Chocolate bars might be the typical draw for people, but they are just one of many types of inventive and scrumptious chocolate-based products. From crunch to creaminess, these unique chocolates can elevate any snack time. Plus, in moderation, chocolate, especially dark chocolate, offers some surprising health benefits, like antioxidants and mood-boosting properties.
So whether you’re putting together a sweet surprise for someone or treating yourself, include a mix of chocolate goodies to make the experience even better.
If the usual chocolate bar doesn’t excite you, you’re in for a real treat. Whether you’re looking for a thoughtful gift or just need a sweet pick-me-up, these options deliver. This blog will walk you through some of the most exciting, mouth-watering chocolates that are just waiting to be tried.
Chocolate-Covered Fruits & Nuts
Chocolate and fruit make a classic pairing. The natural sugar from fruit combined with cocoa has a nice sweetness balance. Chocolate-dipped strawberries and bananas, sure, but so much more.
They also offer dried mangoes, apricots, and blueberries covered in chocolate for a chewy burst of fruitiness in every bite. If you want something crunchy, a combination of chocolate-covered almonds, cashews, and hazelnuts creates a delightful array of textures and flavors.
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Pretzels and Popcorn Covered in Chocolate
The salty-sweet combo is irresistible, which is why chocolate-covered pretzels and popcorn are so popular. Pretzels provide a pleasant crunch that complements smooth, silky chocolate. Some even come topped with crushed cookies, caramel drizzles, or sprinkles.
Chocolate-covered popcorn, however, elevates movie night to a new experience altogether. Popcorn’s light and airy texture and chocolate’s richness create a fun yet flavorful little snack with every bite. Some flavors even stir in nuts, caramel, or sea salt for extra pizzazz.
Chocolate Truffles
Truffles are rich chocolates that are soft and melt in your mouth. They are made from ganache, a blend of chocolate and cream, and sometimes rolled in cocoa powder, nuts, or even shredded coconut. Other truffles have fillings of caramel, fruit puree, or liqueur that offer a surprise flavor inside.
These refined little goodies are perfect for gifting or for when you’re in the mood for something decadent. And with flavors like dark chocolate, white chocolate, and hazelnut, there’s something for everyone.
Chocolate Bark
Chocolate bark is an easy but elegant treat that is often versatile. It’s done by spreading melted chocolate on a flat surface and covering it with all sorts of goodies before allowing it to set. Popular toppings range from nuts, dried fruit, and sea salt to candy pieces.
The beauty of chocolate bark is that you can make it just right for any palate. Whether you prefer crunchy, chewy, or some combination of the two, there’s a kind of chocolate bark out there for you.
Chocolate Fondue
Chocolate fondue makes eating an experience. This is a fun way to enjoy chocolate with family and friends, with a pot of melted chocolate and a selection of dippable treats. Fresh fruits, including strawberries, bananas, and pineapples, are popular items to dip in, but marshmallows, cookies, and even small cakes can also be used.
You can use milk, dark, or white chocolate for fondue, allowing you to mix and match flavors. This is a great idea to unite people for a special event or even for a cozy evening at home.
Marshmallows Covered in Chocolate
Chocolate-covered marshmallows are a soft and fluffy delight within. Some include additional flavors, such as caramel, peanut butter, or peppermint, on the inside. Some are coated in toppings such as crushed graham crackers, sprinkles, or coconut flakes.
These treats are perfect for anyone who loves a mix of textures. The smooth chocolate shell with the airy marshmallow center makes each bite satisfying.
Chocolate-Dipped Cookies
Chocolate and cookies are a match made in heaven. Many classic cookies, like shortbread, biscotti, and sandwich cookies, are even better dipped in chocolate. Some are half-dipped in chocolate, others fully, for a little more sweetness.
For something a bit more special, a few cookies are filled with creamy chocolate fillings or feature other unique flavors like mint, caramel, or coffee. They’re a delightful addition to any snack rotation, well suited for dunking into milk or coffee.
Beverages Infused with Chocolate
Chocolate isn’t for eating only, it’s a delicious way to flavor drinks, too. Hot chocolate is a winter classic, but there are plenty of other tasty options as well. Chocolate milkshakes, iced chocolate drinks, and chocolate coffee drinks provide a comforting character to every sip.
For adventurous flavor profiles, try a Mexican hot chocolate, spiced with cinnamon and a hint of spice. It’s a fun take on the classic drink that somehow adds a little warmth and excitement to it.
Chocolate-Covered Cheesecake Bites
Cheesecake is a rich and creamy dessert, and when you dip it into chocolate, it brings it to the next level. These mouthfuls have a creamy and tangy cheesecake filling, encased in a thick chocolate coating. There can be several flavors of this type, such as raspberry, caramel, or peanut butter.
These chocolate-covered cheesecake bites are great for parties or when you feel like a bite-sized indulgence. They are typically served cold, so they are a nice snack on hot days.
Chocolate-Flavored Cereal Treats
Chocolatey cereal bars and treats are a fun, simple way to make a sweet snack. Some have crispy rice cereal mixed with melted chocolate, while others add marshmallows for a gooey chew.
Chocolate and peanut butter cereal treats are a must for peanut butter lovers. These are so addictive, just the perfect balance of nutty and sweet that kids really like!
Conclusion
Chocolate is more than a single bar, it comes in so many styles that there’s always something new to be found. Anything from crunchy snacks like chocolate-covered pretzels to creamy delights like truffles and fondue! Some unique chocolate treats can be added to your basket, making snacking fun and treating any day as a celebration.
So, the next time you reach for something sweet, get past the bar and taste chocolate in a new way. Whether you’re gifting a loved one, working on a dessert platter, or simply treating yourself, these chocolatey wonders are sure to bring joy with every bite.
FAQs
How should you store chocolate treats?
Store them in a cool, dry location out of direct sunlight. If it’s warm, put them in the fridge, bringing them back out to get to room temperature before eating for the best flavor.
Are chocolate-covered fruits and nuts going to expire?
Yes, but they must be stored in an airtight container to remain fresh. Dried fruit has a longer shelf life than fresh fruit, which should be eaten within a few days.
Is there dairy-free chocolate candy?
Yes! Most dark chocolates are naturally dairy-free, as well as plant-based chocolate alternatives that are made with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
