Dove Promises Chocolate Recipes: Inspired by My Uncle’s Sweet Tooth
My Uncle Jerry, a man of simple pleasures and unwavering affections, has always held a special place in his heart for Dove Promises chocolates. He keeps a stash in his desk drawer, one in his car, and even a few hidden in the glove compartment of his boat. For him, these silky smooth chocolates aren’t just a treat; they’re a little moment of calm in a hectic day, a tiny indulgence that brings a smile to his face. Inspired by his unwavering love for Dove Promises, I’ve created a collection of recipes that showcase these delightful chocolates in unexpected and delicious ways. Get ready to elevate your baking and dessert game with these easy-to-follow recipes, all starring Dove Promises.
## Why Dove Promises? A Chocolate Lover’s Confession
Before we dive into the recipes, let’s talk about why Dove Promises chocolates are so special. It’s not just the smooth, melt-in-your-mouth texture, or the rich, satisfying flavor. It’s the little messages tucked inside each wrapper. Those tiny bits of wisdom, encouragement, and love add an extra layer of sweetness to every bite. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a little dose of positivity with their chocolate?
Dove Promises come in a variety of flavors, from classic milk chocolate and dark chocolate to exciting variations like caramel-filled and peanut butter. This versatility makes them perfect for baking and creating unique desserts. They melt beautifully, add a rich depth of flavor, and provide a touch of elegance to any recipe.
## Recipe 1: Dove Promises Chocolate Chunk Cookies
These aren’t your average chocolate chip cookies. The chunks of Dove Promises chocolate create pockets of gooey, decadent goodness in every bite. The combination of soft, chewy dough and rich, melted chocolate is simply irresistible.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
* 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
* 1 teaspoon baking soda
* 1 teaspoon salt
* 2 cups Dove Promises chocolates, unwrapped and roughly chopped (I like to use a mix of milk and dark chocolate)
* Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
**Instructions:**
1. **Preheat and Prepare:** Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. **Cream Butter and Sugars:** In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes using an electric mixer. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the bowl occasionally to ensure everything is evenly mixed.
3. **Add Eggs and Vanilla:** Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. **Combine Dry Ingredients:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
5. **Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients:** Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough cookies.
6. **Fold in Chocolate Chunks and Nuts (Optional):** Gently fold in the chopped Dove Promises chocolates and nuts (if using) until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. **Drop by Rounded Tablespoons:** Drop rounded tablespoons of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
8. **Bake:** Bake for 9-11 minutes, or until the edges are golden brown and the centers are still slightly soft. The cookies will continue to set as they cool.
9. **Cool:** Let the cookies cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **For extra chewy cookies:** Use slightly more brown sugar than granulated sugar.
* **For a richer flavor:** Use browned butter. To brown butter, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Continue cooking, swirling the pan occasionally, until the butter turns a nutty brown color and has a fragrant aroma. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before using.
* **Add a pinch of sea salt:** A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the cookies before baking will enhance the sweetness and create a delicious salty-sweet flavor.
* **Experiment with different flavors of Dove Promises:** Try using caramel-filled or peanut butter Dove Promises for a unique twist.
## Recipe 2: Dove Promises Chocolate Mousse
This decadent chocolate mousse is surprisingly easy to make and requires only a few ingredients. The richness of the Dove Promises chocolate shines through in this elegant dessert.
**Ingredients:**
* 8 ounces Dove Promises dark chocolate, unwrapped and finely chopped
* 1/4 cup heavy cream
* 3 large eggs, separated
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* Pinch of salt
* Optional: Fresh berries for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Place the chopped Dove Promises dark chocolate and heavy cream in a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (double boiler). Make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t touch the water. Stir constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and smooth. Remove from heat.
2. **Whisk Egg Yolks and Sugar:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and granulated sugar until pale yellow and slightly thickened. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
3. **Temper the Egg Yolks:** Slowly drizzle the melted chocolate mixture into the egg yolk mixture, whisking constantly to prevent the eggs from scrambling. This process is called tempering and helps to ensure a smooth and creamy mousse.
4. **Whisk Egg Whites:** In a clean, dry bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip the egg whites, as they will become dry and difficult to incorporate into the chocolate mixture.
5. **Fold in Egg Whites:** Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the chocolate mixture in two additions. Be careful not to deflate the egg whites, as this will result in a flat mousse. Use a spatula and fold from the bottom up, until just combined. A few streaks of egg white are okay.
6. **Divide and Chill:** Divide the mousse into individual serving dishes or glasses. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the mousse to set.
7. **Garnish and Serve:** Before serving, garnish with fresh berries, chocolate shavings, or a dollop of whipped cream, if desired.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **For a richer flavor:** Use a higher percentage of dark chocolate.
* **Add a touch of coffee:** Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules to the melted chocolate for a mocha-flavored mousse.
* **Infuse the cream:** Infuse the heavy cream with vanilla bean or orange zest for a more complex flavor. To do this, heat the cream in a saucepan over medium heat with the vanilla bean or orange zest. Let it simmer for a few minutes, then remove from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes. Strain the cream before using.
* **Make it vegan:** Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and the eggs with aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas). Whip the aquafaba until stiff peaks form, just like egg whites.
## Recipe 3: Dove Promises Chocolate Bark
This simple chocolate bark is a perfect treat for holidays, parties, or just because. It’s customizable with your favorite toppings and makes a beautiful and delicious gift.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces Dove Promises chocolate, unwrapped (I like to use a mix of milk, dark, and white chocolate)
* Your favorite toppings (e.g., pretzels, nuts, dried fruit, sprinkles, crushed peppermint candies, sea salt)
**Instructions:**
1. **Melt the Chocolate:** Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Melt the Dove Promises chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth. If using multiple types of chocolate, melt them separately.
2. **Spread the Chocolate:** Pour the melted chocolate onto the prepared baking sheet and spread it into an even layer. If using multiple types of chocolate, you can create swirls or layers by drizzling one chocolate over another and using a toothpick or knife to swirl them together.
3. **Add Toppings:** Immediately sprinkle your favorite toppings over the melted chocolate. Press them gently into the chocolate to help them adhere.
4. **Chill:** Refrigerate the chocolate bark for at least 30 minutes, or until it is completely set.
5. **Break into Pieces:** Once the bark is set, break it into pieces with your hands or a knife.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Get creative with toppings:** The possibilities are endless! Try using different types of nuts, dried fruit, candies, spices, or even edible flowers.
* **Make it festive:** Customize the bark for different holidays by using seasonal toppings, such as red and green sprinkles for Christmas or pastel candies for Easter.
* **Add a drizzle of caramel or peanut butter:** Drizzle melted caramel or peanut butter over the chocolate before adding the toppings for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Use different types of chocolate:** Experiment with different combinations of milk, dark, and white chocolate to create unique flavor profiles.
## Recipe 4: Dove Promises Chocolate Covered Strawberries
A classic for a reason! Chocolate covered strawberries are elegant, romantic, and incredibly easy to make. The smooth, rich chocolate complements the juicy sweetness of the strawberries perfectly.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 pound fresh strawberries, washed and dried thoroughly
* 12 ounces Dove Promises chocolate, unwrapped (milk, dark, or white)
* Optional: Sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for decoration
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Strawberries:** Wash the strawberries and dry them thoroughly with paper towels. Make sure the strawberries are completely dry, as any moisture will prevent the chocolate from sticking properly.
2. **Melt the Chocolate:** Melt the Dove Promises chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
3. **Dip the Strawberries:** Hold a strawberry by the stem or leaves and dip it into the melted chocolate, coating about two-thirds of the strawberry. Gently shake off any excess chocolate.
4. **Decorate (Optional):** If desired, immediately dip the chocolate-covered strawberry into sprinkles, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut.
5. **Set on Parchment Paper:** Place the dipped strawberries on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. **Chill:** Refrigerate the strawberries for at least 15-20 minutes, or until the chocolate is set.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use high-quality strawberries:** Choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor.
* **Dry the strawberries thoroughly:** This is crucial for the chocolate to adhere properly.
* **Use a toothpick for intricate designs:** Drizzle melted white chocolate or dark chocolate over the dipped strawberries using a toothpick to create intricate designs.
* **Add a touch of liquor:** Add a tablespoon of your favorite liquor, such as rum or brandy, to the melted chocolate for an extra kick.
## Recipe 5: Dove Promises Chocolate Lava Cakes
Individual molten chocolate lava cakes with a gooey center of Dove Promises chocolate. These are deceptively easy to make and are guaranteed to impress.
**Ingredients:**
* 4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, plus more for greasing ramekins
* 4 ounces Dove Promises dark chocolate, finely chopped
* 2 large eggs
* 2 large egg yolks
* 1/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
* Pinch of salt
* Dove Promises milk chocolates, for the gooey center
* Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare Ramekins:** Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Grease two 6-ounce ramekins with butter and dust with flour, tapping out any excess. This will help the cakes release easily.
2. **Melt Butter and Chocolate:** In a heatproof bowl set over a simmering pot of water (double boiler), melt the butter and chopped dark chocolate together, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
3. **Whisk Eggs and Sugar:** In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, egg yolks, and granulated sugar until pale and slightly thickened. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. **Combine Mixtures:** Gradually whisk the melted chocolate mixture into the egg mixture until smooth and well combined.
5. **Add Flour and Salt:** Gently fold in the flour and salt until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
6. **Fill Ramekins:** Divide the batter evenly between the prepared ramekins. Place 2-3 Dove Promises milk chocolates in the center of each ramekin, pressing them down slightly into the batter.
7. **Bake:** Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges of the cakes are set but the centers are still soft. The tops of the cakes should be slightly puffed.
8. **Cool Slightly and Invert:** Let the cakes cool in the ramekins for 1-2 minutes. Then, carefully invert them onto serving plates. If they don’t release easily, run a thin knife around the edges of the ramekins.
9. **Dust with Powdered Sugar (Optional):** Dust the cakes with powdered sugar, if desired, and serve immediately. The warm, gooey chocolate center is best enjoyed right away.
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Don’t overbake:** Overbaking will result in a cake without a molten center. The key is to bake until the edges are set but the center is still soft.
* **Use a kitchen scale:** For the most accurate results, use a kitchen scale to measure the ingredients.
* **Add a touch of coffee liqueur:** A tablespoon of coffee liqueur, such as Kahlua, can be added to the batter for a mocha-flavored lava cake.
* **Serve with ice cream or whipped cream:** A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream makes a perfect accompaniment to these decadent lava cakes.
## Recipe 6: Dove Promises Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
Homemade peanut butter cups are so much better than store-bought! These are easy to customize and you can use your favorite Dove Promises flavors in the chocolate shell.
**Ingredients:**
* 12 ounces Dove Promises chocolate, unwrapped (milk, dark, or a combination)
* 1 cup creamy peanut butter
* 1/2 cup powdered sugar
* 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Peanut Butter Filling:** In a medium bowl, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, softened butter, and salt. Mix until smooth and creamy. If the mixture is too thick, add a tablespoon of milk or cream to thin it out.
2. **Melt the Chocolate:** Melt the Dove Promises chocolate using a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.
3. **Line Muffin Tins:** Line a muffin tin with paper liners.
4. **Add Chocolate Layer:** Spoon a small amount of melted chocolate into the bottom of each muffin liner, spreading it evenly to coat the bottom and sides. Place the muffin tin in the refrigerator for about 5-10 minutes to allow the chocolate to set.
5. **Add Peanut Butter Filling:** Remove the muffin tin from the refrigerator. Spoon a small amount of the peanut butter filling into each cup, pressing it down gently.
6. **Top with Chocolate:** Pour the remaining melted chocolate over the peanut butter filling, spreading it evenly to cover the filling completely.
7. **Chill:** Return the muffin tin to the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or until the chocolate is completely set.
8. **Remove and Enjoy:** Once the chocolate is set, remove the peanut butter cups from the muffin liners and enjoy!
**Tips and Variations:**
* **Use natural peanut butter:** If you prefer a less sweet peanut butter cup, use natural peanut butter (the kind that separates). You may need to add a little extra powdered sugar to compensate for the lack of sweetness.
* **Add a layer of caramel:** Drizzle a thin layer of melted caramel over the peanut butter filling before topping with chocolate for an extra decadent treat.
* **Sprinkle with sea salt:** A sprinkle of sea salt on top of the chocolate before it sets will enhance the flavors and create a delicious salty-sweet combination.
* **Use different nut butters:** Experiment with different nut butters, such as almond butter or cashew butter, for a unique twist.
## Honoring Uncle Jerry’s Love for Dove
These recipes are more than just a collection of desserts; they’re a tribute to my Uncle Jerry’s simple joy in life. His unwavering love for Dove Promises chocolates has inspired me to explore new culinary creations and to appreciate the little moments of sweetness that make life so special. So, the next time you’re looking for a delicious and easy dessert, remember these recipes and add a touch of Dove Promises magic to your baking. And maybe, just maybe, share a chocolate with someone you love and spread a little bit of Uncle Jerry’s joy.