How to fill and remove chocolate from silicone molds

Introduction

Chocolate lovers, get ready to take your candy game to the next level with silicone molds! These versatile tools offer a wide range of benefits over traditional metal molds, making them a favorite among professional chocolatiers and home cooks alike. In this blog post, we’re going to cover some key techniques for properly filling and removing chocolate from silicone molds, so you can create beautiful, high-quality cand with ease.

Preparing the Molds

First things first, let’s talk about preparing the molds. The key to a successful candy project is starting with clean, conditioned molds. That means washing the molds with warm, soapy water and then drying them thoroughly before use. This will help ensure that the chocolate releases easily from the molds and doesn’t leave any residue behind.

Preparing the Chocolate

Next, you’ll need to prepare the chocolate itself. This typically involves tempering the chocolate (if you’re using couverture), which helps to give it a glossy finish and an attractive snap when it’s broken. You can also melt chocolate using a double boiler or a microwave, but it’s important to do so slowly and carefully, to avoid scorching the chocolate. Once your chocolate is ready, it’s time to choose the right consistency for filling the molds. A good rule of thumb is to use chocolate that is fluid but not too runny – think thick cream consistency.

Fill and Remove Chocolate From Silicone Molds

Now, it’s time to fill those molds! One key technique for this step is to use a piping bag or squeeze bottle to fill the molds. This allows you to control the flow of chocolate and fill the molds evenly, without leaving any air bubbles or other defects. It also helps to tap the molds gently on the counter to release any trapped air before you put them in the fridge to set. If you don’t have a piping bag or squeeze bottle, you can also use a spoon or spatula, but it might be a bit messier.

The final step in the process is removing the chocolate from the molds. Here’s where the flexibility of silicone molds really comes in handy – the chocolate should release easily and cleanly, without the need for any special tools or techniques. Just gently bend the molds to release the chocolate, and voila! You should have a perfectly formed candy ready to enjoy or to further decorate. If you do encounter issues with the candy not coming out as it should, you can put the molds in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes to firm them up and try again.

One thing to keep in mind is that you should not use metal utensils or knives when working with silicone molds, as they can scratch the surface and make it more difficult for the chocolate to release. Also, avoid using abrasive cleaning agents or scouring pads, as these can damage the molds. A simple wash with warm water and soap is enough for cleaning.

Conclusion

As you can see, working with silicone molds is a straightforward and enjoyable process, with many benefits over traditional metal molds. They are flexible, easy to use, and clean, and they allow you to achieve a high-quality finish on your candy. With a little practice and these techniques in your arsenal, you’ll be able to create beautiful, professional-looking chocolate cand right at home. Happy molding!