For those that love making various candies and molding chocolates, using the right mold is important in creating a quality treat!
Most molds are made of either silicone or plastic with various designs and patterns.
Whether you’re a passionate candy enthusiast or an aspiring chocolatier, understanding the nuances of candy mold materials is the key to crafting confections that are appealing in terms of taste, texture, and appearance.
Always check the manufacturer’s note for heat limit; you don’t want to be setting hard candies in a mold that can only handle 200°F.
Polycarbonate Molds (Hard Plastic)
When it comes to crafting candies and chocolates at a professional level, few materials can match the sheer reliability and versatility of polycarbonate molds.
What truly sets them apart is their durability. These molds are built to endure the rigors of continuous use, capable of churning out hundreds or even thousands of candies without showing signs of wear and tear.
This durability ensures that your molds maintain their shape and quality over time, allowing you to consistently produce flawless confections that leave a lasting impression.
Pros
- Durable and rigid
- Hard candy-friendly
- Designed for heavy-duty use
Cons
- Most costly material
- Limited designs on outer surface (typically smooth finish)
Silicone Molds
A few important points about silicone molds, specifically for chocolate:
It holds onto heat longer. This means chocolate will take longer to set and harden. It can be harder to properly temper chocolate especially if it is your first time.
Silicone is more porous than other mold materials. This can result in a dull finish for chocolates once you pull them out.
Pros
- Highly flexible
- Easy to clean (typically dishwasher-safe)
- Easy to pop out candy and chocolate once set
Cons
- Chocolate is dull once sets
- More expensive than clear/white plastic molds
- Holds water spots (harder to dry)
Clear Plastic Molds
These molds offer a budget-friendly solution without compromising on versatility and design possibilities.
Thanks to the economical nature of plastic production, these molds are readily available in a variety of shapes and patterns, allowing you to bring your chocolate visions to life without constraints.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a chocolate-making adventure and want to enjoy the best of both worlds – cost-effectiveness and design versatility – clear plastic molds are the perfect partners in your chocolatier journey.
Pros
- Visibility – can see when hard candy sets
- Easy to remove candies
- Cheapest material
- Versatile designs
Cons
- Not always dishwasher-safe
- Thin material (Tends to split or crack easily)
- Can be harder to clean with intricate designs
Common Candy Mold Questions
How to prevent bubbles in candy setting?
Make sure mold is completely clean and dry before using. Occasionally tap the mold on a solid surface. It is a lot easier to visualize the setting with a clear type of mold.
What to wash candy molds with?
Don’t use anything abrasive.
Chocolate can easily take on the texture of the mold. Scratches will show once the chocolate sets and that is why the best chocolatiers take care of their molds.
Dish soap with handwashing or a soft sponge is enough.
You can also polish it off with a cotton ball and a 90% alcohol solution. Use a Q-tip for small corners and ridges.
