A chocolate fountain is the thing that chocolate lover’s dreams are made of. They splash warm, melted, delicious chocolate into a pool of even more chocolate. Talk about heaven! And, as if that fountain of chocolate wasn’t enough to make your mouth water, add to it the fact that you can take your favorite items and drench them in the flowing, warm chocolate and a chocolate fountain is enough to make you swoon.
Chocolate fountains aren’t only the dream of chocoholics everywhere; they are also an excellent addition to any affair where food is served. Imagine how much you will wow your guests when have a cascading fountain of chocolate set out on a dessert table, surrounded by fresh strawberries, cherries, oranges, bananas, and even marshmallows, graham crackers and even an array of candies. Your guests will swoon when they discover that you are serving them such a delectable, mouth watering treat. With a chocolate fountain, you can transform any special occasion, such as a wedding, a work event, a holiday gather, a birthday party or a baby or bridal shower, into an even more festive and exciting event.
Of course, if you really love chocolate, you don’t have to reserve using a chocolate fountain for special occasions only. Imagine having your own chocolate fountain and indulging in the sweetness that it delivers any time you want… Set up the chocolate fountain after a weekday dinner and you and your family will have loads of fun – and satisfaction – enjoying all of the fun tastiness that it will deliver.
If you have recently been to an event where a chocolate fountain was offered, you may be thinking about purchasing one for yourself. While having your own fountain is sure to be amazing, finding the best one to suit your specific needs can be a little challenging. There are so many different options out there, and they are offered by so many different manufacturers, which can make choosing the best chocolate fountain for your specific needs a bit difficult.
To help you on your quest for finding a chocolate fountain that you will truly enjoy and that will best suit your needs, we have put together this handy buyer’s guide. In this guide, we have highlighted everything you need to know about buying a chocolate fountain. We discuss the qualities that make for a good chocolate fountain, as well as qualities that you should avoid. We have also listed some of the most important factors that you should take into consideration when you are shopping for a chocolate fountain, the different types of fountains and the features that they offer. Additionally, we have shared what we think are the best chocolate fountains that are available on the market today.
If you are really interested in buying a chocolate fountain, than you are going to want to keep on reading so that you can be as informed as possible and choose the best fountain for your needs.
So, without further ado, here’s your guide to buying the best chocolate fountain.
What You Need to Know About Chocolate Fountains
In order to purchase the best chocolate fountain possible, it is important to separate the best chocolate fountains from those fountains that are of lesser quality. Understanding what separates the good from the bad will help you choose the best chocolate fountain possible. With that said, we want to share with you what qualities you should look for when you are shopping for a chocolate fountain and what you should avoid.
THE GOOD
There are certain qualities that distinguish a high quality chocolate fountain from a sub-par fountain. Here is a look at the elements that the best chocolate fountains will feature.
It Operates Quietly
All chocolate fountains have at least one moving part; either an auger or a pump. This part siphons the liquid chocolate up to the top of the fountain, which allows it to pour back down into the pool, or container below. Because the auger or the pump has moving mechanisms within them, they create a certain degree of noise. The best chocolate fountains offer a quiet operation. A whisper model will offer the quietest operation, as it will offer the quietest operation and won’t distract you or your guests. Additionally, a chocolate fountain that doesn’t make a lot of noise is typically a sign that indicates the unit is of the highest quality.
It Offers a Leveling Mechanism
While it is always a wise idea to use a chocolate fountain on a level surface, sometimes, this may not be possible. Say, for example, you are using it outside, or the table or platform that you are placing it on is slightly askew. In these situations, a leveling mechanism is an excellent feature to have. This mechanism will allow you to adjust the base as needed and will ensure that the fountain will operate as efficiently as possible, even on a surface that isn’t level.
It’s Made of High Quality Materials
The best chocolate fountains are constructed of high quality materials. Stainless steel is perhaps the best material, as it is extremely durable and can withstand the heat not only the heating element, but also the hot chocolate that continuously flows down the fountain. The only downside to stainless steel is that it is not dishwasher safe, so that may make cleaning the unit a little more cumbersome.
High grade plastics are also considered a good option, as they are dishwasher safe, which makes for easier cleaning. However, high grade plastic is not as durable as stainless steel, so it will not be able to withstand the constant exposure to heat as well as stainless steel, which means that it won’t last as long.
It Has a Large Basin
At the base of a chocolate fountain is a basin. This basin holds the melted chocolate that pours down the fountain and moves back up it. The best chocolate fountains have large basins that can hold an adequate amount of melted chocolate. If the basin is not large enough, it won’t be able to hold enough chocolate to satisfy your guests and you will have to constantly refill the unit; not exactly something you want to do if you want to be able to enjoy your event. Additionally, if the basin isn’t large enough, the melted chocolate could end up splashing over the sides, making your elegant centerpiece turn into a mess.
It Has a Deep Basin
In addition to being large, the basin of a chocolate fountain should also be deep. The deeper it is, the less of a chance of spillage, which is important if you want to avoid a big mess.
THE BAD
Now that you know what elements make for a high quality chocolate fountain, let’s take a look at some of the elements that indicate a chocolate fountain is of sub-par quality and won’t provide you with the results that you are hoping for.
It’s Loud
Lower quality chocolate fountains operate loudly. As mentioned above, chocolate fountains feature a mechanism that pushes the melted chocolate up through a central tube so that it can flow back down the fountain. Because this mechanism contains a motor, it can be noisy. Low quality chocolate fountains operate loudly, which is something you want to avoid, as the noise may be disturbing.
Additionally, a loud operation is a pretty good indication that the fountain isn’t exactly the highest quality.
It Doesn’t Have a Leveling Mechanism
In order for a chocolate fountain to work properly, it must be level. While you can certainly do your best to ensure that you are using your fountain on a perfectly level surface, sometimes, that isn’t always possible. Without a leveling mechanism, if you use your fountain on a surface that isn’t level, the device won’t operate properly. This will not only impact how efficiently the melted chocolate will move up the central tube and flow back down the tiers, but it can also cause chocolate to splash out of the basin, which can lead to a huge mess.
It’s Constructed of Poor Materials
As we discussed above, the best chocolate fountains are constructed of either stainless steel or high grade plastic. If the material that the fountain is constructed of is lower quality metal or low grade plastic, it certainly isn’t going to last you a long time. Low grade plastics will melt quickly under the heat that it is exposed to. Likewise, low quality metal will become damaged under the heat; they could warp or tarnish, for example.
It Has a Small Basin
Avoiding purchasing a chocolate fountain that has a small basin. If the basin is small, it won’t hold enough chocolate to satisfy your guests and will have to constantly be refilled. Additionally, if the basin is small, it could end up making a big mess.
It Has a Shallow Basin
You should also avoid purchasing a chocolate fountain that has a shallow basin. If the basin is shallow, the melted chocolate will end up splashing out of it, which will make for a big mess; not to mention the fact that it will detract from the look of your fountain.
The Best Chocolate Fountains in 2023
|
|
|
|
|
We have done extensive research to find you the best chocolate fountains on the market. We have scoured the market and compared the various chocolate fountains that are offered from different manufacturers. We have also compared the reviews that users have provided and we have tested the products out ourselves. Our assessment lead us to determine that the following chocolate fountains are the best of the best.
Sephra 17302 The Select 16 Inch Stainless Steel Home Fondue Fountain
If you are really looking for a high quality chocolate fountain, you won’t be disappointed by the Sephra 1730 The Select 16 Inch Stainless Steel Home Fondue Fountain. Offering a whisper quiet motor, you won’t have to worry about loud whirring noises disturbing your guests.
The basing of this fountain is large and deep, so you can be sure that you will have plenty of chocolate available for your guests, and you won’t have to worry about the possibility of a big mess being created. The basin is also constructed of stainless steel, so you can be confident that it will be able to withstand the heat and will last you a long time. A Quick Set tier system makes for fast and easy set up, and some of the components are dishwasher safe, which allows for quick and easy clean up.
The brushed stainless steel exterior, coupled, with three tiers will make a beautiful presentation on your dessert table. Included with this chocolate fountain are 10 plastic fondue skewers, which can be washed and reused over and over again.
Wilton Chocolate Pro Three Tier Chocolate Fountain, 2104-9008
You know you can’t go wrong with a chocolate fountain that is made by Wilton, the dessert experts. The Wilton Chocolate Pro 3-Tier Chocolate Fountain, 2104-9008 is one of the best on the market. Holding up to four pounds of melted chocolate, you will have peace of mind knowing that you won’t run out of chocolate and that you won’t have to constantly monitor and refill the element.
Offering three tiers, which flow into a large basin with a polished brown exterior, this chocolate fountain will truly be a centerpiece on your dessert table. Thanks to the adjustable feet and the bubble level, this fountain will stay nice and steady, allowing the auger feed chocolate system to run as smoothly as possible (and reducing the chances of having chocolate spill everywhere.)
Set the fountain to warm to preheat the base unit so that the chocolate will remain melted. Turn it to flow so that the melted chocolate will cascade down the mountain with ease. Perhaps what you will like most of all about this chocolate fountain is that the pieces can easily be put together and taken apart, making for a quick set up and a quick clean up.
Clear Max CF – 892 Electric Three Tier Stainless Steel Chocolate Fountain in Silver
If you are looking for a chocolate fountain that is both high quality and affordable, look no further than the Clear Max CF – 892 Electric Three Tier Stainless Steel Chocolate Fountain in Silver. Offering three tall tiers and a beautiful stainless steel base and tower, this chocolate fountain is sure to make an impressive statement on your dessert table.
The auger style fountain draws the melted chocolate from the basin up to the top of the tower with ease. The quiet operation will ensure your guests won’t be interrupted by the fountain; they only thing that will call their attention is the beautiful display of cascading melted chocolate.
The tower is easy to assemble and take apart, and cleaning is simple. Thanks to the dial control, which offers a warm, flowing and off function, you won’t have any problem operating this chocolate fountain. The red indicator light will let you know that the fountain is turned on and operational.
The beauty of this fountain, coupled with the fact that it can hold up to 2 ½ pounds of melted chocolate will make it an absolutely amazing feature for your next event – or will turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one.
Nostalgia CFF986 Four Tier Stainless Steel Chocolate Fondue Fountain
You will add a definite touch of mouthwatering beauty to any dessert table with the Nostalgia CFF986 Four Tier Stainless Steel Chocolate Fondue Fountain. With the capacity to hold up to two pounds of melted chocolate and four tall tiers, your guests won’t be able to miss this fountain. The stainless steel basin only adds to the beauty of this fountain’s display.
To use this chocolate fondue fountain, all you have to do is fill the basin with your favorite melted chocolate, turn the motor on, stand back and watch the chocolate work its way up the fountain and pour down the cascading tiers.
The Nostalgia CFF986 Four Tier Stainless Steel Chocolate Fondue Fountain is easy to assemble and take apart, and cleaning it is easy, too. Your guests will certainly be impressed by the incredible display – and tasty treats – that this chocolate fountain delivers.
Sephra CL 18 Liter Classic Home Chocolate Fountain in Stainless Steel
Though is offers a simplified design, the Sephra Classic Home Chocolate Fountain in Stainless Steel offers anything but a simple look. Add this fountain to your dessert table and you will be sure to make a bold and beautiful statement. The stainless steel basin, coupled with the melted chocolate that flows over three tiers will be sure to catch the eye of all of your guests.
With a six pound capacity, you won’t have to worry about constantly monitoring this fountain to make sure that the chocolate is flowing, which will allow you to spend more time mixing and mingling with your guests.
Thanks to the Whisper Quiet motor, you and your guests won’t be bothered by any obnoxious sounds; you will just be able to indulge in the sweetness that this fountain offers. You also won’t have to worry about melting the chocolate beforehand; just add it to the basin, turn it on and the Sephra Classic Home Fountain in Stainless Steel will do all of the work for you.
If you’re interested in serving something other than chocolate, you can! This fountain can easily accommodate a variety of fondues, including cheese, caramel, and even your favorite dressings! Talk about a versatile serving piece!
Our Consumer Guide to Chocolate Fountains
While we have recommended some of the best chocolate fountains that are currently available on the market, we do understand that they may not meet your specific needs and that you may be considering purchasing a different option. Because we want you to choose the best chocolate fountain possible, we would like to offer you some valuable information that will help you make the best selection. For that reason, we have put together this consumer’s guide. In this portion of our buyer’s guide, you will find some valuable information that will help you find and purchase the best possible chocolate fountain.
Types of Chocolate Fountains
Chocolate fountains can be categorized according to the materials that they are made of. With that said, there are two main types of chocolate fountains:
- The Metal Chocolate Fountain – Metal is one of the most popular materials used for chocolate fountains. If you want to ensure that you are purchasing the best option, pick stainless steel above any other metal. Stainless steel is the most durable metal and can withstand the constant exposure to heat. It will also make a bold impact, thanks to the contrast of the rich brown chocolate.
- The Plastic Chocolate Fountain – Chocolate fountains can also be constructed of plastic. If you go this route, make sure to pick one that is made of high grade plastic. Since plastic is more susceptible to being damaged by the hot chocolate, you want to make sure that you opt for the highest quality plastic to avoid potential melting and to prolong the life of your fountain.
Things to Consider When Purchasing a Chocolate Fountain
There are a number of factors that you are going to want to take into consideration when you are shopping for a chocolate fountain. Some of these factors include the capacity of the fountain, the ease of use and the cost, among other things. By taking these factors into consideration, you will be able to choose the best chocolate fountain for your needs
The Capacity of the Chocolate Fountain
One of the most important factors that you are going to want to take into consideration when you are shopping for a chocolate fountain is the capacity of the device. You want to ensure that the fountain will hold enough chocolate to satisfy your guests, and you also want to make sure that you don’t have to constantly babysit the fountain and worry about adding more chocolate. Capacities do vary, with some offering a capacity to hold 2 pounds of chocolate, and some offering the ability to hold upwards of 5 pounds of melted chocolate. Consider the size of the crowd that you will be using this device to serve to determine what size will work the best for you.
Ease of Use
You definitely want your chocolate fountain to be as easy to use as possible. The best fountains are easy to assemble and take apart; they don’t require any complicated steps or additional tools. They are also easy to clean and allow the chocolate to flow through the central tube and down the tiers easily.
The Cost
Just like you would with any other product you would purchase, you want to take the cost of the chocolate fountain into consideration. Prices do vary, with the lower end of the scale being around $20 and the higher end of the scale being around $80 or more. Generally, the larger the fountain and the more features it offers, the more expensive it is going to be. Make sure you determine how much you want to spend before you start shopping so you can avoid over extending your budget.
Features Chocolate Fountains Offer
There are a few features that chocolate fountains can offer. These features are intended to make the fountain easier to use and more versatile. As was mentioned above, the more features that a fountain offers, the more expensive it is going to be. It is important to have an understanding of these features so you can determine whether you want or need them, and if the additional cost will be worth your while.
Here is a look at some of the top features that chocolate fountains can offer.
Variable Temperature Settings
Some chocolate fountains just plug in and start working, offering on temperature variation; however, there are fountains that do offer variable temperature settings. With this features, you will be able to ensure that the chocolate is heated to the ideal temperature so that you can make the most impressive display, and offer your guests the tastiest treats.
Indicator Lights
Some chocolate fountains also feature indicator lights. These lights let you know that the fountain is turned on, and when it is ready to be used. This feature will make your fountain easier – and safer – to use.
A Warranty
To protect your investment, you may want to consider purchasing a chocolate fountain that offers a warranty. With a warranty, should anything happen to the fountain, or should there be any defects from the manufacturer, you will be able to have the device repaired or replaced, or you may even be able to have your money reimbursed.
