How to Make a Chocolate Topiary

The word topiary usually brings to mind a shrub or tree that is crafted into an animal or another decorative shape. Topiaries can also be made on a smaller scale with flowers or other materials as table decorations. A chocolate topiary is an ideal centerpiece that can also serve as a party favor at weddings, bar mitzvahs or other formal occasions. You can make a chocolate topiary with supplies from your local craft store and some high quality truffles.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Styrofoam ball or cone
• Wooden dowels
• Toothpicks
• Chocolate truffles
• Flower pot or plastic serving tray
• Marbles

1. Choose the shape and size of the chocolate topiary you want to make. Craft stores carry an assortment of styrofoam balls and cones that are appropriate for this project. If you are making centerpieces for multiple tables, you may want to also pick up some wooden dowels and make small "lollipop" shaped chocolate topiaries.

2. Buy a selection of chocolate truffles. Different kinds of truffles can make a topiary very colorful. The amount needed will depend on the size and shape of your topiary base. Covering a five-inch ball takes an average of 40 truffles.

3. Stick a toothpick through the bottom of each chocolate truffle, leaving the candy in its fluted paper. The toothpick should be halfway into the truffle.

4. Insert the truffle, on its toothpick, into the ball or cone shape you have chosen. Work gently to keep the candy intact. Cover the entire surface of the ball or cone with truffles, leaving a small space at the bottom free.

5. Attach the chocolate topiary to a sturdy base. If you are using a cone shape, glue the bottom to a plastic serving tray. Insert a wooden dowel into the bottom of your topiary ball if this is what you have chosen. Put the free end of the dowel into a small flowerpot filled with colorful marbles.