Making your own custom chocolate candies using chocolate molds is a great way to add a personal touch to a special event or occasion.  Making chocolates with chocolate molds is easy and can be done in a short amount of time.  There are also many different shapes and designs available to meet just about any occasion.

There are some different types of chocolate molds available on the market that are made from different materials and because of this they have different characteristics.  Here is a brief synopsis of the chocolate molds available on the market and information about how they perform.

Plastic Molds – The most common chocolate molds are made of clear plastic.  They are the least expensive and are meant for craft and hobby users who only make small amounts of chocolates.  The type of plastic and thickness will vary a little bit from maker to maker.
   
Silicone Rubber Molds – Rubber molds are a little more expensive than plastic molds and are very popular with artisan style pasty chefs. Because they are made of silicone they are flexible and can handle higher temperatures than plastic chocolate molds.  This makes them useful for making other treats as well.

Polycarbonate Plastic Molds – Polycarbonate chocolate molds are sometimes called European chocolate molds because many of them are made in Europe.  They may also be referred to as professional quality molds, or confectionery grade molds.  They are typically the most expensive molds available.  These molds are very strong, are easy to use, provide a high gloss finish and last the longest of any of the different kinds of chocolate molds.  Most professional chocolatiers and pastry chefs prefer these types of chocolate molds.

Magnetic Molds – Magnetic chocolate molds are commonly used in making artisan chocolates or chocolates with logos.  They normally come in two parts and are used with chocolate transfer sheets to create graphic designs on top of the chocolates.  First, the transfer sheet is applied to one side of the mold, then both parts are held together with magnets, and the chocolate is cast.  After the chocolates set, the graphic design is transferred to the individual chocolate pieces.

Metal Molds – Before plastic and rubber molds were developed chocolate molds were normally made from metal.  You normally won’t find metal molds being manufactured any more, but don’t throw your old ones out just yet.  The actually have significant value among antique collectors.

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Here is a great quick and easy guide to making your own valentine treats at home by Eloisa Oceguera. 

She says:  “Once I pursued the idea of becoming a chocolatier. I pictured myself in France taking classes, making delicious creations and even building a big castle with everything made of chocolate …

One day, I’ll sign up for a chocolatier class in Vancouver, Belgium or France — of course! But until then, I’ll try making treats at home.

Professional or homemade confections can be challenging, but don’t despair. There are some simple techniques, as easy as melt, pour, mold and — voila! In no time the results will be deliciously rewarding.”

See the rest of the article and her step by step instructions here: Sweets for a Sweetie

More Candy Molds Information

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This is a first quality, tough plastic mold. It is durable and reusable. It is not machine washable. Suitable for chocolate and soap making as well as plaster and concrete crafting. FDA approved.

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This is a first quality, tough plastic mold. It is durable and reusable. It is not machine washable. Suitable for chocolate and soap making as well as plaster and concrete crafting. FDA approved.

Buy/More Info

Technorati Tags: cherry bon bon, Chocolate Molds

This is a first quality, tough plastic mold. It is durable and reusable. It is not machine washable. Suitable for chocolate and soap making as well as plaster and concrete crafting. FDA approved.

Buy/More Info

Technorati Tags: chocolate mold, eiffel tower

Many people consider the best chocolate molds to be the molds made from polycarbonate. Polycarbonate is a form of plastic that is recognized for its durability and capacity to withstand heat.  Chocolate molds are made from a special type of polycarbonate plastic that is approved for contact with food by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration.

Polycarbonate chocolate molds do cost more than regular hobby grade molds, but they will last a lot longer and produce a higher quality finished chocolate candy.  The completed candies come out of the mold more easily and end up with a high quality finish.

They can also be used with other materials for making special treats or decorations.  Although the majority of polycarbonate chocolate molds are made in Europe, there are some companies in the United States that manufacture them.

If you plan on using chocolate molds for a commercial purpose or for a long production run, you should seriously consider buying polycarbonate chocolate molds.

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