Transform your desserts into elegant works of art with these stunning Decorative Chocolate Leaves! This simple yet sophisticated recipe uses just two ingredients—velvety melted dark chocolate and fresh, non-toxic edible leaves like mint or basil—to create edible decorations that mimic nature’s intricate beauty. With only 15 minutes of prep time, you’ll craft delicate chocolate pieces that capture the fine details of leaf veins, making them perfect for adorning cakes, cupcakes, or platters of fruit. Whether you're impressing dinner guests or adding a gourmet touch to your homemade treats, these chocolate leaves are easy to make and visually dazzling. Plus, they can be stored for up to a week, allowing you to prepare them ahead of time. Ideal for parties, seasonal desserts, or special occasions, this recipe is as functional as it is decorative!
Step 1: Gently wash the fresh leaves under cool water and pat them dry with a clean paper towel. Make sure they are completely dry before using.
Step 2: Chop the chocolate into small, even pieces and melt it using a double boiler or by microwaving in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring after each interval, until smooth.
Step 3: Using a pastry or silicone brush, paint a thick, even layer of melted chocolate on the underside (veiny side) of each leaf. This will ensure the chocolate takes on the detailed pattern of the leaf veins.
Step 4: Place the chocolate-coated leaves, chocolate side up, on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Refrigerate for 15-20 minutes or until the chocolate is fully set.
Step 5: Once the chocolate has hardened, carefully peel the fresh leaf off the chocolate by starting at the stem end and gently separating the leaf from the chocolate. Be patient to avoid breaking the delicate chocolate.
Step 6: Repeat with the remaining leaves. Use the finished chocolate leaves as decoration on your favorite desserts.
Optional Step: Store the chocolate leaves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week if not used immediately.
Calories |
551 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 31.1 g | 40% | |
| Saturated Fat | 19.0 g | 95% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 25 mg | 1% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 62.0 g | 23% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 7.5 g | 27% | |
| Total Sugars | 48.1 g | ||
| Protein | 5.2 g | 10% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 66 mg | 5% | |
| Iron | 12.2 mg | 68% | |
| Potassium | 609 mg | 13% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.