Chocolate Memories

by Sue Zelickson, Tastemaker in Residence

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Many might say a day without chocolate is a day not worth living. And when the word came out that dark chocolate is actually good for you, in moderation, of course, many chocolate lovers jumped for joy. My love of chocolate began early with a trip to Hershey, Pennsylvania, the home of all those candy bars and kisses. Watching the movie and reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, were also fond memories that I passed on to my kids and grandkids. Iveys Hot Fudge sundaes and chocolate malts from our own malted milk machine were highlights and top-rated items.

Then there was the day that Daytons became Marshall Fields and we had their famous Frango Mints at our fingertips. I adored those special chocolates from the first bite in my teenage years and still do to this very day. I’m most thankful that Macy’s still carries them. The original milk chocolate Frangos are my favs, but the holiday mint and caramel flavors are delicious too. Then there was my mother’s buttermilk chocolate cake. Her recipe, with the two frosting choices, was always a special treat highlighted when I mashed the pieces of cake in a bowl of vanilla ice cream; still to this day.

Here is the recipe...choose either of these yummy frostings, then try the other one next time.

My Mom's Buttermilk Chocolate Cake

Fudge Frosting

Coffee Frosting