Using Baggie for Melted Chocolate/Ganache

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Discussion Overview

This thread explores the challenges and experiences of using baggies for dispensing melted chocolate or ganache. Participants share their personal encounters with bag explosions and offer various insights into potential causes and solutions.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses frustration with baggies exploding when trying to squirt melted chocolate or ganache.
  • Another participant suggests that heating the bag could weaken the plastic, while also emphasizing the importance of cutting a sufficiently large hole for the chocolate to flow.
  • Several users mention that squeezing too hard can lead to explosions, especially if the chocolate is thick.
  • One participant shares their experience of licking chocolate off their hands at home but notes it wouldn't be appropriate during a show.
  • Another participant suggests using sturdier bags, like freezer bags or Ziploc brand, to prevent issues.
  • One user mentions that the chocolate should not be too hot, as this can weaken the bag, and they recommend not sealing the bag tightly when pouring in the chocolate.
  • Another participant discusses the consistency of their chocolate, suggesting it is usually runny, and questions whether ganache can be made in the fridge instead of the freezer.
  • One participant shares a recipe for Saltine Toffee Cookies, which seems to be off-topic but included in the thread.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ on the best practices for using baggies, with some participants agreeing on the importance of using sturdy bags and proper techniques, while others share varied experiences without a clear consensus on a single solution.

Contextual Notes

Participants are sharing personal experiences and tips related to using baggies for melted chocolate or ganache, with some discussions veering off into unrelated recipe sharing.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants looking for insights on handling melted chocolate or ganache in demonstrations may find the shared experiences and tips relevant.

redsoxgirl
Messages
1,484
Everytime I use a baggie to squirt melted chocolate or ganache, the bag explodes... every single time.

Am I doing something wrong or does this happen to other people too?? :confused:

It doesn't look like a very good "tip" to guests when it's all over my hands!
 
Are you heating it in the bag? Because that would weaken the plastic. You also need to make sure that the hole you cut is big enough to allow the chocolate to flow.
 
  • Thread starter
  • #3
chefann said:
Are you heating it in the bag? Because that would weaken the plastic. You also need to make sure that the hole you cut is big enough to allow the chocolate to flow.

Nope, I heat it in a different container and then transfer it to the baggie. I feel like the hole is big enough, but maybe it isn't.
 
Sounds like you're squeezing too hard. If the chocolate or ganache are thick (like they've cooled off), it won't come out quickly. And squeezing it harder to try to make it come out fast will just make it burst.

Look at the bright side- you can lick off your hand! :D
 
  • Thread starter
  • #5
I definitely lick it off my hands when I practice at home, but I didn't think licking my hands at a show would be a good idea :p

I'm going to have to try some other stuff. I feel like the stuff is pretty runny and I'm not squeezing too hard, but maybe I've become Schwarzenegger!
 
Try heating the chocolate for less time...if it's TOO hot it will just weaken and melt the plastic bag.

Also, check the brand of plastic bag you are using. If you are using the ?-brand cheap flap fold sandwich baggies, they probably wouldn't work as well as a nice sturdy Ziplock bag.

And be sure you're not sealing the bag when you pour the chocolate inside.
 
redsoxgirl said:
I definitely lick it off my hands when I practice at home, but I didn't think licking my hands at a show would be a good idea :p
Yeah - licking one's fingers at a show is not a good idea. (I actually tell people that's the hardest part about being a consultant - not being able to lick fingers at a show.) I hope you didn't think I was being a smart-a$s about my suggestions, too. Sometimes things that are obvious to one person are not to another.
 
Try freezer bags. I know when I buy generic regular bags, they can be pretty thin but the generic freezer bags have a thicker bag.
 
redsoxgirl said:
Nope, I heat it in a different container and then transfer it to the baggie. I feel like the hole is big enough, but maybe it isn't.
Don't seal the baggie, just lightly twist the top so that when you squeeze the chocolate down through the cut hole it won't splooge out the top. :)
 
I am in agreement...either use Ziploc brand, or use a freezer bag. The only time I have had that happen to me, I was using a store brand ziptop bag! Ugh...what a mess! Thank goodness, I was at home and not at a demo!

You also really should not have to sqeeze very hard at all. If you have to, your hole may be too small or the chocolate too thick. You can even add a SMALL (1 teaspoon?) amount of veggie oil to the chocolate to thin it out.

HTH
 
It is always pretty runny for me ... maybe you're not heating it long enough?Also ... does anybody know whether you can make the ganache in the fridge instead of the freezer? High Maintainance Hostess was complaining to me that she doesn't have a big enoguh freezer ...
 
Looking for a recipe, but pretty sure it's not PCI just got back from my son's Cub Scout Christmas party and somebody had brought the most sinful treat...I'm sure I've seen it before or heard of it, but don't know what it's called or what the recipe is. I can identify most of the ingredients but not sure how it was assembled and quantities. Can you help?

It's got butter, saltines, brown sugar and chocolate and looks like it was made in a big sheet then broken into serving-size pieces.

I'd love to add this to my arsenal (I'm just not a "make it up by the seat of my pants" gal).

Thanks!
 
I just realized I didn't post this in the thread I thought...sorry! :-)
 
You can always tape the corner and then cut it...that will reinforce the plastic. Ü
 
  • Thread starter
  • #15
chefann said:
I hope you didn't think I was being a smart-a$s about my suggestions, too. Sometimes things that are obvious to one person are not to another.

No no Ann - not at all! Trust me, I've caught myself wanting to bring a finger of chocolate to my mouth at shows and had to mentally slap myself! LOL
 
Chefstover2 said:
I just got back from my son's Cub Scout Christmas party and somebody had brought the most sinful treat...I'm sure I've seen it before or heard of it, but don't know what it's called or what the recipe is. I can identify most of the ingredients but not sure how it was assembled and quantities. Can you help?

It's got butter, saltines, brown sugar and chocolate and looks like it was made in a big sheet then broken into serving-size pieces.

I'd love to add this to my arsenal (I'm just not a "make it up by the seat of my pants" gal).

Thanks!


Here is the recipe...they are super easy, and sooooooo good!
Make sure you line your stone or pan with foil for easy cleanup!

Saltine Toffee Cookies
Submitted by: Tracy
Rated: 5 out of 5 by 424 members Yields: 35 servings

"This is an easy to make but wonderfully delicious treat. We pack them in tins and give as gifts during the holidays. Use your favorite nuts to top the cookies."
INGREDIENTS:
4 ounces saltine crackers
1 cup butter
1 cup dark brown sugar 2 cups semisweet chocolate
chips
3/4 cup chopped pecans

DIRECTIONS:
1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F (205 degrees C).
2. Line cookie sheet with saltine crackers in single layer.
3. In a saucepan combine the sugar and the butter. Bring to a boil and boil for 3 minutes. Immediately pour over saltines and spread t cover crackers completely.
4. Bake at 400 degrees F (205 degrees C) for 5 to 6 minutes. Remove from oven and sprinkle chocolate chips over the top. Let sit for 5 minutes. Spread melted chocolate and top with chopped nuts. Cool completely and break into pieces.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED © 2007 Allrecipes.com Printed from Allrecipes.com


Here is the link in case you want to read the reviews: Saltine Toffee Cookies - Allrecipes
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use any type of baggie for melted chocolate or ganache?

It's best to use a heavy-duty resealable plastic bag for melted chocolate or ganache. Thinner bags may not hold up well under heat and pressure, which could lead to leaks or spills.

How do I melt chocolate in a baggie?

To melt chocolate in a baggie, place the chocolate in the bag and seal it tightly, removing as much air as possible. Submerge the bag in warm water or place it in the microwave in short intervals, kneading the bag gently until the chocolate is fully melted.

Can I reuse the baggie after melting chocolate?

Yes, you can reuse the baggie if it is still in good condition and free from any chocolate residue. Just make sure to wash it thoroughly with warm soapy water and let it dry completely before using it again.

How do I pour melted chocolate from the baggie without making a mess?

To pour melted chocolate from the baggie without making a mess, snip a small corner of the bag with scissors. This will give you better control over the flow of chocolate. You can also use a piping tip for more precision if desired.

What should I do if my chocolate hardens in the baggie?

If your chocolate hardens in the baggie, you can gently reheat it by placing the bag in warm water or using a microwave in short bursts. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the chocolate to seize. Knead the bag to help redistribute the heat evenly.

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