How to Melt Chocolate

Here are how to melt chocolate or confectionery coating:

*In the microwave
This is a very easy way to melt chocolate.

How:
Place it in a microwave-safe bowl and zap it on high power at 10-second intervals, stirring each time, just until it's completely melted.

*In a slow cooker
The perfect way for melting chocolate and keeping it at just the right temperature while you work.

How:
Set on low heat and you need to stir it occasionally and keep an eye on it to make sure it's not getting too hot.

If it does get too hot, turn off the slow cooker, remove the insert, and stir in a couple of pieces of unmelted chocolate to cool it down quickly.

*In a double boiler
This method allows you the most temperature control, and is best for higher-quality chocolate.

How:
Set up your double boiler with a small amount of water, the water should not be touching the top pan and then warm it over medium-low heat.

Melt chocolate, stirring occasionally, just until the mixture is smooth, then remove the pan from the heat.

Once the chocolate is melted and smooth, you can spoon it into clean, dry plastic or squeeze bottles.

Set the bottles in a pan of warm water to stay at just the right temperature while you work.

Be sure to dry the bottles before using the chocolate.