You’ve got a box of chocolates, but do you even know what’s inside?
Life holds many mysteries, but the contents of a box of chocolates don’t have to be among them. Chocolate lovers and Valentine’s Day gift recipients can rely on the fact that most assorted chocolate boxes follow a similar structure for practicality.
Our guide details the types of chocolates typically found in assorted boxes, helping you easily identify your favorites with insights from a chocolate expert. Most chocolate boxes feature a variety of shapes, including squares, rectangles, circles, ovals, bumpy pieces, and foil-wrapped treats. Here, we summarize the common choices among chocolate makers.
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Square and Rectangular Chocolates
Square and rectangular chocolates are usually filled with crunchy or chewy toffee or caramel. Square chocolates typically contain soft caramel, whereas rectangular ones have a chewy filling. Fudge pieces may also be square but are generally larger than caramel-filled chocolates.
Toffees and caramels are initially hot and liquid. “They cool on large slabs, then are cut at right angles and dipped in chocolate,” explains Ward, ensuring that no goodness is wasted.
*Tom Ward is the former president and CEO of Russell Stover Candies.
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Circular and Oval Chocolates
Rounded chocolates typically feature soft fillings such as ganache or cream, including varieties like milk or dark chocolate truffles, vanilla, and raspberry cream. In production, these centers are scooped or piped into circular shapes and drizzled with chocolate. Some rounded chocolates are domed and also contain creamy fillings.
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Bumpy Surface Chocolates
If the surface is bumpy, it’s likely a nut candy—lumpy piles of nuts like peanuts, almonds, or cashews coated in chocolate. Examples include pecan delights and nut clusters. Occasionally, nut-filled chocolates are found in paper liners, such as peanut butter cups.These delectable treats can come in various forms and flavors, showcasing a delightful fusion of textures and tastes. Some varieties feature a crunchy outer shell encasing a chewy center, while others may present an exquisite contrast of creamy chocolate enveloping a mix of roasted nuts.
Another popular option is the chocolate-covered nut, where whole nuts are dipped in rich chocolate, creating a simple yet satisfying indulgence. The interplay of the sweet chocolate and the savory, slightly salty nature of the nuts creates a harmonious balance that is hard to resist.
Additionally, there are gourmet versions filled with premium ingredients, perhaps infused with spices or sea salt, elevating the humble nut candy to a new level of sophistication. These artisanal creations might even incorporate dried fruits or honey, adding an unexpected twist to traditional recipes.
Festive occasions often see trays brimming with assorted nut candies, inviting guests to explore a variety of flavors and combinations. No matter the setting, a well-crafted nut candy can transform an ordinary moment into a celebration of delightful sweetness, perfect for sharing or savoring on one’s own.
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Foil-Wrapped Chocolates
A foil wrapper indicates the chocolate likely has a gooey center, such as a cherry cordial, as it helps prevent leaks. Additionally, foil-wrapped chocolates can be solid. Traditionally, chocolatiers used foil to distribute samples to customers.Foil wrappers also serve a practical purpose in preserving the chocolate’s freshness by acting as a barrier against moisture and air, which can compromise the texture and flavor. This added layer of protection ensures that each bite delivers the intended delight, whether that be the rich sweetness of a truffle or the nostalgia of a classic filled chocolate.
Moreover, the shimmering exterior has an aesthetic appeal that enhances the overall visual experience. The gleam of polished foil can make even the simplest chocolate seem luxurious, often elevating it to a coveted gift for special occasions. Gift boxes filled with an assortment of foil-wrapped confections become a delight to unwrap, each piece a small surprise echoing the charisma of its covering.
As chocolate lovers indulge, they might recall the rich history behind this simple yet effective packaging. From the early days of handcrafted chocolates to today’s innovative designs, foil has remained a cherished staple, showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of chocolatiers throughout the ages. Each wrapper, in its delicate crinkle, tells a story of innovation, romance, and sweet indulgence, inviting us to savor both the taste and the tradition held within.
TIP
Beyond their shape, another way to recognize a chocolate’s filling or flavor is by looking at its color. Often, fruit-flavored chocolates will have stripes on the surface in the fruit’s color (or hints of red, pink, and yellow); coconut-filled chocolates could have some white dots on the exterior.
