Buying Chocolate: Our Recommended Picks

Looking to buy chocolate, but overwhelmed by the sheer number of options? From supermarkets to speciality shops, the selection is enormous. Whether you're looking for a simple treat with your coffee, a luxury chocolate gift, or a bar with a special story, the choice can be daunting.

This article will guide you. We highlight several popular choices and provide practical tips to help you make a decision that suits your taste and the occasion. No marketing jargon, just clear information.

What to Look for When Ordering Chocolate Online

Before you make a choice, there are a few things to consider. This will help you find the chocolate that's truly right for you.

1. Cacao Percentage and Type: Milk, Dark, or White?

The type of chocolate is the foundation of your choice. The flavour is largely determined by the cacao content.

• Dark chocolate: Contains a high percentage of cacao (often 50% to 90%) and less sugar. This results in an intense, sometimes slightly bitter taste.
• Milk chocolate: In addition to cacao, it also contains milk powder, which gives it a creamier and sweeter flavour. The cacao content is usually between 30% and 40%.
• White chocolate: Contains cocoa butter but no cocoa solids. This gives it its white colour and a very creamy, sweet taste.

Check the packaging for the cacao percentage to get an idea of the intensity.

2. The Occasion: A Treat or a Gift?

What do you want to buy the chocolate for? A simple chocolate bar is perfect for a personal moment of indulgence. If you're looking for a chocolate gift for a birthday or as a thank you, chocolate bonbons or a box of luxury chocolate are often a more suitable choice. The packaging and presentation play a bigger role here.

3. Ingredients and Mission: What's in It and Where Does It Come From?

More and more people want to know what they're eating. Look at the ingredients list for additions like nuts, caramel, or fruit. Some brands, like Tony's Chocolonely, have a clear mission that goes beyond just taste. If you value ethical production, this can be an important factor in your choice.

Popular Chocolate Choices

Based on product specifications and popularity, we've highlighted a few interesting options for you.

Tony's Chocolonely Milk Caramel Sea Salt - 180 g

Why it stands out This bar is a favourite for many, and for good reason. The combination of creamy Belgian milk chocolate, crunchy caramel pieces, and a subtle pinch of sea salt is a proven success. Additionally, the brand is known for its mission: to make 100% slave-free chocolate the norm. According to the brand, the unevenly divided squares symbolise the inequality in the cocoa industry.

Pros

• Classic sweet and salty flavour combination.
• Made with Belgian milk chocolate (at least 32% cacao).
• Clear mission focused on fair trade.
• Generous 180-gram bar.

Who is it for? For the everyday connoisseur who loves a classic, yet not boring, flavour. Also a great choice if you want to consume consciously and support a brand with a story.

BOLCI Angel Hair Milk Chocolate with Cotton Candy & Pistachio - 170 g

Why it stands out This is an example of speciality chocolate that you won't easily find elsewhere. BOLCI combines creamy milk chocolate with a pistachio filling and a unique layer the brand describes as "angel hair," made from delicate cotton candy. This combination provides a surprising texture and flavour.

Pros

• Unique texture from the combination of chocolate, cotton candy, and pistachio.
• Surprising and innovative taste experience.
• Beautiful presentation, making it suitable as an original gift.
• Contains a 34% pistachio filling.

Who is it for? For the adventurous chocolate lover who enjoys discovering new flavours and textures. Also an excellent choice if you're looking for a unique chocolate gift that is sure to impress.

Lindt Lindor Assorted Chocolate Truffles - 200 g

Why it stands outLindt is an established name when it comes to luxury chocolate. The Lindor truffles are known for their hard shell and irresistibly smooth, melting centre. This assorted box offers four different flavours: milk, pistachio, double chocolate, and 70% dark. There's something for everyone.

Pros

• Four different flavours in one package.
• Signature smooth filling that melts in your mouth.
• Stylish packaging, ideal as a gift.
• Variety from milk chocolate to dark chocolate.

Who is it for? Perfect for those who can't decide or are looking for a versatile and stylish chocolate gift. A classic for lovers of chocolate bonbons and a smooth, creamy taste experience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Feeling inspired and want to get hands-on in the kitchen? Sometimes the best chocolate experience is one you create yourself. Check out our selection of Easy and quick chocolate desserts for recipes and ideas to incorporate your favourite chocolate into a delicious dessert.

Frequently Asked Questions about Chocolate

What is the difference between milk chocolate and dark chocolate?

The main difference lies in the ingredients. Dark chocolate contains cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and sugar. Milk chocolate contains the same ingredients, but with the addition of milk powder. This makes milk chocolate creamier and sweeter, while dark chocolate has a more intense and often less sweet cocoa flavour.

What is the best way to store chocolate?

Chocolate is best stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, ideally between 15 and 18 degrees Celsius (59-64°F). Do not store it in the refrigerator, as the moisture and cold can cause a white layer (sugar or fat bloom) to form on the chocolate, which affects its texture and taste. Keep the packaging tightly sealed.

Can I order speciality chocolate online?

Absolutely. Ordering chocolate online often provides access to a much broader and more international range than in a physical store. You can find unique flavours, brands, and types of speciality chocolate that you might not be able to get locally. When ordering, pay attention to the shipping conditions, especially during warm weather.

Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer