Aztec and Mayan civilizations created "Xocoatl”. Made from cocoa tree beans, they believed it was the elixir of gods. Conquering Spaniards brought this divine beverage, and chocolate, to the world. Possibly the most coveted confection on Earth, chocolate most certainly topped a godly list. Considered an aphrodisiac and cure for whatever ails you, it’s the birthday, holiday, and centuries-old romance gift of choice. Chocoholics idolize chocolatiers who religiously create chocolate works of art. Practically health food, studies have shown dark chocolates -- 72% cacao plus – may help keep blood pressure down, your blood flowing, and your heart strong.
Eat more chocolate!
Ginger Elizabeth – Hot Chocolate Central
Chocolate devotees sang hallelujah when Ginger Elizabeth’s appeared on the scene. GE shares her passion for chocolate with connoisseurs and neophytes, converting many nonbelievers to chocolate worship. Believers flock to intricately fashioned bon-bons, but with winter closing in Ginger Elizabeth’s Hot Chocolate warms body and soul. Prepared with local organic milk and garnished with fresh whipped cream or house-made marshmallows, your taste buds will be doing the happy dance. A signature blend of semisweet hot chocolate infused with cinnamon, chilies, vanilla bean and ginger, the Oaxacan Spicy Hot Chocolate better than a cozy sweater.
1801 L Street
Sacramento, CA
(916) 706-1738
The Candy Box Little Farmhouse Candies – Are You a Turtle?
In 1867, Daniel Peter invented milk chocolate. Used by chocolatiers worldwide, it’s the essence of The Candy Box chocolates in historic Marysville, truffles, fruit creams, nuts and chews. Other than its location and owners, little has changed since 1954. Good chocolate is always in fashion. Signature Turtles, now called McIntosh Turtles, honor the original owners – Irene and Floyd. These chewy, chocolaty delights are so popular that a single special order numbered 350 one-pound boxes.
415 D Street
Marysville, CA
(530) 742-3124
Kobasic’s Candies – They say Kruffles
No surprise you passed this kitschy industrial building on Riverside Boulevard that houses amazing handmade chocolates. Those in the know are loyal followers, returning again and again for gifts and chocolaty self-indulgence. Small batches, by hand, nothing artificial – truly a labor of love poured into every luscious piece. Kobasic’s fan favorite are Salted Vanilla Caramels which they’ve been crafting since the 1950s. Kruffles, a traditional truffle, are laced with Balsamic Vinegar and local Carvahlo wine. Studies have shown that dark chocolate may keep your heart healthy. Athletes and doctors prescribe Kobasic’s healthy 72% plus dark chocolates. Your heart will thank you.
5324 Riverside Boulevard
Sacramento, CA
(916) 448-3555
Annabelle’s Chocolate Lounge – Chocolates & Wine OMG!
Tucked away in historic El Dorado, handmade chocolates are paired with yummy local wines. Annabelle’s Chocolate Lounge is a bucket list experience and day trip into Gold Rush foothills. House-roasted almonds, slightly salted coat buttery rich English Toffee – one taste explains why it’s #1 with Annabelle disciples. Also much beloved are Jalapeño Almond Clusters, Nutella Bars and Coffee Butter Cream. Cozy corners, tables and tasting bar invite you to linger. New this fall, 100% organic chocolates feature traditional and exotic flavors. Oh, yes, how about some belly dancing with that chocolate and wine? Schedule your next special event in the lounge.
6240 Pleasant Valley Road
El Dorado, CA
(530) 295-9390
Sacramento Sweets – Old Sacramento Sweet Landmark
A second-generation chocolatier, Jason Minow’s DNA is chocolate dipped. An Old Sacramento destination since 1976, Sacramento Sweets handcrafts old-fashioned favorites: chocolates, brittles, taffy, and fudge. However, locals and visitors flock to sweets on a stick including Chocolate Dipped Twinkies, Rice Krispies Treats, Rocky Road, and Caramallows – marshmallows dipped in caramel and chocolate. Other specialties include Chocolate Drizzled Caramel Corn and Maple Bacon Fudge. A family tradition since 1964, Sacramento Sweets has tempted thousands into this chocolate lair.
1035 Front Street
Sacramento, CA
(916) 446-0590
More Chocolaty Delights
Capital Confections – Chocolates and gelato!
Le Grand Confectionary – Classic truffles and glacé fruit.
See’s Candies – California famed since 1921.
Snooks Chocolate Factory – Honeycomb is calling you to Old Folsom.
Comments