Craving candy melts but don’t want to spend the money? Or maybe you’re all out of candy melts and need a quick replacement.
No problem!
There are plenty of substitutes that will taste just as good (or better!). In this blog post, we’ll list 7 different substitutes for candy melts. Have a look!
Substitutes for Candy Melts
- Couverture chocolate
- Compound chocolate
- White chocolate
- Frosting
- Marshmallow
- Almond bark
- Kinako
Couverture chocolate
Couverture chocolate is a type of high-quality chocolate that contains at least 31% cocoa butter. This gives it a shinier texture and appearance than other types of chocolate, making it a popular choice for candy making.
Couverture chocolate comes in three varieties: dark, milk, and white. Each variety has a different cocoa content, which affects the flavor and color of the finished product.
Couverture chocolate can be used as a substitute for candy melt in many recipes. For example, if you are looking to create a shiny, glossy finish on your cakes or cupcakes, couverture chocolate is an excellent choice.
However, it is important to consider the flavor of the finished product. For example, dark couverture chocolate will give the candy a richer flavor, while milk couverture chocolate will make it sweeter.
Couverture chocolate can be found in most specialty stores or online retailers.
Compound chocolate
Compound chocolate is a type of chocolate that uses vegetable oils in place of cocoa butter. It is less expensive than true chocolate and is therefore often used as a cheaper alternative in candy making.
Compound chocolate can be easily melted and molded, making it ideal for dipping and coating applications. However, it does not have the same flavor or texture as true chocolate and may not be suitable for all recipes.
When substituting compound chocolate for candy melts, be sure to use a recipe that specifically calls for this type of chocolate. Otherwise, you may end up with an inferior product.
White chocolate
White chocolate is a delicious and versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of sweet dishes. While it doesn’t melt as easily as candy melts, it can be melted down and used as a replacement for candy melts in many recipes.
White chocolate is made from cocoa butter, milk powder, sugar, and vanilla. It has a lovely creamy flavor that is perfect for coating fruit, dipping marshmallows, or making truffles. White chocolate can also be used to decorate cakes and cupcakes.
If you’re looking for a delicious and versatile substitute for candy melts, look no further than white chocolate!
Frosting
Frosting is a type of icing used to decorate cakes and cookies. It is usually made with butter, eggs, sugar, milk, and flavoring. Cream cheese frosting is a popular variation, but it can be made in a variety of colors and flavors.
Frosting can be used as a substitute for candy melt in some cases. For example, if you are decorating a cake or cupcake and want to create intricate designs, it can be a better option than candy melt. It is easier to pipe and holds its shape better than candy melt. In addition, it can be flavored whereas candy melt is typically flavorless.
However, there are some disadvantages to using it as a substitute for candy melt. It is not as stable at room temperature as candy melt, so it may not be suitable for making dipped treats. It also takes longer to set than candy melt.
Marshmallow
Marshmallow is a popular candy that has been around for centuries. Unlike most candies, they are made from a combination of sugar, corn syrup, gelatin, and whipped air. This unique blend of ingredients gives marshmallows their characteristic soft, fluffy texture.
Marshmallows are often used as a topping on desserts or as a filling in cakes and cookies. However, they can also be used as a substitute for candy melt.
Marshmallows have a similar texture to candy melt, but they are less sweet and have a more neutral flavor. This makes them ideal for use in recipes where you want the sweetness of candy melt without the overwhelming flavor.
In addition, they are much softer than candy melt, making them easier to work with.
Almond bark
Almond bark is a chocolate-like substance that is made from sugar and vegetable fats. It is available in both milk and dark chocolate varieties.
Almond bark can be used as a substitute for candy melt in many recipes. It has a similar consistency and can be easily melted and molded into shapes. It is also less likely to seize up when cooled, so it is ideal for making candy coatings.
In addition, it can be tinted with food coloring or flavored with extracts to create unique flavor combinations. For example, try combining two flavors such as mint and orange, or strawberry and lemon.
Almond bark is a versatile ingredient that can be used in many different ways. With a little creativity, it can be used to create delicious and beautiful confections.
Kinako
Kinako is a Japanese ingredient made from roasted soybeans that have been ground into a powder. It has a nutty flavor and a golden brown color, and it is often used as a topping for dishes like rice balls and Kinako mochi.
Kinako can also be used as a substitute for candy melts. When melted, it provides a smooth, creamy texture that is perfect for coating cake pops or dipping strawberries.
In addition, its nutty flavor pairs well with chocolate, making it a great alternative for those who are looking for something a little different.
Finally, Kinako is much lower in sugar than candy melts, making it a healthier option for those with dietary restrictions.
FAQs
Are baking chocolate and candy melts the same thing?
No, they are not the same thing. Baking chocolate is made from cocoa solids, sugar, and cocoa butter. It is typically used in baking recipes where a rich chocolate flavor is desired.
Candy melts, on the other hand, are made from sugar, vegetable oils, and milk powder. They are designed for candy making and have a sweeter, lighter flavor.
Can I use candy melts to make chocolate chips?
No, candy melts are not the same as chocolate chips. Chocolate chips are made from chocolate that has been tempered. This process gives them a higher melting point and a crisp texture.
Candy melts, on the other hand, are designed to be melted and used for candy making. They have a lower melting point and a smooth, creamy texture.
What is the best substitute for candy melts?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best substitute for candy melts will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
If you are looking for a candy melt alternative that is less sweet and has a more neutral flavor, marshmallows are a good option.
If you need an ingredient that can be easily melted and molded into shapes, almond bark is a good choice.
And if you are looking for something with a nutty flavor, kinako is a great option.
Conclusion
There are a number of different substitutes for candy melts that can be used in recipes. Each one has its own unique properties and flavors that make them ideal for specific applications.
Marshmallows are less sweet with a more neutral flavor, making them good for recipes where you want the sweetness of candy melt without the overwhelming flavor.
Almond bark is easy to melt and mold, making it ideal for candy coating or dipping. And kinako is a great option for those who are looking for something with a nutty flavor.
No matter what your needs, there is sure to be a candy melt alternative that is perfect for you. So don’t be afraid to experiment and try something new!