Chocolate Balls and Stars

To create delicious and attractive chocolate globes, start by inflating the balloons, ensuring they are the right size to form globes. Tie them well to prevent air leaks. In a pot, place a smaller bowl with water and bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat so that the water simmers; this is the bain-marie process. Add chopped chocolate into the bowl above, stirring constantly until it completely melts. Once the chocolate reaches a smooth consistency, let it cool slightly so that it is not too liquid when you use it.

After the chocolate has cooled, prepare a piping bag and attach a small nozzle. Now, with plenty of patience and precision, draw thin lines of chocolate on the surface of the balloon, forming a spiral pattern or a mesh. Make sure the chocolate is evenly distributed but not too thick, to allow for proper hardening. Place the chocolate-drawn balloons in a sieve or on a rack, letting them harden completely. Once the chocolate has solidified, take a small pair of scissors and carefully cut one end of the chocolate weave. Use a needle to gently pop the balloon, being careful not to destroy the chocolate globe. Once the balloon has collapsed, carefully remove it from inside the chocolate, creating a perfect globe. Finally, attach a hanging system, such as a clip, so it can be easily suspended.

For the chocolate stars, line the bottom of a tray with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Proceed the same way as before, melting the grated chocolate in a bain-marie. Using a teaspoon, place ½ teaspoon of chocolate on the parchment paper. Use a toothpick to create rays, starting from the center of the mound and moving toward the edges, forming a star. Once you have finished drawing the shapes, refrigerate the tray until the chocolate hardens well. When it is completely solidified, carefully peel the stars off the paper. Use a toothpick to make a small hole in each star and tie them with fine thread so they can be hung.

These chocolate globes and stars are perfect for decorating the Christmas tree or adding a touch of magic to the festive table. With these treats, you will bring not only an attractive appearance but also an irresistible taste, transforming the holiday atmosphere into an unforgettable experience.