Chocolate Fondue with Marshmallows

Name: Chocolate Fondue with Marshmallows
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; Pinch of sea salt; Marshmallows for dipping; Fresh fruits (strawberries, bananas, apple slices); Cookies or pretzels

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely adore making Chocolate Fondue with Marshmallows for gatherings or cozy nights in. It's a delightful way to enjoy rich, melted chocolate paired with fluffy marshmallows. The combination of flavors and textures creates a truly indulgent experience! Plus, it's surprisingly easy to prepare—perfect for when you want to impress friends or treat yourself. Gather your favorite dippers, and let’s dive into this sweet adventure that’s bound to bring smiles all around.

Created by

Maribel Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-10T02:04:13.342Z

When I first tried making chocolate fondue, I was surprised by how easy and rewarding it was. Using high-quality chocolate really enhances the flavor—I've found that dark chocolate pairs perfectly with the sweetness of marshmallows. The key is in controlling the heat; a gentle warming keeps the chocolate luscious and prevents it from seizing up.

One evening, I experimented with different flavors by adding a splash of vanilla and a pinch of sea salt to the melted chocolate. It made a significant difference in taste! I always serve it with a variety of fruits and cookies for dipping, which balances the sweet chocolate beautifully.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent chocolate that melts beautifully
Heavenly marshmallows for a delightful textural contrast
Interactive and fun way to enjoy dessert with friends and family

      

Perfecting Your Chocolate Fondue

When making chocolate fondue, the type of chocolate you choose is crucial for achieving that luxurious, smooth texture. I recommend using high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content. This ensures a deep, rich flavor that stands up well against the sweetness of the marshmallows and fruits. Be mindful not to overheat the chocolate; keep your stove on low to avoid scorching. Stirring continuously also helps to prevent the mixture from burning and ensures a velvety consistency.

Incorporating cream into the chocolate not only provides a silky texture but also balances its intensity. The ratio I use is 1 cup of heavy cream for every 8 ounces of chocolate. This balance allows the fondue to maintain a thick yet flowing quality, perfect for dipping. If you happen to prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk, but be prepared for a slightly less indulgent outcome.

Dippers and Pairings

While marshmallows are a classic choice, exploring other dipping options can elevate your fondue experience. Fresh fruits like strawberries, bananas, and apple slices offer a refreshing contrast to the rich chocolate. I recommend slicing the apples just before serving to prevent browning, ensuring they remain visually appealing. Additionally, cookies—like buttery shortbread or crunchy biscotti—add a delightful texture that complements the softness of the marshmallows.

For a savory twist, consider including pretzels. Their salty crunch contrasts beautifully with the sweet chocolate and marshmallows, making each bite an adventure for your taste buds. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even experiment with other dippers, such as potato chips or popcorn, for a unique sweet-and-salty pairing that may surprise your guests!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your fondue:

Ingredients

8 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
1 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of sea salt
Marshmallows for dipping
Fresh fruits (strawberries, bananas, apple slices)
Cookies or pretzels

Make sure to have the fruits and cookies prepped for dipping.

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious chocolate fondue:

Melt the chocolate

In a medium saucepan, combine the dark chocolate and heavy cream over low heat. Stir continuously until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth.

Add flavorings

Once melted, stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt to enhance the chocolate flavor.

Transfer to serving bowl

Carefully pour the chocolate mixture into a fondue pot or a heat-safe serving bowl.

Serve with dippers

Arrange the marshmallows, fresh fruit, and cookies around the fondue pot for dipping.

Enjoy this delightful dessert with friends or family!

Pro Tips

For a unique twist, try experimenting with flavored chocolates or festive toppings like crushed nuts and sprinkles.

Storing Leftover Fondue

If you happen to have any leftover chocolate fondue, storing it is quite simple. Allow the fondue to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week. When you're ready to enjoy it again, gently reheat the fondue in a microwave-safe bowl in short bursts of 20 seconds, stirring in between, or over a double boiler until it reaches that perfect melty consistency once more.

Be cautious, though—reheating too quickly can cause the chocolate to seize. If this happens, adding a splash of milk or cream can help restore its smooth texture. Just mix it in while gently heating, and you should be back to that irresistible fondue experience!

Customization and Variations

One of the best aspects of chocolate fondue is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit various dietary needs or flavor preferences. For a dairy-free option, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based alternative. You can also experiment with flavored chocolates, such as orange-infused dark chocolate or mint chocolate, to introduce exciting new dimensions to your dessert.

Alternatively, for a fun twist, try adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne pepper to the melted chocolate for a touch of warmth. Just start with a pinch, taste, and adjust according to your preference. This will create an intriguing flavor profile that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of marshmallows and fruits.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use milk chocolate instead of dark?

Yes, but keep in mind that milk chocolate will make the fondue sweeter and may not be as rich in flavor.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover chocolate fondue in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ What can I use as dippers?

You can use a variety of items like fruits, pretzels, cookies, and even cubes of pound cake for dipping.

→ Is it necessary to add cream?

Adding cream gives the fondue a smooth and creamy texture, making it easier to dip. However, you can omit it for a thicker consistency.