Haunted Hallways-Take Two

Sooz mad the most adorable Alice

Frankenstorm's making its way to Manhattan, but that didn't stop the 80 Lafayette staff from hosting Haunted Hallways-Take Two. 

Just like last October, period pieces made their way to the 11th Floor.  The Roaring '20s served as our theme.  Duke Ellington blared in the background; paired with "champagne" and bowtie clad chocolate covered strawberries, even Gatsby would be proud of our efforts.  Of course, I donned a frilly flapper costume, while my fellow RA Thomas looked quite dapper in a corduroy blazer. 

FYI, making 200 chocolate covered strawberries is no easy task!  Unless you happen to have a lot of extra time on your hand, I'd leave it to the professionals.  But, if you're felling adventurous, take comfort in the fact that it only requires two ingredients-strawberries and chocolate.

Of course, before you start dipping, it's all about melting your chocolate.  Sure, it sounds simple, but I've found it's very easy to mess up.  Melting chocolate in the microwave is quicker than trying out a double broiler.  Plus, it dirties up less dishes!   

Some strawberries were drizzled with white chocolate
while others dressed for the occasion! 

For starters, I'd suggest filling a deep mug with chocolate chips, instead of using a microwave safe bowl.  Microwave the cup for 30 seconds at a time, stirring in between each interval.  This is important because you'd hate to overheat your chocolate.  When your chocolate's mostly melted, use smaller intervals-15 seconds, 8 seconds, etc.  A few seconds can really make all the difference between melted chocolate and an overheated, lumpy mess.  But, if you do find your coating becoming thick and dry, add 1/2 a stick of butter and a dollop of cream.  To revitalize your chunky chocolate, just stir and microwave.  

And there you have it.  The next time you get a hankering for homemade chocolate covered strawberries, just remember to melt carefully and stir frequently! 

And...just for fun, I had to share these '90s Nickelodeon inspired costumes from the 16th floor.  That's Quail Man on the right, and Jarold from "Hey Arnold!" on the left.  

Gotta love that giant afro Jimmica!