativity run wild in the world of melted chocolate decorations.

Warm, melted chocolate, of course, makes desserts even more decadent. But with a bowl of ice, you can make simple, unique decorations by piping the chocolate directly into the cold water to create unique shapes. The melty topping can even add a sweet edge to salted pretzels. Whether you make a sweet or savory dish, drizzling with the right chocolate makes all the difference.