Chocolate is one of the most luxurious, indulgent foods in existence. This book explains how the Aztecs introduced the cocoa bean to the European explorers of the sixteenth century, and why we crave chocolate, what it consists of, and its therapeutic qualities. There are over 200 of the most luscious delights imaginable, such as Black Forest Gateau, Mississippi Mud Pie and Chocolate Chestnut Roulade. Step-by-step techniques show how to temper, melt, drizzle, pipe, marble, curl, scroll, coat, grate and decorate with chocolate. There is also a chapter on sauces, frostings and icings. All you ever wanted to know about chocolate is contained within this essential volume.