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The Rise of Vegan Chocolate: Exploring Dairy-Free Options

Dark chocolate pieces crushed and cocoa beans. Chocolate background

The shift towards more inclusive and compassionate eating habits has brought vegan and dairy-free chocolates into the spotlight, transforming them from niche to mainstream. Branson’s Chocolates, known for its dedication to creating the most delectable types of chocolate, has embraced this trend, offering a delightful assortment of options for those seeking dairy-free and vegan indulgences!

The Allure of Dairy-Free Chocolate

Dairy-free chocolate broadens the horizon for those with dietary restrictions or allergies, eliminating dairy but still delivering the full chocolate experience. While ‘dairy-free’ doesn’t always mean vegan, many of Branson’s dairy-free chocolates are indeed vegan-friendly, thanks to our preference for high-quality dark chocolate as a base.

Understanding Vegan Chocolate

Vegan chocolate combines the rich flavor of cocoa with plant-based ingredients, ensuring that the final product is enjoyable for everyone, regardless of dietary preferences.

The Cocoa Base

  • The cocoa bean is the foundation of all chocolate, including vegan varieties. These beans are naturally vegan and are the key to the rich, deep flavors we associate with chocolate.

Plant-Based Creaminess

  • Vegan chocolatiers turn to alternatives like almond, oat, and coconut milk to achieve the creamy texture traditionally provided by cow’s milk. Each brings its own subtle flavor, enhancing the chocolate’s overall taste.

Sweetening the Deal

  • Sweeteners in vegan chocolate often include unrefined sugars, maple syrup, or agave nectar, chosen for their plant-based origins and natural processing methods.

The Making Process

Roasting and Grinding: The cocoa beans are roasted to develop their flavor and then ground into a cocoa mass.

Blending: The cocoa mass is blended with cocoa butter and plant-based milk, creating a smooth mixture.

Conching: This step involves heating and mixing the chocolate to refine its flavor and texture.

Tempering: Finally, the chocolate is tempered, giving it a glossy finish and that characteristic snap.

cropped view of chocolatier pouring melted chocolate in chocolate molds

Branson’s Approach

Recognizing that dark chocolate is inherently vegan due to its high cocoa content and absence of dairy, we’ve curated a selection of vegan and dairy-free offerings at Branson’s Chocolates that primarily feature various forms of exquisite dark chocolate.

Why People Choose Vegan Chocolate

The choice to indulge in vegan and dairy-free chocolates goes beyond mere preference; it’s a decision influenced by various health and ethical considerations. At Branson’s Chocolates, we recognize the importance of these factors and strive to create chocolates that delight the taste buds and resonate with our customers’ values and well-being.

Health Benefits

  • Antioxidant Powerhouse: Dark chocolate is central to our vegan offerings and is renowned for its antioxidant properties. These compounds are pivotal in promoting heart health, reducing inflammation, and enhancing cognitive functions.
  • Lower Sugar Content: Our meticulously crafted vegan chocolates aim to reduce sugar content, focusing instead on high-quality cocoa’s natural, rich flavors.
  • Gluten-Free: Many vegan chocolates, including those at Branson’s Chocolates, are often gluten-free, making them a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Ethical Reasons

  • Animal Welfare: Choosing vegan chocolate is a step towards supporting animal welfare, as it eliminates the need for animal-derived products, fostering a more humane approach to indulgence.
  • Environmental Sustainability: The production of vegan chocolate has a lesser environmental impact, primarily due to the more sustainable nature of plant-based agriculture, which typically uses fewer resources and results in lower carbon emissions.
  • Fair and Sustainable Sourcing: At Branson’s Chocolates, we’re dedicated to sourcing our ingredients ethically. This commitment ensures that our cocoa and other ingredients are procured through fair trade practices, supporting environmental sustainability and the communities involved in their production.

Exploring Vegan and Dairy-Free Options at Branson’s Chocolates

At Branson’s Chocolates, we embrace the vegan-friendliness of dark chocolate and offer a wide range of products, from simple dark bars to more complex creations that are infused with natural flavors and ingredients. Our selection of vegan and dairy-free options showcases the versatility and natural richness of semi-sweet dark chocolate, ensuring that everyone can find something they will enjoy.

Blueberry Dark Chocolate Bar
Midnight Chocolate Bar

Here are some standout options from our collection:

  • Blueberry Bar: This bar is a perfect harmony of flavors, featuring soft dried blueberries that beautifully complement the semi-sweet 62% dark chocolate. It’s a testament to how fruit and chocolate can create a sublime taste experience.
  • Hazelnut Clusters: Sourced directly from Oregon growers, the dry-roasted hazelnuts in these clusters add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the semi-sweet 62% dark chocolate.
  • Midnight Bar: Our darkest offering, the Midnight Bar, features solid bittersweet 70% dark chocolate. It’s ideal for those who crave dark chocolate’s deep, intense flavors without any distractions.
  • Coconut Macadamia Nut Bar: This semi-sweet 62% dark chocolate bar has a creamy coconut center mixed with chopped macadamia nuts. Sweetened condensed coconut milk enhances the coconut flavor while keeping the bar dairy-free and vegan.
  • Cherry Cordials: These delightful cordials encase a sweet, tart cherry in a semi-sweet 62% dark chocolate shell. The gooey center, made with cherry liquor and an Amarena cherry, adds a luxurious depth to the chocolate experience.

Each of these options showcases our dedication to quality and inclusivity, ensuring that there’s a delicious vegan and dairy-free chocolate for everyone to enjoy.

Visit us at Branson’s Chocolates online or in-store to explore our full range of dairy-free and vegan options and other various chocolate types, such as ruby chocolate and infused flavors. 

If you have any specific questions about the ingredients we use in our gourmet chocolates, please contact us at [email protected] or call (541)488-7493 to speak with one of our knowledgeable chocolatiers. 

Discover the perfect treat for yourself or a thoughtful gift for a loved one, and join us in celebrating the rich diversity of chocolate—crafted with care and enjoyed by all!

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Flavorful Fusion: Exploring the World of Infused Chocolates

Tequila Sea Salt Caramel chocolates

The culinary community offers great opportunities for innovation and creativity, especially in the vast realm of delectable chocolate types. Infused chocolates are a special kind that combines chocolate’s rich and velvety taste with various unexpected flavors. At Branson’s Chocolates, we are passionate about making delicious varieties of chocolates, and we take this passion to the next level by infusing bold and innovative flavors with traditional craftsmanship.

This blog will take you on a journey behind the scenes of the infused chocolate-making process, showcasing classic and modern infusions that have captivated the palates of chocolate lovers around the world!

The Art of Infusion in Chocolate Making

Infusion is a culinary technique that involves imbuing chocolate with the essences of herbs, spices, fruits, or even flowers, creating layers of flavor that enhance the chocolate experience. The process varies from simple techniques like steeping ingredients in melted chocolate to more complex methods that involve infusing cocoa butter with aromatic compounds. For a more direct and controlled approach, chocolatiers often use culinary-grade essential oils and extracts. These concentrated flavors can be added directly to the chocolate mixture, allowing for precise flavoring.

The magic of infusion lies in its ability to transform the familiar taste of chocolate into something entirely new and exciting without losing the essence of what makes chocolate so universally adored.

Classic Infusions: Time-Honored Favorites

Throughout history, certain flavor combinations have become beloved classics, celebrated for their perfect harmony:

  • Mint Chocolate: The cool, refreshing zing of mint paired with the luxurious depth of dark chocolate creates a timeless blend that refreshes and delights.
  • Orange Chocolate: The bright, tangy burst of citrus from orange peel or essence brings a lightness to chocolate, offering a vibrant contrast that dances on the tongue.
  • Chili Chocolate: The slow, smoldering heat of chili peppers adds an unexpected but welcome warmth to the sweetness of chocolate, resulting in a stimulating flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more!

Emerging Infusions: Bold and Innovative

As the chocolate industry evolves, so do the tastes of its consumers, leading to the rise of new, innovative infusions:

  • Lavender Chocolate: Infusing chocolate with the delicate, floral notes of lavender invites a sense of calm and sophistication, making it a perfect after-dinner treat.
  • Sea Salt Chocolate: The crunch and contrast of sea salt sprinkled over chocolate enhance its inherent flavors, bringing out a surprising and satisfying complexity.
  • Matcha Chocolate: The distinctive, earthy flavor of matcha green tea offers a rich, creamy texture and a burst of antioxidants, marrying health with indulgence in every bite. 
lavender infused chocolates

Cheers to Chocolate: The Process of Alcohol Infusion

Among the myriad infusion techniques, incorporating alcohol into chocolates holds a special allure. Infusing chocolates with spirits, wines, or liqueurs combines the depth and complexity of alcohol with chocolate’s rich, creamy texture, creating an adult indulgence that’s both sophisticated and satisfying. This technique not only imparts the nuanced flavors of the alcohol but also enhances the chocolate’s taste profile, resulting in a harmonious blend that’s more than the sum of its parts.

Indulge in Branson’s Alcohol-Infused Chocolate Creations

Discover the unique and sophisticated range of alcohol-infused chocolates at Branson’s Chocolates, each crafted with premium spirits and the finest chocolate:

Rum Truffles: Infused with Immortal Rum, these truffles boast a rich, creamy center and are adorned with a delicate white chocolate stripe, offering a perfect blend of flavors.

Tequila Sea Salt Caramels: A tantalizing combination of Hornitos gold tequila, lime, and salt dipped in luscious, semi-sweet 62% dark chocolate, creating a unique balance of sweet, salty, and tangy.

Whiskey Caramels: Featuring Pendleton Whiskey, these soft, chewy caramels are enrobed in semi-sweet 62% dark chocolate, providing a sublime taste experience that whiskey lovers will adore.

Amaretto Truffles: Offering a smooth, creamy ganache center, these truffles are crafted with semi-sweet (62% dark) chocolate and Disaronno Originale Amaretto, resulting in a luxurious taste experience.

Infused chocolates offer more than just a treat; they invite you on a journey of flavor exploration, where each bite tells a story of tradition, innovation, and culinary artistry. Whether you’re drawn to the comforting embrace of classic infusions, the delight of discovering bold new combinations, or the thrill of trying alcohol infusions, there’s something to satisfy every curiosity and craving.

rum infused truffles

Branson’s Chocolates: A World of Infused Delights

At Branson’s Chocolates, we take pride in our extensive collection of infused chocolates, each piece a testament to our commitment to quality. Our selection ranges from the comforting and familiar to the exotic and daring, ensuring that there is something for every taste and occasion.

We invite you to explore our unique infusion flavors; whether you’re drawn to the classic allure of mint and orange or the innovative appeal of lavender and matcha, our chocolates promise an experience that transcends the ordinary, each crafted to perfection by our skilled chocolatiers.

Browse our chocolate selection online or visit us in-store to begin your exploration of infused chocolates and discover how the art of infusion can elevate your chocolate experience to new heights!

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The Chocolate World’s Newest Sensation: What Is Ruby Chocolate?

Ruby Chocolate Sliced

In the ever-evolving landscape of the chocolate world, a new variety has emerged, capturing the hearts and palates of chocolate lovers everywhere: ruby chocolate. This recent addition to the types of chocolate has stirred curiosity and excitement among connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike. But what exactly is ruby chocolate, and why has it become such a sensation?

In this blog, we’ll uncover the secrets behind ruby chocolate’s allure and its place in the diverse world of chocolate types, making it a captivating addition to any chocolate lover’s palette!

A Discovery That Changed the Chocolate Scene

In 2017, Barry Callebaut, a well-known Swiss-Belgian cocoa company, introduced ruby chocolate to the world. It was considered the fourth type of chocolate, alongside dark, milk, and white. One of the most noticeable features of ruby chocolate is its natural pink color, which was never seen before in the world of chocolate without the use of color additives.

The Unique Process Behind Ruby Chocolate

The creation of ruby chocolate is as fascinating as the chocolate itself, a process shrouded in a bit of mystery and a lot of innovation. At its core, ruby chocolate is made from the ruby cocoa bean, which is unique due to its natural pigmentation and flavor profile. These special beans are sourced from different parts of the world, including Ecuador, Brazil, and Ivory Coast.

Ruby Chocolate Pieces

Selecting the Right Beans:

The journey of ruby chocolate begins with carefully selecting these cocoa beans. These beans are identified for their potential to develop the characteristic pink hue and fruity flavor that ruby chocolate is known for.

The Fermentation Process:

Once selected, the beans undergo a fermentation process. This is a critical step where the beans develop their initial flavors. The fermentation process for ruby chocolate is tailored to accentuate the beans’ natural fruity notes and color.

Roasting and Processing:

After fermentation, the beans are gently roasted. The roasting process for ruby chocolate differs from traditional chocolate, as it aims to preserve the bean’s natural colors and flavor nuances. The roasted beans are then processed, where they are ground, and the cocoa mass is extracted.

Unlocking the Color and Flavor:

The next stage is where ruby chocolate truly comes to life through a unique method that is a closely guarded secret of the few chocolatiers who produce it. The general process involves using these fruitier, less fermented cocoa beans treated with citric acid. This treatment maintains the beans’ natural pink hue and develops their distinctive fruity flavor. This innovative process sets ruby chocolate apart from traditional chocolate types.

Conching and Tempering:

The chocolate then goes through conching, continuously mixed and aerated to develop its texture and flavor. The final step is tempering, carefully heating, and cooling the chocolate to stabilize it for a perfect finish.

Branson's Ruby Chocolate

Taste Profile: A Symphony of Flavors

Ruby chocolate stands out for its distinctive taste profile. It combines a fruity taste with a creamy texture, providing a sensory experience unlike any other type of chocolate. The fruity notes are natural, not from added fruit extracts or berry flavors. This creates a perfectly balanced symphony of tartness and sweetness, offering a unique taste that cannot be found in other chocolate types.

Ruby Chocolate in Culinary Creations

Ruby chocolate is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various culinary applications. Its unique flavor profile makes it an excellent choice for confectionery, pastries, and desserts. Chefs and chocolatiers have embraced ruby chocolate because of its ability to pair well with a range of ingredients:

  • Fruits: The tart berry flavors of ruby chocolate complement the sweetness of fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and lychees.
  • Cheeses: Pair ruby chocolate with soft, creamy cheeses like Brie or goat cheese for a luxurious taste experience.
  • Nuts: Almonds, pistachios, and hazelnuts enhance the nutty undertones of ruby chocolate.
  • Wines: Choose a sparkling wine or rosé to match ruby chocolate’s light and fruity character.
  • Teas: A floral white tea or a light, fruity black tea can be a great accompaniment.
  • Coffee: A mild, lightly roasted coffee can balance the sweetness and fruitiness of ruby chocolate.
  • Desserts: Use ruby chocolate in desserts like mousses, cheesecakes, or pastries, where its unique flavor can be a standout feature.
  • Bread and Pastries: A simple croissant or a slice of sourdough bread can be a great canvas for ruby chocolate, allowing its flavors to shine.
  • Spices: Experiment with subtle spices like cardamom or cinnamon to add depth to the ruby chocolate’s natural flavors.
  • Sea Salt: A light sprinkle of sea salt can intensify ruby chocolate’s sweet and fruity notes, creating a delightful contrast.

Experience the Ruby Chocolate Sensation at Branson’s Chocolates

At Branson’s Chocolates, we are excited to introduce our customers to the unique and sensational ruby chocolate. While our selection is currently limited, it is nothing short of exceptional. Our offerings include:

  • A delectable ruby chocolate bar, perfect for those who want to savor the pure taste of this new chocolate type.
  • For a twist of nutty flavor, our pistachio ruby chocolate bar combines the fruity notes of ruby chocolate with the rich, crunchy texture of salted pistachios.
  • Our pistachio toffee, hand-dipped in ruby chocolate and garnished with chopped pistachios, is a true delight, offering a perfect blend of creamy ruby chocolate, crunchy toffee, and nutty pistachios.

Each of these products is crafted with the utmost care and quality that Branson’s Chocolates is known for. 

As we expand our ruby chocolate line, these initial offerings provide a tantalizing glimpse into the world of this extraordinary chocolate. Whether you’re a long-time fan of chocolate or just beginning your exploration, our selections will captivate your senses and leave you wanting more!

Shop our gourmet chocolates online or call us at (541)488-7493 for more information on our latest and greatest creations. 

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A Chocolate Lovers Guide to the Most Delectable Types of Chocolate

A table topped with lots of different types of chocolate

There is something enchanting about the diverse world of chocolates, where the humble cocoa bean transforms into an array of exquisite flavors and textures that tantalize the taste buds of connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike. For gourmet chocolate shop owners and lovers, understanding the intricacies of different chocolate types is not just a skill but an art form. It’s about appreciating the subtle nuances that distinguish a velvety milk chocolate from a robust dark chocolate or a creamy white chocolate from the exotic ruby variety. This understanding is the cornerstone of our craft at Branson’s Chocolates in Ashland, OR.

Every chocolate type has its own unique story and special place in the hearts of those who savor it. This guide aims to unfold these stories, bringing to light the rich heritage, the meticulous crafting process, and the myriad of uses that make each type of chocolate unique.

Let’s embark on a sweet journey together, exploring the most delectable types of chocolates and their irresistible allure!

Dark Chocolate

Definition and Basic Information:

Dark chocolate, celebrated for its bold and complex flavor profile, is crafted from a blend of cocoa solids, sugar, and cocoa butter with minimal to no milk content. This chocolate is a favorite among connoisseurs for its rich, deep cocoa taste, which comes from a higher percentage of cocoa solids. The health benefits of dark chocolate, including its antioxidant properties, have also garnered attention, making it a popular choice for those seeking a healthier indulgence.

Flat lay composition with cocoa pods, beans and powder on gray table

Varieties and Cocoa Content:

The origin of its cocoa beans greatly influences dark chocolate’s diverse range, each region imparting unique flavors and characteristics to the chocolate.

Notable regions include:

  • West Africa (Ivory Coast, Ghana): Known for producing cocoa beans that are robust and full-bodied, these regions contribute to chocolates with classic, strong chocolate flavors, often with hints of nuts and earthiness.
  • South America (Ecuador, Venezuela, Brazil): South American beans are prized for their complex flavor profiles, ranging from floral and fruity to spicy and woody. Ecuador, in particular, is renowned for its Arriba cacao, which imparts a distinctive floral aroma.
  • Central America (Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua): These regions produce beans with a more balanced flavor profile, often with a perfect blend of fruity, floral, and earthy notes.
  • Caribbean (Trinidad, Dominican Republic): The Caribbean islands yield cocoa beans that are often described as having a refined, mild flavor with subtle fruity and floral undertones.
  • Southeast Asia (Indonesia, Philippines): Cocoa beans from these regions tend to have a more intense, sometimes slightly acidic flavor, with unique earthy and spicy notes.
  • Madagascar: Known for its fine flavor of cocoa beans, Madagascar produces chocolate with a distinctive fruity and slightly acidic profile, often with notes of citrus and berries.

Each region’s unique climate, soil composition, and cocoa bean varieties contribute to the distinct flavor profiles found in dark chocolates. The cocoa content, which can range from 50% to 90% or higher, also plays a crucial role in determining the intensity and bitterness of the chocolate.

Popular Uses and Pairing Ideas:

Dark chocolate’s versatility makes it a star in sweet and savory dishes. It’s a popular choice for baking, as its rich flavor complements other ingredients without overpowering them—dark chocolate pairs beautifully with bold red wines, aged whiskeys, and even craft beers. Branson’s Chocolates offers an exquisite selection of dark chocolates perfect for these culinary explorations.

Bowl and spoon with tasty melted chocolate on table

Milk Chocolate

Definition and Basic Information:

Milk chocolate, known for its creamy texture and sweet, mellow flavor, is made by adding milk powder or condensed milk to the chocolate mixture. It’s a widely loved variety, popular for its smoothness and balanced sweetness.

Comparison with Other Chocolate Types:

In contrast to dark chocolate, milk chocolate contains a lower percentage of cocoa solids and a higher percentage of sugar and milk. This composition gives it a lighter, creamier texture and a less intense chocolate flavor, making it a favorite among those who prefer a less bitter taste!

Ideal Uses and Recipes:

Milk chocolate’s creamy consistency makes it a versatile ingredient in various desserts. It’s the chocolate of choice for classic treats like chocolate bars, chocolate-covered nuts, and creamy mousses. Milk chocolate also works wonderfully in recipes with a desired subtle flavor, such as chocolate chip cookies or chocolate-covered fruits.

Pieces of white chocolate isolated on dark background

White Chocolate

Unveiling Its Unique Composition:

White chocolate stands out in the chocolate family due to its composition. Made primarily from cocoa butter, sugar, and milk, it lacks the cocoa solids that characterize dark and milk chocolates. Its rich, creamy texture and sweet, buttery flavor make it a unique type of chocolate. 

Misconceptions Clarified:

A common misconception is that white chocolate is not “real” chocolate because it doesn’t contain cocoa solids. However, the presence of cocoa butter, a key component derived from the cocoa bean, qualifies it as a genuine variety of chocolate.

Culinary Applications:

White chocolate’s creamy texture and sweet flavor make it a favorite for dessert creation. It’s particularly well-suited for sweet treats like fudges, ganache’s and as a truffle coating. Its melting properties also make it ideal for chocolate bark and as a drizzle over pastries and cakes.

raspberry truffles

Specialty Chocolates

Ruby Chocolate:

Ruby chocolate was first introduced in 2017 and has since become a favorite among chocolate lovers. This unique chocolate variety is made from specially processed cocoa beans, giving it a natural pink color and a flavor profile reminiscent of berries. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to try something new and exciting in the chocolate world. 

Raw Chocolate:

Raw chocolate is made from minimally processed cocoa beans and often contains no added sugar or dairy. It’s treasured for its high antioxidant content and is considered a healthier alternative to more processed chocolates.

Flavored and Infused Chocolates:

These unique varieties take the chocolate experience to new heights with the addition of exotic spices, herbs, and flavorings. From raspberry-flavored milk chocolate to chili-infused dark chocolate, these varieties offer a unique sensory experience.

Infused chocolates represent a sophisticated and creative aspect of chocolate-making, where the chocolate is imbued with various essences to create a unique flavor experience. Unlike flavored chocolates, where ingredients are mixed in, infusion involves integrating flavors at a molecular level. This can include infusing the cocoa butter with aromatics like orange blossom, lavender, or even smoky elements, resulting in a chocolate that subtly releases these flavors as it melts in the mouth.

Vegan and Dairy-Free Chocolates:

Vegan and dairy-free chocolates cater to those with dietary restrictions or ethical preferences. These chocolates replace dairy with plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut oil, or soy, offering a delicious and inclusive option for all chocolate lovers. Branson’s Chocolates is proud to offer a range of vegan and dairy-free chocolates, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the rich flavors of high-quality chocolate.

As we end our journey through the delicious world of chocolate types, it is clear that each variety holds a special place in the vast realm of culinary delights. From the intense and rich flavor of dark chocolate to the smooth and creamy texture of milk chocolate and the delicate and rich taste of white chocolate, every type offers a unique and delightful experience for our senses.

Exploring specialty chocolates such as the unique ruby chocolate, the minimally processed raw chocolate, the creative flavored and Infused chocolates, and inclusive vegan and dairy-free options highlights the endless creativity and innovation in the world of chocolate-making.

Branson's Chocolates owners

Embracing the Diversity of Chocolate at Branson’s Chocolates

At Branson’s Chocolates, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality and variety, which showcases the art of chocolate craftsmanship. As we conclude this guide, we hope it has enlightened you about the diverse types of chocolates, inspired a deeper appreciation for their intricate flavors and stories, and encouraged you to continue exploring, tasting, and appreciating the wide array of chocolates available!

Whether you’re experimenting with a new recipe, pairing a favorite wine with a piece of dark chocolate, or indulging in the novel experience of infused chocolate, there’s always more to discover in this rich and flavorful world.

Visit us in-store or online today to begin exploring our gourmet chocolate collection, and call (541)488-7493 to learn about our custom chocolate molds and labeling!  

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Cherry Cordials

Locals Guide: February

Cherry Cordials

Our February Product of the Month is Chocolate Cherry Cordials. Imagine a sweet yet slightly tart Amarena cherry, filled with cherry liquor, and then drenched in our rich semi-sweet chocolate.  Perfect for a sweet Valentine’s Day gift, or a delicious treat anytime. Be sure to check out our Chocolate Talk video about Cherry Cordials on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/BransonsChocolatesAshland  to see how we make them.

And our Valentine’s Special is back by popular demand. When you buy our heart-shaped box of delicious Truffles, we throw in a single red rose. So sweet! So romantic! (Limited availability)

This month we are celebrating five years of retail sales, and we would like to say Thank You! We are honored to have so many wonderful wholesale and retail customers. Whether you buy cases of chocolates or a single truffle, we thank you all!

If you are getting Valentine’s chocolate for your special someone, or especially if you are treating yourself, we’ve got your chocolate! Branson’s Chocolates is right here in Ashland at 1662 Siskiyou Boulevard.  We’re just a block south of 7-11, in the Minute Market shopping center. We won’t be out and about in February, so stop by our store and get all your Valentine’s treats. We’re open Monday – Saturday 10-5:30.

You can also find Branson’s Chocolates on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and at bransonschocolates.com for online chocolate shopping.

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Wasabi Ginger

Locals Guide: January

Wasabi Ginger

If you like your dessert a little spicy, or slightly exotic, or even a bit adventurous, we have the chocolate for you—Wasabi Chocolates are the Product of the Month for January. Wasabi Ginger Squares are semi-sweet chocolate ganache squares flavored with wasabi, dipped in milk chocolate, and topped with crystallized ginger. And we have Gourmet Wasabi Ginger Bars for you milk chocolate lovers. Both the squares and bars are on the mild side. But for the daring, we have the semi-sweet AND spicy Gourmet Wasabi Wasabi Bar. Wow! However spicy you like it, Wasabi Chocolate is a gourmet treat for adventurous chocolate lovers.

Branson’s Chocolates, your home for wasabi chocolate, is right here in Ashland at 1662 Siskiyou Boulevard.  We’re just a block south of 7-11, in the Minute Market shopping center. We won’t be out and about in January, so stop by our store and try some Wasabi Chocolate for yourself. We’re open Monday – Saturday 10-5:30.

You can also find Branson’s Chocolates on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and at bransonschocolates.com for online chocolate shopping.

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Peppermint

Locals Guide: December

Peppermint

December is the perfect month for peppermint everything, and at Branson’s Chocolates that means Peppermint Squares, White Chocolate Peppermint Bars, and Gourmet Semi-Sweet Peppermint Bars. Our delicious Peppermint Squares have a layer of rich dark chocolate topped with a layer of smooth white chocolate and crushed peppermint candy. Our scrumptious White Chocolate Peppermint Bars mix peppermint candies and a touch of locally sourced peppermint oil right into the white chocolate. And our Gourmet Semi-Sweet Peppermint Bars have crushed peppermint candies stirred into the rich dark chocolate with even more sprinkled on top. Naughty or nice, you deserve some, so come in and pick up some for yourself.

The holiday season is fast approaching, so now is the perfect time to come in and order chocolate for the holidays. Branson’s Chocolates, your home for peppermint everything (and chocolate too!) is right here in Ashland at 1662 Siskiyou Boulevard.  We’re just a block south of 7-11, next to Abbey Carpet Mart. We will be creating chocolate deliciousness at our shop all month long, so come on in and treat yourself.  Buy chocolate for someone else too and you’re sure to end up on the ‘Nice’ list! We’re open Monday – Saturday 10-5:30.

You can also find Branson’s Chocolates on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and at bransonschocolates.com for online chocolate shopping.

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Fudge

Locals Guide: November

Fudge

November is Fudge Month at Branson’s Chocolates–everything fudge! Fudge is one of our original confections. In fact, the fudge recipes that we use originated in the late 1800s on Mackinac Island in Michigan. We’ve adapted those original recipes to include flavors such as Chocolate Huckleberry, Bailey’s Irish Cream, and Chocolate Cream Cheese. We make ten different flavors of fudge, so we have something for everyone. We know there are a few of you out there who aren’t really chocolate fans, so even though we don’t quite understand how that could be, we have Penuche and Maple Pecan for you guys. Penuche is a brown sugar and vanilla fudge, and Maple Pecan, well, it’s maple and pecans. And trust me, even you chocolate lovers will love them. Stop by to see what is currently in stock.

If you want to catch us out and about in November, here’s where we will be—

  • November 9th & 10th, Friday & Saturday, you can find us at the Holiday Market @the Expo from 10am-6pm.
  • November 10th & 11th, Saturday & Sunday, we will be at the 12th annual Ashland Culinary Festival at the Ashland Hills Hotel & Suites. More information at www.ashlandchamber.com/culinaryfestival .
  • November 17th is Paddington Station’s 45nd Annual Holiday Open House, and we will be there from 11am-2pm selling chocolate.

Branson’s Chocolates is your home for delicious fudge and all chocolate deliciousness, and is right here in Ashland at 1662 Siskiyou Boulevard.  We’re just two blocks south of Omar’s, next to Abbey Carpet Mart. We’re open Monday – Saturday 10-5:30.

You can also find Branson’s Chocolates on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and at bransonschocolates.com for online chocolate shopping.

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Caramel

Locals Guide: October

Caramel

At Branson’s Chocolates, we make our caramel, and everything else, by hand. We use a very old recipe, the highest quality creams and sugars, and cook our caramel in copper pots the old-fashioned way, all to achieve the best blend of sweet and gooey, but not sticky, caramel.

We serve our caramel plain or sea-salted; dipped in milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, or nothing at all, in sticks, bars, and in our almost famous caramel sauces—Gourmet Lavender Caramel Sauce using local lavender from English Lavender Farms, Gourmet Whiskey Caramel Sauce using III Spirits Whiskey, and Gourmet Caramel Sauce for the purists. In other words, there’s a caramel for everyone.

“If you haven’t tried Branson’s Chocolates, you should do so immediately.  I bought some p-nut cups and turtles for my wife… shared them with the family this weekend.  Quote from the mother-in-law: ‘that’s the best caramel I’ve ever had.’”  –Dan McKillop

“I bought two turtles last spring and still drool when I think of how amazing they were – and my friend agreed completely. You have mastered the blend of caramel with amazing flavor and chocolate.”  –Joanne Turner

You can find your caramel deliciousness right here in Ashland at Branson’s Chocolates, at 1662 Siskiyou Boulevard.  We’re just a block south of Omar’s, next to Carpet Mart. We’re open Monday – Saturday 10-5:30.

You can also find Branson’s Chocolates on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and at bransonschocolates.com for online chocolate shopping.

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Huckleberry

Locals Guide: September

Huckleberry

Huckleberries are related to both blueberries and cranberries, taste like a tart blueberry, and are so juicy they have to be processed or eaten right away. Huckleberry season is short, usually only August and September, so Branson’s Chocolates is debuting Huckleberry Truffles and Huckleberry Bars right at the peak of their season. We’re dreaming of Huckleberry Truffles, smooth creamy dark chocolate center with a hint of huckleberry! And the Huckleberry Bars in delicious Milk Chocolate. We take a Huckleberry Fruit Spread made right here is Oregon; cook it down with some milk chocolate to make the gooey Huckleberry center.

‘A love of huckleberries — combined with their scarcity — has created a decades-long effort to produce the berry commercially. A University of Idaho researcher named Dan Barney spent over two decades attempting to create a domesticated huckleberry that would reliably produce delicious fruit at home. He retired without accomplishing his mission. “Domesticating the wild huckleberry is impossible,” says Amit Dhingra, associate professor in the horticulture department at Washington State University. “They have been established in the wild in certain conditions in the forest, and their genetics are suited specifically for that purpose.” Most forests require a permit and limit the amount of berries a person can take home. Some rules also specify that berries be picked by hand.

Throughout history, finding and picking huckleberries has been hard work, yet for people who love them, the effort is worth it. When asked why huckleberries are worth all this trouble, Joe Culbreth laughed. “I don’t know,” he says. “But once you’ve eaten huckleberries, you’re hooked.”’

You can find all this huckleberry deliciousness right here in Ashland at Branson’s Chocolates, at 1662 Siskiyou Boulevard.  We’re just a block south of Omar’s, next to Carpet Mart. Come on down and get your own batch of Huckleberry Truffles and Bars. It’s sure a lot easier than heading out to the forest to forage them for yourself. We’re open Monday – Saturday 10-5:30.

You can also find Branson’s Chocolates on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, and at bransonschocolates.com for online chocolate shopping.

Thanks to https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2017/08/11/542690164/for-the-love-of-huckleberries-august-brings-out-hunters-of-elusive-fruit