Shamrock Haystacks
Chocolate Project

By Bob Sherman

Toasted coconut haystacks are a popular confection among coconut lovers and this simple project shows how to get that haystack flavor with a more refined appearance. A Shamrock motif was used, but this technique may be applied to any occasion.

Most of the items you may need can be ordered directly from this page for your convenience.

PLEASE NOTE!! - Although chocolate making is relatively safe for the entire family to participate, adult supervision is required.

Chocolate
I prefer to use chocolate wafers designed for home molding chocolate. My preferred brand is Merckens which works well with all chocolate molding projects, is available in a wide selection of colors, and tastes great.

Melting Chocolate
Either melting method may be used, but you need to melt a fairly large amount so I find the double boiler more convenient.

Double Boiler - See Double Boiler Usage Instructions.

A microwave may also be used but care must be taken not to overheat the chocolate.

1. Place the chocolate in a microwave safe bowl.
2. Heat for 30 seconds.
3. Remove and stir.
4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the chocolate is creamy.
5. Optimum pouring temperature is about 90 degrees F. Note: Pouring chocolate molds hotter than 160 degrees F. will destroy the mold. Do not place the thermometer in the microwave!

Chocolate Making Supplies And Materials

The following chocolate making supplies and other materials were used to make this project. Clicking on the item name will bring you to that item's page with a full description and ordering information.

Step By Step Instructions

1. The mold is used without modifications.	2. Ready made toasted coconut shreds were used. Those who are really ambitious may want to try making these themselves, but that adds a lot of time and effort to this simple project.
3. The toasted coconut is stirred into the melted chocolate a little at a time.	4. The amount of toasted coconut to use is a matter of personal taste. Using less than you would in a regular haystack will make it easier to mold.
5. Spoon it into the mold cavities. Rap the mold against the counter several times to loosen any trapped air.	6. These may be made into lollys by adding a stick.
7. The finished shamrock haystacks both with and without sticks.

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Disclaimer: The information presented here is accurate to the best of my knowledge and common chocolate making practices as of the time of this writing - January 2007. The author and the publisher accept no liability for the use or misuse of any of the information presented in this article. This article is presented for informational purposes and is used at your own risk.

Author: Bob Sherman

Publisher: Bobby's Craft Boutique Inc.

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Home > Chocolate Making Supplies > Chocolate Making Projects > Saint Patrick's Day Projects > Shamrock Haystack Chocolate Project

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