Ghirardelli Chocolate Championship Produces a New Twist on a Campfire Treat

 Puyallup, WA – Sept. 22, 2009 – The velvety flavor of Ghirardelli chocolate tantalized the taste buds of the Puyallup Fair’s “Ghirardelli Chocolate Championship” judges. The competition was held in the Home Arts Department at the Puyallup Fair, which runs through Sept. 27.
 Karen Karsten of Buckley was awarded first place and $150 for her “S’more Pops” recipe. In second place was Kathleen Seaton of Bonney Lake, who received $50 for her “My Oh My Peanut Butter Tart.” Judy Lantz of Graham took third place for her “Gluten-Free Raspberry Brownies.” Each winner also received a Ghirardelli chocolate gift basket, ribbon, apron, and award certificate.

“S’more Pops”
Karen Karsten, Buckley

Yield: 18

1 cup Ghirardelli Classic White chips
2 tbsp. shortening (divided)
1 cup Ghirardelli Semi-Sweet Chocolate chips
1 tbsp. melted butter
1 cup graham cracker crumbs
18 marshmallows
toothpicks or skewers

1.    Melt white chocolate with one tablespoon of shortening in microwave for 30 second intervals
       until smooth.
2.    Melt semi-sweet chocolate with 1 tablespoon of shortening and stir completely until no lumps
       are present.
3.    Set aside. Note: It’s best to use mugs to melt the chocolate so you can dip the marshmallows
       into the mixture easily.
4.    Mix melted butter with graham cracker crumbs and put in a bowl.
5.    Stick a toothpick or skewer in each marshmallow.
6.    Toast marshmallows on burner or with a butane torch taking care to not over brown them.
7.    Dip marshmallow into melted white chocolate.
8.    Roll in graham cracker crumbs.
9.    Let cool and then dip bottoms into melted dark chocolate.
10. Cool and serve.

 The Home Arts Department is sponsored by CORE 4.

 The Puyallup Fair first started in 1900. This Pacific Northwest tradition is one of the top ten fairs in the world in attendance, and features big name entertainment, the PRCA Rodeo, rides, exhibits, food, flowers, and animals. For further information about the Sept. 11-27, 2009 Puyallup Fair, visit www.thefair.com or call the 24-hour hotline at (253) 841-5045.

# # #