Is there anything that warms a body as quickly in the winter than a hot drink?  Why not combine everyone’s enjoyment of hot beverages with a chocolate dipping spoon for stirring into a terrific elementary school fundraiser!

With the culinary help of a committee of moms, you can whip up a variety of chocolate dipping spoons to be sold in packages by themselves or placed in all occasion gift packages.  How’s that for a delicious chocolate fundraiser! How easy are they to make?  Just this easy:

Use a microwave to melt chocolate chips (12 oz.) in a heatproof container (a deep cup) at half power for one minute.  Stir, and repeat every 30 minutes until chocolate is fully melted.  Stir in one teaspoon of shortening to blend and other special flavorings.  Dip spoons to be used into the chocolate to coat, usually about one inch up the handle.  If the chocolate container starts to harden, just microwave again for 30 seconds at half power.

Dark and light chocolate is a must, but don’t stop there.  Be creative and cover chocolate layers with butterscotch or chocolate mint chips.  Crush candy bars or fragrant coffee beans and coat the chocolate spoons with those crumbs.  Add almond or peppermint oils to the melted chocolate for added flavor.

Cool spoons on wax paper to set, then into the freezer for 15 min for easier wrapping. Plastic spoons and cellophane wrap can be purchased wholesale at supply stores.  Fill inexpensive white mugs or colored ones if they are cost efficient.  Add a few individually wrapped chocolate spoons tied with colorful bows inside.  For larger gift baskets add black tea varieties, instant coffee or hot chocolate packets.

If you want to kick this idea into “elegant” for higher priced sales, use antique sterling silver spoons. (Any size will work.)  Parents may have odd silver spoons they don’t use anymore that they would be willing to donate.   A committee can scour yard sales, thrift shops or antique stores.  (Don’t forget to check Ebay!)  Put the kids to work polishing and thoroughly cleaning all the spoons to a bright shine.

Another idea is to take an appropriate sized clear glass vase, and fill it with a festive bouquet of chocolate covered dipping spoons!  When entertaining, guests can choose to stir their beverage with a spoon “flower” for a delicious and entertaining party idea. Charge a dollar a spoon, or a half dozen for five, or price according to your bundles.