Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain

Transforming Ordinary Gatherings into Decadent Celebrations

When I first unwrapped my Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain last Christmas, little did I know it would revolutionize every gathering I hosted. That gleaming tower of possibility sat on my counter, promising cascades of velvety chocolate and memories waiting to be made. Now, after countless parties, family reunions, and even a few “just because” Tuesday nights, I’m convinced: no celebration is truly complete without the mesmerizing flow of a chocolate fountain at its center.

The Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain isn’t just an appliance—it’s an experience, a conversation starter, and the ultimate crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned host or looking to elevate your entertaining game, this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about this delightful invention.

What Exactly Is a Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain?

At its core, a Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain is an elegantly designed culinary device that creates a continuous cascade of melted chocolate. The concept is brilliantly simple yet magically effective: the base houses a heating element that melts the chocolate, while an internal auger (a spiral-shaped pump) carries the liquid chocolate upward through a central cylinder. Once it reaches the top, gravity takes over, and the chocolate flows smoothly down multiple tiers, creating that iconic fountain effect that delights guests of all ages.

The visual appeal alone is worth the investment—there’s something almost hypnotic about watching the glossy chocolate river flowing endlessly. But the real magic happens when you surround it with platters of dippable treats, transforming ordinary strawberries, marshmallows, and pretzel sticks into extraordinary indulgences.

What separates Chocomaker from other chocolate fountains on the market is its thoughtful engineering. The company has clearly put considerable effort into creating a product that balances form and function. The fountains feature elegant designs that look sophisticated on any buffet table, while their mechanical components work reliably to keep the chocolate flowing at the perfect consistency.

Finding Your Perfect Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain

When I decided to purchase my Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain, I was initially overwhelmed by the options. If you’re in the same boat, don’t worry—I’ve done the legwork for you.

Chocomaker Chocolate Fountains are widely available through various retail channels. Major department stores like Walmart, Target, and Bed Bath & Beyond typically carry various models. For those who prefer online shopping, Amazon offers the complete Chocomaker lineup, often with customer reviews to help guide your decision. Additionally, specialty kitchen stores and party supply retailers frequently stock these fountains, especially around holiday seasons.

If you’re looking for the most competitive pricing, I’ve found that seasonal sales can offer significant discounts. Black Friday, post-Christmas clearances, and summer wedding season promotions are particularly good times to watch for deals. Signing up for retailer newsletters can alert you to upcoming sales—that’s how I managed to snag mine at 30% off!

When comparing retailers, consider not just the price but also the warranty terms, return policies, and whether they offer any exclusive models or bundle deals with chocolate packages or dipping accessories.

The Science Behind the Sweet Cascade

Understanding how your Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain works will help you achieve perfect results every time. The process is a brilliant combination of simple physics and careful temperature control.

The heart of the fountain is its heating base, which maintains the chocolate at the ideal temperature—warm enough to flow smoothly but not so hot that it burns or loses its flavor profile. Most Chocomaker models feature adjustable temperature settings, allowing you to fine-tune based on the chocolate type and ambient room conditions.

The mechanical magic happens via the auger system—a corkscrew-like mechanism that rotates within the central column. As it turns, it creates an Archimedes’ screw effect, drawing the melted chocolate upward against gravity. Once the chocolate reaches the crown at the top of the fountain, it spills over onto the cascading tiers below, creating that signature flowing curtain of chocolate that invites dipping and drizzling.

The tiered design isn’t just for show—it’s carefully engineered to maintain an even, unbroken flow while maximizing the surface area of flowing chocolate. This creates more opportunities for dipping and ensures the chocolate remains in motion, preventing it from cooling and hardening.

What impressed me most was the whisper-quiet motor in my Chocomaker. Unlike some competing models that buzz obtrusively, Chocomaker fountains run with minimal noise, allowing conversation to flow as freely as the chocolate.

Choosing the Perfect Chocolate for Your Fountain

Not all chocolate performs equally well in a fountain setting, and this is where many first-time users encounter challenges. The key to a perfectly flowing fountain is selecting chocolate with the right cocoa butter content and preparing it properly.

Chocomaker offers their own specially formulated fountain chocolate, which comes in convenient wafer form designed to melt easily and flow consistently. These chocolate wafers are available in dark, milk, and white varieties, and they’re my go-to for foolproof results.

That said, you can absolutely use other brands of chocolate as well. If you’re using standard chocolate bars or chips, opt for higher-quality brands that contain genuine cocoa butter rather than vegetable oil substitutes. Belgian and other European chocolates typically perform excellently due to their higher cocoa butter content.

For those who prefer to use regular chocolate chips from the grocery store, you’ll need to add a small amount of neutral-flavored oil (canola works well) to achieve the right consistency—about 1/4 cup of oil per 2 pounds of chocolate is a good starting point.

I’ve experimented extensively with different chocolates and found that my guests particularly love when I use Ghirardelli bittersweet chocolate with a touch of orange oil added for a sophisticated flavor twist. For kid-focused events, I’ll often go with Guittard milk chocolate wafers, which have a crowd-pleasing sweetness and melt like a dream.

White chocolate requires special attention—it has different melting properties and is more sensitive to overheating. When using white chocolate, lower your temperature setting slightly and monitor it more closely.

The Cleanup Question: Easier Than You Think

One of the most common concerns I hear from potential fountain owners is about cleanup. Let me assure you—the Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain has been designed with this concern in mind, and the process is far simpler than you might expect.

The fountain disassembles into its component parts easily, with no tools required. The removable tiers, crown, and auger can be separated from the base in under a minute. These parts are generally dishwasher-safe (top rack only), though I personally prefer to hand wash to ensure the longevity of the finish.

For cleaning, I follow this simple routine that’s never failed me:

1. Once unplugged and cooled, I disassemble the fountain and scrape any remaining chocolate back into the basin using a silicone spatula.
2. I fill my sink with warm, soapy water and submerge all the removable parts (except the electrical base, of course).
3. After a brief soak (5-10 minutes is usually sufficient), most of the chocolate slides right off.
4. For any stubborn spots, a soft sponge does the trick without scratching the surfaces.
5. I then rinse everything thoroughly and allow it to air dry completely before reassembling.

The electrical base requires different handling—it should never be submerged. Instead, wipe it clean with a damp cloth, taking special care around the heating element and control knobs.

One pro tip I’ve discovered: cleaning is exponentially easier if you don’t let the chocolate harden in the first place. When possible, I disassemble and clean the fountain while the chocolate is still warm and fluid.

Capacity Considerations: How Much Chocolate Will You Need?

Chocomaker offers various models with different capacity specifications. The standard home models typically hold between 2-4 pounds of chocolate, while their commercial or party-sized options can accommodate up to 6-8 pounds.

For context, a 3-pound capacity fountain is generally sufficient for a gathering of 10-15 people, assuming you’re offering a reasonable variety of dipping items. For larger events, I recommend either opting for a higher-capacity model or planning to refill the fountain during the event.

When calculating how much chocolate to purchase, I always buy about 25% more than the fountain’s stated capacity. This accounts for coating the interior surfaces of the fountain when you first start it up and allows for replenishment as the event progresses. There’s nothing worse than running out of chocolate mid-party!

It’s worth noting that chocolate loses volume as it melts, so what might seem like “too much” when you’re looking at solid chocolate wafers will be just right once melted. For my standard 3-pound fountain, I typically have 4 pounds of chocolate on hand for an average party.

Standout Features That Make Chocomaker Shine

After comparing numerous chocolate fountains on the market, several features make the Chocomaker stand out from the competition:

The heat control system on Chocomaker fountains is particularly impressive, offering precise temperature regulation that prevents overheating while maintaining optimal flow. This is crucial for preventing that burnt chocolate taste that can ruin an otherwise perfect dessert experience.

Most models feature a removable basin, which dramatically simplifies both setup and cleanup. This design also makes it easier to pre-melt your chocolate separately (which I recommend for smoother results) and then transfer it to the fountain.

The stability of Chocomaker fountains is another highlight. The base features rubberized feet that prevent sliding, and the fountain components lock together securely. This might seem like a minor detail until you’ve seen a poorly designed fountain wobble precariously on a buffet table!

Chocomaker’s auger system is engineered for reliability, with a powerful yet quiet motor that maintains consistent chocolate flow without straining. This reduces the risk of clogging or uneven flow that can plague lesser fountains.

Many models include innovative features like illuminated bases that create a stunning visual display, especially in dimmed lighting. These LED-illuminated options cast a warm glow through the flowing chocolate, elevating the presentation from merely appetizing to truly spectacular.

Beyond Chocolate: Exploring Alternative Fountain Flavors

While chocolate is undoubtedly the classic choice for fondue fountains, the Chocomaker’s versatility extends beyond cocoa-based delights. With proper preparation, you can use your fountain for a variety of sweet and savory options.

Caramel fountains create an irresistible alternate option, perfect for dipping apple slices, pretzel rods, and brownies. To achieve the right consistency, I recommend commercial fountain caramel or carefully thinning standard caramel with heavy cream while warming.

For savory events, cheese fountains can be show-stoppers. A well-prepared nacho cheese sauce maintains excellent flow properties and pairs beautifully with tortilla chips, vegetable platters, and bread cubes. The key is maintaining the cheese at a slightly higher temperature than chocolate to prevent congealing.

Ranch or other creamy dressings can work with careful thinning and temperature control, though these require more attentive monitoring than chocolate.

However, I must note that when switching between dramatically different flavors (particularly between sweet and savory), thorough cleaning is essential. I actually recommend dedicated fountains if you regularly entertain with both chocolate and cheese options.

Additionally, some alternative sauces may cause more wear on the fountain’s motor due to their different viscosities. Always consult your specific model’s manual for guidance on approved alternatives.

Investment Value: What to Expect Price-Wise

The Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain line spans various price points to accommodate different budgets and needs. Entry-level home models typically range from $30-50, making them accessible for casual entertainers and chocolate enthusiasts.

Mid-range models with enhanced features like digital temperature controls, illuminated bases, or larger capacities generally fall between $60-100. These represent the sweet spot for most home users who entertain regularly but don’t need commercial-grade equipment.

Premium and commercial-grade Chocomaker fountains can range from $120-300+, offering larger capacities, more sophisticated temperature regulation, and heavier-duty construction designed for catering or frequent use.

When considering the investment, think about how frequently you’ll use the fountain. For my family, the per-use cost has worked out to just a few dollars per event, making it one of the most economical “wow factor” entertainments in my hosting repertoire.

While the initial purchase price is certainly a consideration, also factor in the operational costs—primarily the chocolate itself. Quality fountain chocolate typically costs $8-15 per pound, depending on the variety and brand. For a standard 3-pound fountain, expect to spend $25-45 on chocolate for each use.

Perfect Occasions for Chocolate Fountain Magic

A Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain elevates virtually any gathering, but certain occasions particularly benefit from this sweet centerpiece:

Wedding receptions become more memorable with a chocolate fountain station. I’ve seen couples personalize their fountains with chocolate in their wedding colors or signature flavor combinations that reflect their tastes.

Birthday parties take on new life with a fountain—children and adults alike are drawn to the interactive dessert experience. For my niece’s 10th birthday, we set up a fountain with multiple dipping stations, allowing guests to create their own unique dessert combinations.

Holiday celebrations are natural settings for chocolate fountains. During Christmas gatherings, I surround my fountain with red and green dipping options like strawberries and kiwi slices. For Halloween, pretzel sticks and marshmallows become “bones” and “ghosts” when dipped.

Corporate events gain a touch of sophistication and playfulness with a professionally presented chocolate fountain. The interactive nature encourages mingling and conversation among attendees.

Anniversary celebrations, graduation parties, baby showers, and retirement gatherings all benefit from the sense of luxury and indulgence a chocolate fountain provides.

But perhaps my favorite application has been the “just because” evenings—transforming an ordinary family movie night into something special with a small fountain and simple dipping items. These unexpected moments of delight create lasting memories without requiring a special occasion.

Finding the Right Size for Your Needs

Chocomaker offers their chocolate fountains in several sizes to accommodate different event scales and space constraints:

Mini fountains (typically 8-10 inches tall) are perfect for intimate gatherings of 2-8 people. These compact models hold approximately 1-1.5 pounds of chocolate and can be placed comfortably on coffee tables or small dining surfaces. They’re also ideal for families with children who want to enjoy occasional fountain treats without committing to a larger setup.

Standard home fountains (generally 12-16 inches tall) serve groups of 10-20 people comfortably. With a 2-4 pound chocolate capacity, these versatile models strike an excellent balance between impact and practicality for most home entertainers.

Party-sized fountains (18-24 inches tall) accommodate larger gatherings of 25-50 guests. These impressive towers hold 4-6 pounds of chocolate and create a dramatic focal point for significant celebrations.

Commercial fountains (24+ inches tall) are designed for professional events, with capacities of 6-12+ pounds of chocolate, capable of serving 50-100+ guests continuously.

When selecting your size, consider not just guest count but also:

• Available table space
• Storage space when not in use
• How frequently you’ll use it
• Whether you entertain large groups regularly

I personally opted for a standard home model that serves my typical gathering size of 8-15 people perfectly, while still being compact enough to store easily in my kitchen cabinet.

Renting vs. Buying: Making the Right Choice

For those who aren’t ready to commit to purchasing a fountain outright, rental options present an appealing alternative. Many party supply companies offer Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain rentals for special events.

Rental prices typically range from $50-150 for a 24-hour period, depending on the fountain size and whether attendants are included. Some companies offer package deals that include the chocolate and dipping items for a comprehensive solution.

Renting makes particular sense for one-time events like weddings or milestone anniversary celebrations, where you want the impact without the long-term commitment. It’s also an excellent way to “test drive” the experience before deciding to purchase.

However, if you entertain regularly or plan to use the fountain more than 2-3 times annually, purchasing quickly becomes more economical than renting. My fountain paid for itself by the third use compared to local rental prices.

When renting, be sure to inquire about:

• Whether setup and breakdown services are included
• If chocolate and dipping items are provided or separate
• Any cleaning fees if you return the fountain uncleaned
• Deposit requirements and damage policies

Maintenance and Care: Ensuring Longevity

With proper care, a quality Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain can provide years of delightful service. My own fountain is approaching its fifth year and still performs flawlessly thanks to these maintenance practices:

Thorough cleaning after each use is non-negotiable. Beyond the basic cleaning described earlier, pay special attention to the auger mechanism, where chocolate can hide in crevices.

Proper storage helps prevent damage. I store my fountain in its original box, which provides perfect-fitting compartments for each component. If you’ve discarded the box, consider wrapping each piece in bubble wrap or cloth to prevent scratches and chips during storage.

Regular inspection of the motor and heating element before use helps catch any potential issues before they ruin your event. Listen for any unusual sounds during operation that might indicate motor strain.

The rubber feet on the base can sometimes collect dust or lose their grippiness over time. Cleaning them with a damp cloth and ensuring they’re completely dry before use maintains their stability function.

For fountains used infrequently, a quick “test run” with water a day before your planned chocolate event can identify any issues in advance, giving you time to address them before your guests arrive.

Warranty Coverage and Replacement Parts

Most Chocomaker Chocolate Fountains come with a standard one-year limited warranty covering manufacturing defects and mechanical failures under normal use. Some higher-end models offer extended warranty options of 2-3 years.

Should you need replacement parts beyond the warranty period, Chocomaker maintains a customer service department that can help with common replacement parts like augers, tiers, and control knobs. Their website typically includes a support section where specific parts can be ordered.

Third-party retailers like Amazon and specialty kitchen stores sometimes carry replacement components as well. I’ve found that keeping the original documentation and model information readily accessible makes the replacement process much smoother when needed.

For minor issues like small cracks in a tier or crown piece, food-safe epoxy designed for kitchen appliances can sometimes extend the life of the component until a replacement arrives.

Expert Setup Tips for Flawless Fountains

After dozens of chocolate fountain events, I’ve developed a reliable setup routine that ensures success every time:

Level placement is absolutely critical for proper flow. Even slight tilting can cause uneven chocolate distribution and bare spots on the tiers. I always bring a small bubble level to check my setup surface, using thin coasters under the fountain base if needed to achieve perfect levelness.

Pre-melting the chocolate saves significant time and results in better consistency. Rather than waiting for the fountain to melt solid chocolate (which can take 20-30 minutes and sometimes results in uneven melting), I pre-melt my chocolate using either:

• A double boiler method on the stove
• Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between each
• A dedicated chocolate melter appliance

Allow 15-20 minutes for the fountain to heat properly before adding chocolate. This ensures the entire apparatus is at the optimal temperature, preventing the chocolate from cooling and thickening as it contacts the tiers.

For outdoor events, wind guards are essential. Even gentle breezes can disrupt the chocolate curtain and introduce debris. I’ve fashioned simple shields using clear acrylic sheets when commercial guards weren’t available.

Position your fountain away from high-traffic paths to prevent bumping, which can disturb the flow or potentially cause tipping. I typically place mine at the end of a buffet table rather than in the center of foot traffic.

The Melting Timeline: Planning Your Chocolate Service

Understanding the timing involved helps ensure your fountain is ready when guests are:

For pre-melted chocolate added to a properly pre-heated fountain, you can expect perfect flow within 5-10 minutes of adding the chocolate to the basin.

If starting with solid chocolate directly in the fountain, allow 20-30 minutes for complete melting and optimal flow establishment. This method requires occasional stirring in the basin to ensure even melting.

Maintain perfect flow by monitoring the chocolate consistency throughout your event. For gatherings lasting several hours, you may need to adjust the temperature slightly as conditions change. Slightly higher settings may be needed as the room warms from guest body heat, while lower settings prevent burning during extended operation.

I typically plan to have my fountain fully operational at least 15 minutes before I anticipate guests will begin using it. This buffer allows time to make any final adjustments to temperature or consistency.

For lengthy events, consider a scheduled “refresh” where you briefly turn off the auger (keeping the heat on), add fresh chocolate to replenish what’s been used, and then restart the flow. This maintains optimal levels and consistency throughout the event.

The Oil Question: Achieving Perfect Flow

One of the most common questions about chocolate fountains concerns whether oil is necessary for proper functioning. The answer depends on your chocolate choice:

Specially formulated fountain chocolates from Chocomaker typically require no additional oil, as they’re designed with the optimal cocoa butter percentage for flowing consistency.

Standard chocolate chips or bars usually benefit from added oil to achieve the ideal viscosity. The recommended ratio is approximately 1/4 cup of neutral oil (vegetable, canola, or coconut) per 2-3 pounds of chocolate.

The purpose of the added oil is to reduce chocolate’s natural tendency to thicken as it cools slightly during the fountain journey. Without sufficient flowing agents, chocolate can become too thick, straining the motor and creating uneven coverage on the tiers.

For those concerned about adding oil, there are alternatives. Some professional chocolatiers use paramount crystals (specialized cocoa butter products) that improve flow without affecting flavor. These can be found at specialty baking supply stores.

In my experience, using a small amount of high-quality neutral oil doesn’t noticeably impact the chocolate flavor while significantly improving the fountain performance. If you’re particularly sensitive to this issue, opt for fountain-specific chocolate formulations instead.

Signature Recipes for Your Chocomaker Adventures

While classic chocolate is always a crowd-pleaser, experimenting with signature flavored chocolate blends can make your fountain truly memorable:

Salted Caramel Chocolate Fountain

• 2 pounds high-quality milk chocolate
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (if needed for consistency)
  Melt the chocolate, stir in the caramel and salt, adjust consistency with oil if needed, then add to your preheated fountain.

Orange Dream White Chocolate Fountain

• 2 pounds white chocolate
• 2 teaspoons orange extract
• 1/4 teaspoon orange zest
• Orange food coloring (optional)
• 3-4 tablespoons vegetable oil (white chocolate typically needs more oil)
  This bright, citrusy option pairs beautifully with brownie bites and shortbread cookies.

Peppermint Dark Chocolate Fountain

• 2 pounds dark chocolate
• 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
• Crushed candy canes for garnishing dipped items
  Perfect for holiday gatherings, this refreshing combination is especially delightful with marshmallows and graham crackers.

Beyond flavoring the chocolate itself, consider creating themed dipping stations with coordinated options. My “Breakfast for Dessert” theme featured chocolate-dipped bacon, waffle pieces, and donut holes, which created a unique and memorable experience for my brunch guests.

The Verdict: Customer Experiences with Chocomaker

As part of my research for this article, I collected feedback from dozens of Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain owners and found several consistent themes:

Ease of assembly receives consistently high marks, with most users reporting they were able to set up their fountains within minutes, even without prior experience.

The quiet operation impresses many users who had expected more mechanical noise based on experiences with other brands. The gentle hum of the Chocomaker is easily masked by normal conversation or background music.

Durability stands out as a strength, with many customers reporting years of reliable operation with proper care. Several mentioned using their fountains for 30+ events without mechanical issues.

Temperature control accuracy is frequently praised, particularly in the mid-to-high-end models with digital controls. Users appreciate the ability to fine-tune heat settings to accommodate different chocolate types.

The most common criticisms involve cleaning challenges, particularly for users who let the chocolate harden before disassembly. This reinforces the importance of prompt cleaning after use.

Value for money is consistently rated highly, with many users noting that the fountain’s impact at gatherings far exceeds its price point. As one reviewer succinctly put it, “No other dessert option creates as much excitement per dollar spent.”

The Sweet Conclusion

After living with my Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain for years and researching extensively for this guide, I’m more convinced than ever that this delightful appliance deserves a place in every entertainer’s arsenal. The magic of watching guests’ faces light up as they approach the flowing chocolate never diminishes, and the versatility of the fountain ensures it’s never just a one-trick appliance.

Whether you’re hosting intimate family gatherings or grand celebrations, the Chocomaker Chocolate Fountain transforms ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. The combination of visual spectacle and interactive dining experience creates an atmosphere that static desserts simply cannot match.

As you consider adding this enchanting centerpiece to your entertaining repertoire, remember that the true value of a chocolate fountain lies not just in the decadent treats it creates, but in the connections and joyful moments it facilitates among your guests. In our increasingly digital world, these tangible, sensory experiences that bring people together become all the more precious.

So go ahead—take the plunge into the wonderful world of chocolate fountains. With the knowledge from this guide and a quality Chocomaker Fountain at your disposal, you’re well-equipped to create sweet memories that will flow as smoothly as the chocolate itself.