As the temperatures start to warm and the promise of spring brings the first blooms of the year, we wanted to come up with a great little hostess gift for those Easter celebrations. What better way to express gratitude for the warm welcome than with a gift that combines creativity and sweetness? Enter the delightful world of potted hand-painted chocolate tulip lollipops – a unique and charming token of appreciation that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
What you'll need:
20 ounces high-quality chocolate
Plastic tulip chocolate molds
Lollipop sticks
Parchment or wax paper
Edible Luster Dust in Colors of Choice
Fluffy brush, can be purchased in the cake decorating section of most craft stores
Clear plastic treat bags
Floral Styrofoam cone
Small spring pail or planter
Craft moss or paper grass
To make the lollipops themselves is quite simple; just melt the chocolate (I usually use a mixture of milk and dark but adding some white chocolate flowers in the mix would give the flowers a nice variety as well), pour into the mold cavities and tap against the counter to eliminate air bubbles, then place the stick in the melted chocolate and pop in the refrigerator to harden.
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Once the lollipops have hardened, you can release them from the molds onto a piece of wax or parchment paper and paint them with a variety of colors using the luster dust.Â
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Once painted, allow the lollipops to cure for a few hours, then place in the clear plastic treat bags and secure. The treat bags cast a funky glare when photographed so I did the one above without just so you could see how cute the little planter really is.
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Once the lollipops are painted and wrapped, the fun part really begins. Fit your Styrofoam cone into your container and secure. Then, push the lollipop sticks into the cone to begin creating your arrangement. Vary heights and facing direction of the tulips to make it seem more realistic.Â
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Once the tulips have been arranged, fill in the blank spaces and holes with the craft moss or paper grass. I like the look of the moss the best, it just makes it seem more realistic but it’s really a matter of personal taste. Finish with a personalized tag or card for that special touch.
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These gifts are easy to personalize; consider the recipient's favorite colors and incorporate them either into the colors of the flowers or the pail and embellishments. They would also make amazing centerpieces or favors for your Easter get together! Â
In a world filled with generic gifts, a potted arrangement of hand-painted chocolate tulip lollipops stands out as a truly unique and delightful offering. It not only reflects your appreciation for the hospitality received but also adds a touch of creativity and sweetness to the occasion.
Next time you're invited to a gathering, consider bringing this charming gift – a bouquet that captures the essence of spring and the joy of giving.