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.
