With all of our hearts, we've always loved chocolate. It's a pleasure that makes people of all ages happy, whether they're eating warm chocolate chip cookies straight out of the oven or holiday boxes full of truffles. Many of us are familiar with the classic ways to enjoy it cakes, brownies, bars, or paired with a glass of wine. But chocolate is far more versatile than you might imagine.
People have been coming up with clever and unique ways to use this tasty food other than in desserts since ancient times. We are always amazed at how chocolate can be used in beauty products, do-it-yourself projects, and even ways to pair food. Check out these fun and strange things to do if you want to eat even more chocolate.
Chocolate for Smooth Skin
Most of us enjoy chocolate by eating it, but did you know it can also be used in skincare routines? Cocoa butter, which comes from the cocoa bean, is widely used in lotions and body butters. It is loved for its rich texture and the way it helps the skin feel soft and nourished. Some people even enjoy using DIY chocolate masks or scrubs for a spa-like treatment at home.
The claims made in this section are not meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition, even though chocolate-based cosmetics could leave your skin feeling smooth and smelling sweet.
So the next time you accidentally smear chocolate on your hands, you might think twice before rushing to wash it off it could inspire a relaxing skincare idea!
Chocolate Paired with Cheese
When you think about cheese pairings, wine usually comes to mind first. But here’s a little-known secret: chocolate and cheese can be an incredible match. It might sound unusual at first, yet the contrast between sweet and savory flavors often works beautifully.
For example, creamy cheeses like brie or mascarpone pair nicely with milk chocolate. Stronger varieties such as stilton or blue cheese can complement the bitterness of dark chocolate. Even a drizzle of melted Santa Barbara chocolate over a slice of mild cheddar can surprise your taste buds in the best way.
Next time you’re putting together a cheese board, consider slipping in a few pieces of chocolate. Your guests might raise an eyebrow at first, but chances are they’ll go back for seconds.
Chocolate-Scented Candles
If you’re someone who can’t get enough of the rich aroma of chocolate, why not bring that scent into your living space? Making chocolate-scented candles is a fun DIY project and a great way to fill your home with a cozy, sweet smell.
You can find candle-making kits at most craft stores, or simply gather wax, wicks, and chocolate-scented oils. While it may be tempting to use real chocolate, it’s better to rely on fragrance oils designed for candles they burn more evenly and give off a stronger scent.
Place your homemade chocolate candle on a table, light it during movie night, and enjoy how the fragrance instantly warms the room. It’s a creative way to enjoy chocolate without eating a single bite.
Chocolate in Drinks and Cocktails
Chocolate isn’t just for desserts it can bring a whole new flavor to drinks as well. Think about a comforting mug of hot cocoa on a cold winter night, and then take it further. You can infuse chocolate into cocktails, spirits, and even coffee to create rich, layered flavors that surprise the taste buds.
Why not make delicious chocolate vodka or dreamy chocolate liquor? To try it at home, let chocolate pieces or cocoa nibs steep in vodka for a few days, then strain and enjoy. The finished product is a silky, mildly sweet liquor that mixes well in mixed drinks. Another favorite is chocolate liqueur, which goes well with cream-based beverages and adds a rich touch when drizzled over ice cream.
If you prefer non-alcoholic options, chocolate still shines. Add shavings to milkshakes, blend into smoothies, or stir into homemade cold brews for a café-style drink right in your kitchen.
Other Fun Ways to Use Chocolate
- Beyond the aforementioned suggestions, chocolate can be used in a variety of oddball ways:
- Art using chocolate: On parchment paper, melted chocolate can be piped into words or designs. You will have edible cake and cupcake decorations after it cools.
- Chocolate fondue: For a fun group activity, set up a fondue pot, melt your favorite chocolate, and dip pretzels, marshmallows, or fruits.
- Desserts coated in chocolate: Go beyond strawberries For sweet-and-salty snacks, try dipping dried fruit, bacon, or potato chips.
- DIY gifts: Homemade chocolate bark with nuts, dried fruit, or sprinkles makes a thoughtful gift wrapped in simple paper or jars.
Why We Keep Coming Back to Chocolate?
What makes chocolate so fascinating is its ability to fit into so many areas of our lives. It’s comforting when we’re craving something sweet, exciting when we try new pairings, and even relaxing when we turn it into a scent or skincare product. Few ingredients have this kind of versatility, which is why chocolate remains a timeless favorite.
Consider these unusual applications the next time you indulge in your favorite chocolate bar. Chocolate will take on a whole new meaning for you, whether you're using it to make candles, melt it into drinks, or surprise your friends with a chocolate and cheese match.
