Drew Haines

Chocolate stains are the worst. But fret not! In this post, you’ll learn how to get chocolate out of clothes (and sheets, carpet, shoes, polyester…). These 19 tips for removing chocolate stains will have you clean and happy soon.

How to Get Chocolate Out of Clothes (19 Tips: Removing Chocolate Stains)

Hershey. Nestle. Lindt. Ghirardelli. The world is full of chocolate that’s just waiting to be licked from your fingers, but little bits of chocolate often break off or drip onto your clothes.

What will you do after that? How can you get chocolate stains out of your favorite shirts and jackets? What are your options?

Consider this your all-in-one guide to removing chocolate stains from your wardrobe.

How to Get Chocolate Out of Clothes: 5 Steps

While there are endless strategies and remedies for chocolate stain removal, there are a few tips that you’ll see repeated again and again. They’re the building blocks for all of the fancy stain removal tips that come after them.

Here’s a breakdown:

1. Remove the excess chocolate. This might sound obvious, but some people are so afraid of scrubbing a stain further into their fabric that they’ll launder a shirt still dripping with chocolate sauce. Don’t do this. You’ll make the whole thing brown and gross.
2. Soak the garment in cold water. There are several different types of stains, and the proper way to clean them is dependent on their “base.” Since chocolate comes from cocoa plants, it qualifies as a protein-based stain, and the best way to remove proteins is with cold water. Hot water will only set them deeper into the fibers.
3. Use a chemical stain remover. Laundry detergent can be added to your cold water soak, or a stain removal pen can be applied to a specific patch of fabric. They’ll both break down the enzymes that are causing your stain.
4. Gently scrub the stain with your chemical agent. You can use rags, cloths, brushes, and sponges. The most important thing is that all of your clothing fibers get exposed to the cleaning agent, so use whatever tool is best for the task. But remember to be gentle so you don’t damage the fibers.
5. Toss the garment into the washing machine. Make sure that it runs on a cold cycle rather than a warm one.

Removing Chocolate Stains: 19 Tips, Tricks, and Techniques

Let’s say that you have persistent chocolate problems. Run-of-the-mill advice isn’t going to cut it. For special situations, here’s how to get chocolate out of clothes.

1. How do you get out set in chocolate stains?

Set-in chocolate stains can be some of the most difficult to remove. You’ll need to be very careful not to damage your clothing as you work on the stain.

The first step is to peel away any dried chocolate that’s clinging to the fabric. If the fibers start coming away with the chocolate chunks, stop what you’re doing immediately! Dried chocolate can become a glue-like substance that will rip a hole in your clothes if you tug too hard. Just remove as much chocolate as you can.

The next step is to soak the garment in cold water. Since it’s a dry, stubborn stain, you should probably give it a good 30 – 60 minutes under the surface. You can also add laundry detergent or other anti-stain cleaning products to the soaking mixture.

The last step is to launder the garment as usual (but remember to use a cold water wash). This will be the final test to determine if your stain has come out. If it hasn’t, repeat the first few steps again.

2. How do you get chocolate ice cream stains out of clothes?

Chocolate ice cream is the ultimate protein-based stain. These stains are caused by plant and animal compounds as opposed to synthetic ones, and chocolate ice cream ticks off just about every box. Not only do the fudge swirls come from cocoa beans, but the dairy base is provided by cows, and the vanilla extract originates with plants.

Long story short, it’s the perfect storm of stains, so you might need to soak your garment more than once. A single trip into cold water might not do it.

Do not use hot water on a protein-based stain. Heat can make it set into the fabric for good. Don’t soak or wash your fabrics in hot water, and don’t use the dryer until you’re absolutely positive that the stain is gone.

3. Will Tide to Go Remove chocolate?

Yes. Tide To Go is a stain-removing pen that contains everything from hydrogen peroxide to alkyl dimethyl amine oxide, so it’s excellent at pulling out oils and minuscule food chunks from the fibers of clothing.

In fact, the product page for Tide to Go names “chocolate syrup” on a lengthy list of condiments that the pen can break down. They recommend wiping off the excess chocolate first, but you’ve already learned that tip, so you’re good to go.

4. What’s the best laundry detergent(s) to remove chocolate?

1. Tide Plus Febreze Sport Laundry Detergent. In a test of dozens of laundry detergents, the Tide Plus Febreze Sport was specifically highlighted as the best product for chocolate stains. It was said to remove these sweet smudges better than every other detergent.
2. Purex Coldwater Laundry Detergent. This liquid laundry detergent was designed for use in cold water. Its cleansing enzymes are the most effective at temperatures under 60°F. Since protein-based stains like chocolate respond best to cold water, the Purex Coldwater is an excellent detergent to fight back against them.
3. Tide Liquid Coldwater Laundry Detergent. This is another cold water product, and it comes stuffed with enzymes that will react to the coolness of the laundry load. Whether you’re looking for amylase, protease, mannanase or pectinase, the Tide Liquid Coldwater can provide it.
4. OxiClean Versatile Stain Remover. As its name suggests, the OxiClean “Versatile” Stain Remover can be used on everything from clothes to carpets. It’s also great for chocolate stains. For the best results, OxiClean recommends soaking your clothes in a water and detergent mixture for 1 – 6 hours before washing.

5. How do you get chocolate out of clothes at work?

If you drop your chocolate doughnut on your blouse, you might be tempted to rush into the bathroom and scrub it with hot water and paper towels.

However, both of these actions will only make it worse. The hot water will encourage the discoloration to sink into your fabric, and the shallow scrubbing will just spread the stain around the fibers.

Your best bet for removing chocolate stains at work is to rinse the dark patch with cold water.

You don’t have to soak your entire blouse in the sink, but you should remove the shirt and run the stained portion under the faucet to make sure that you’re thoroughly rinsing it.

When you’re done, don’t use any kind of blow dryer or hand dryer on it. Heat is the enemy. It might feel uncomfortable to wear a damp shirt at your desk, but air drying is the way to go.

6. Will baking soda remove chocolate stains?

Baking soda is often touted as a home remedy for chocolate stains. Not only can it remove dark spots on your clothes, but it can also eliminate odors, brighten colors and give your laundry a newer, fresher feeling.

Just mix it with a little water or vinegar to create a paste that can be applied to the stain.

The only downside to baking soda is that it might not be strong enough for serious discoloration. It can take care of a chocolate smudge on your elbow, but if you sat down on a triple fudge ice cream cake, baking soda isn’t going to cut it.

7. What other household products will remove chocolate stains?

If you’re looking for home remedies for chocolate stains, consider the following:

• Vinegar. Vinegar is often paired with baking soda to create a fizzy mixture that can eat away stains.
• Lemon juice. The citric acid in lemon juice can break down fiber stains, and it’s safe to use with both whites and colors. Just toss a cup of lemon juice into your washing machine before you hit “start.”
• Toothpaste. Believe it or not, but a dollop of toothpaste can be used as a stain remover. You won’t want to cover your entire coat with Crest, but if you’ve just dripped a little chocolate sauce on your outfit, toothpaste can dry it and lift it out.
• Bleach or ammonia. You’ll want to be extremely careful with these materials since they can become toxic in excessive quantities. If you need to get a dark chocolate stain out of a white dress, however, a hardcore bleach or ammonia rinse might be your only option.

8. Can you harden chocolate to make it easier to remove from clothing?

Yes. If you have a drippy, chocolaty mess on your clothes, it can help to put them in a clean plastic bag and freeze them for 10 – 20 minutes. The chocolate will harden and allow you to peel or chisel it off. You can even use the edge of a spoon as a precision instrument to get everything off.

To be clear, this is another home remedy rather than a professional treatment. You won’t find expert dry cleaners using cutlery to clean their clothing.

If you’re in a bind, however, a quick freeze and a steady spoon can get the job done. Just be careful to keep a close eye on the clothing fibers, they could get damaged so be gentle.

9. How do you get hot chocolate out of clothes?

Liquid stains can be even trickier than dry stains since you’re racing against the clock as soon as you spill. Here are some lightning-fast tips that you can try:

• Apply cold water as soon as possible. Soaking the garment would be best; even if you can only spare 5 – 10 minutes, a thorough soak is better than a quick rinse. You can also add a touch of stain remover to the mix.
• If rinsing is the only option available to you, rinse the back of the stained area. For example, turn your pants inside out before you stick them under the faucet. Instead of making the stain more prominent on the visible part of your clothes, you’ll flush it out from a less noticeable place.
• Toss the garment into the washing machine. Make sure that your settings are on cold rather than warm or hot.

10. Can dry cleaning remove chocolate stains?

It depends on the dry cleaners. They tend to use stronger chemicals than the kind that you can find at the grocery store, and this could be good or bad for you.

A lot will depend on the material type of your clothes and the severity of the chocolate stains on them. Go ahead and call your local dry cleaning company and ask.

11. What is a biological laundry detergent?

Biological laundry detergent is one that contains cleaning enzymes.

While not truly alive, these enzymes are produced by proteins that will eat away at greases, starches, and fats, so they’ve become popular additions to laundry detergents. They can combat stains by breaking them down on a molecular level.

They work well at removing chocolate stains but can be a little harsh on sensitive skin so keep that in mind when you’re considering using one.

12. What is biological powder?

A biological powder is simply the powder version of biological laundry detergent. These detergents can come in both liquid and powder form.

13. How do you get chocolate milk out of clothes?

Chocolate milk is tough to remove from clothes since it delivers a one-two punch of both sight and smell. Even if you manage to get the stain out, you don’t want to smell like a dairy product all day!

Fortunately, there are ways to remove chocolate milk stains from your clothes. Your best chance of success is to soak the garment in cold water with a swirl of stain-fighting laundry detergent, but you can also apply a stain stick and let it sit for a while. You might even try a home remedy of baking soda; it’s said to be quite effective at neutralizing dairy products.

If you’ve chosen the right tools for the job, they should break down all of the enzymes that are causing ugly stains and sour smells on your clothes. If the chocolate milk is still there after treatment, however, consider repeating all of the above steps. It might take several attempts before progress is made.

14. How do you get chocolate out of polyester?

Since it’s made with synthetic fibers, it can be a real hassle to get chocolate stains out of polyester. You might need a lot of patience as you try different tips and sanitizing strategies.

If you’re willing to take the time, however, here’s a checklist that you can use:

1. Remove the excess chocolate from the polyester fabric.
2. Apply a pre-wash stain remover. Let it sit or soak for 10 minutes before rinsing out your garment and seeing if the stain is any lighter. If it needs another application of stain remover, do it.
3. Launder your outfit like you normally would, but use cold water instead of hot.
4. Check the stain. If necessary, repeat the process.

15. How do you get chocolate out of felt?

Many tips for removing chocolate stains are centered around the idea that you’re going to put your clothes into the washing machine eventually.

But what if you had an unfortunate accident with felt? Can you wash it? Should you wash it?

The first thing to know is that it’s okay to put felt in the washing machine as long as you’re extremely careful with it. Use a gentle cycle, and make sure that the water is a non-shrinking, non-staining cold. If you can control the amount of water that fills your machine, keep it at a low level.

If you’re unable or unwilling to use the washing machine for your felt, you’ll need a stain stick. Apply it to the discoloration and let it dry. You might have to repeat this process several times before it makes a visible impact on the stain.

16. How do you get chocolate out of sheets?

Maybe the kids were hoarding cookies. Maybe you binged on too many snacks while you were watching Netflix. If you have chocolate on your sheets, you’ll need to ask yourself a few questions before you wash them:

• What kind of material are they made from? Silk sheets will require gentle blotting with a non-toxic stain remover; regular cotton sheets can be thrown into a cold water wash in the washing machine with a splash of lemon juice.
• How large is the stain? Can it be treated with a stain stick, or will you require a heavy-duty, high-efficiency laundry detergent?
• What’s the thread count? If you’ve splurged on expensive sheets, you’ll want to test all of your stain remover tools on a discreet corner of the fabric before you soak the whole bedspread in your cleaning solution.

17. How do you get cocoa butter out of clothes?

Let me give you a quick refresher on stain categories:

• Protein-based stains come from plant and animal compounds. This includes blood, sweat, eggs, plant extracts, dairy products and anything else that originates from a living organism.
• Oil-based stains come from heavy and oily products. This includes grease, butter, lotion, hair products, automotive oil and anything else with a starchy kind of base.

Cocoa butter straddles the line between these two categories. Since it’s derived from cocoa beans, it has proteins that respond well to biological laundry detergents with special cleaning enzymes. On the flip side, however, it’s usually sold as lotions and ointments, so it also contains high levels of oil.

Getting rid of a cocoa butter stain will take trial and error. Depending on the exact ingredient list of your product, it might respond better to certain detergents or stain sticks. Don’t be disheartened if it takes a while to fix that cocoa butter splotch.

18. How do you get chocolate out of white shoes?

If you’ve dropped or stepped in chocolate, you might need an emergency clean-up job for your favorite white shoes. There are two ways that you can approach it:

• If it’s a small stain, try rubbing it with cold soapy water and a sponge. You’ll be able to tell right away if the chocolate is coming off or if you’re just spreading it around.
• If it’s a large stain, you might need to bust out the bleach. Mix 1/4th of a cup of bleach with 3/4ths of a cup of cold water. Use a bristled brush to apply it to the stain. A scrub brush is best, but you can also make do with a toothbrush in a pinch.

19. How do you get dried chocolate out of carpet?

The bad news is that dried chocolate can really sink into the fibers of a carpet, especially if people have been walking on it. The good news is that a nylon carpet isn’t nearly as delicate as a silk shawl, so you can use heavy-duty stain removers to attack it with abandon.

The trick to cleaning chocolate out of a carpet is to do everything in stages. Don’t expect the chocolate flecks to disappear after 30 seconds of scrubbing.

Instead, treat your carpet with a combination of cold water and stain remover. Let it sit for a few minutes, and scrub it down with a cloth or brush using circular motions. Let it sit for another few minutes. Assuming that the stain isn’t gone, apply more stain remover and start the process all over again.

Getting chocolate out of your carpet will definitely require patience, but as long as you’re smart about it, you can make it happen.

Fighting Chocolate Stains: One Bar at a Time

Life is messy. Chocolate is even messier. The good news is that you don’t have to let worries about your wardrobe stop you from enjoying your favorite treat. Use these cleaning tips for no-fuss, no-mess chocolate indulgences!

In this post, you’ll learn about the best chocolate covered espresso beans. Including caffeine levels, how long they last, energy boost, and our picks for top brands.

Chocoholics Guide to Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans

Maybe you like the richness of chocolate candy. Maybe you’re in it for the jolt of caffeine that you can get without waiting in line at Starbucks.

Whatever your reasons for seeking chocolate covered espresso beans, there are a few things that you should know before you order a gigantic tub of these sweet treats. Let’s dive into the world of coffee and talk about what makes it great.

What makes espresso beans different from regular beans?

Fundamentally, there’s no difference between coffee beans and espresso beans. They’re both harvested from the same plants. There’s no such thing as an “espresso tree” where espresso beans are grown separately from coffee beans.

There can be differences in how they’re roasted, however, and this can impact everything from their taste to their shelf life.

Here’s the rundown:

• Since espresso beans are valued for their strong flavor, they’re usually roasted for longer periods of time.
• A longer roast makes them larger and darker than other coffee beans. Their water evaporates, and their fibers expand.
• Regular coffee beans can run the gamut between light, medium, medium-dark and dark, but since espresso beans are roasted more, they’re always medium-dark or dark.

To put it another way, coffee beans and espresso beans are plucked from the same trees, but they undergo different roasting processes that make espresso beans darker, larger and stronger.

Why are espresso beans larger than regular beans?

The roasting process causes the water to evaporate from the beans. As the beans dry, the fibers expand, causing them to expand. The darker the roast, the larger the beans will be. Because espresso beans are often dark roast, they are larger than the same beans roasted less time.

Do chocolate covered espresso beans give you energy?

Yes. Not only will the sugar content of the chocolate spike your glucose levels, but you’ll also consume more caffeine by eating whole espresso beans rather than distilling them into a beverage.

The average cup of coffee contains 95 milligrams of caffeine, but the average serving of chocolate-covered espresso beans has 150 – 175 milligrams.

How much caffeine do espresso beans have?

How did we arrive at 150 – 175 milligrams? Let’s do the math.

The average espresso bean has 6 – 7 milligrams of caffeine. This might not seem like a lot, but you never eat just one bean! Most people have a handful at a time, and that puts the total bean count at 25 or so.

So 25 beans with 7 mg of caffeine each equal 175 mg per serving. 

After plugging the numbers into a calculator, you’ll get a figure of 150 – 175 milligrams of caffeine for a single serving of espresso beans. If you eat more than one serving, you’ll get an even bigger rush.

How much caffeine is in a chocolate covered espresso bean?

The caffeine content of chocolate-covered espresso beans is pretty much the same as plain espresso beans.

There might be a few milligrams more, but chocolate doesn’t have that much caffeine; it would take around four candy bars to give you the same buzz as a cup of coffee. It’s the sugar more than the caffeine that makes chocolate-covered espresso beans so addictive.

Are chocolate covered coffee beans good for you?

There are some surprising health benefits to chocolate-covered coffee beans. They won’t replace an apple per day, but they aren’t complete junk food!

For example, coffee and chocolate both contain a number of antioxidants. Coffee boasts oxazoles and phenols; chocolate will give you flavanoids. These antioxidants can help with everything from circulation issues to blood pressure regulation.

Dark chocolate can help your heart. Coffee can reduce your risk for heart disease, prostate cancer and cirrhosis of the liver.

It doesn’t even matter how your snack is delivered. You can sip a latte; you can munch on coffee beans by the handful. You can eat or drink your chocolate. The health benefits remain the same.

How long do chocolate covered espresso beans last?

The longevity of your coffee beans will depend on several different factors, including their original roast date and how tightly that they’ve been sealed to protect them from oxidation.

You might have anywhere from weeks to months before they start to go bad. A tell-tale sign that they’re getting stale is when the chocolate starts going white.

11 Best Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans (Our Favorites)

Now that you’ve learned a little about chocolate covered espresso beans, it’s time to consider specific products.

Which ones will hit the spot when you’re craving some chocolate? Which ones will give you a boost of energy before a long day at work? Here are just a few of the best.

1. Hoosier Hill Farm (Gourmet Dark)

Gourmet Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans: You might recognize Hoosier Hill Farm as a brand that makes all kinds of candy and confections. They’ve recently expanded their horizons to chocolate-covered espresso beans, and the world is better for it.

Between the richness of their chocolate and the crunchiness of their whole espresso beans, the Hoosier Hill Farm Gourmet Beans are the kind of treat that you won’t be able to stop eating. Fortunately, it’s a two-pound package, so you won’t be running out anytime soon.

Do you like sweet and sugary flavors? Do you enjoy a little caffeine buzz with your snacks? Consider the Hoosier Hill Farm Gourmet Beans for your next chocolate experience.

• Feature: Gourmet dark chocolate
• Units: 32 ounces (22 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 20 pieces
• Calories: 170 calories
• Fat: 9 grams
• Sodium: None
• Carbs: 22 grams (2 grams of fiber, 22 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 1 gram

2. Trader Joe’s (Dark Chocolate)

Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans: Trader Joe’s is known for their organic products, and while their Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans don’t quite meet that USDA standard, they’re still a step above the rest in terms of natural ingredients.

With no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives, these chocolate snacks will give you energy without any chemical assistance.

Another great thing about Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans is that they’re made with 100% arabica beans. From the gourmet chocolate dipping to the very heart of the espresso bean, they’re made with an eye towards quality.

Additionally, these beans are packed with vitamins and minerals. They’ll offer part of your recommended daily values of iron, fiber, protein, and calcium all at once!

Who says that chocolate snacks can’t be good for you? Let Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans prove otherwise.

• Feature: No artificial colors, chemicals, flavors or preservatives
• Units: 14 ounces (10 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 1/4th cup
• Calories: 170 calories
• Fat: 8 grams
• Sodium: 10 milligrams
• Carbs: 21 grams (2 grams of fiber, 12 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 3 grams

3. SweetGourmet (Chocolate Variety Pack)

Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans Blend: If you can’t decide between white, dark and milk chocolate, order the SweetGourmet Espresso Beans Blend and enjoy them all mixed together in a flavorful variety pack. Each piece is made with a full coffee bean that will provide texture and crunch under a smooth, rich layer of chocolate.

They don’t skimp on the chocolate coating, either. These are robust little candies that will definitely satisfy your craving for sweetness and sugar. They’ll also give you a nice jolt of energy: Each serving will deliver around 270 milligrams of caffeine.

There are many reasons why you might be interested in a variety pack. Maybe you’ve never had chocolate-covered espresso beans before, and you’d like to try different flavors to see which ones are your favorite. Maybe you already have favorites, but you don’t like choosing between them.

The SweetGourmet Espresso Beans Blend will solve your conundrum. With three kinds of chocolate in every one-pound bag, you can root around for different chocolate flavors like trail mix!

• Feature: Variety pack, kosher, gourmet
• Units: 16 ounces (11 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: White, dark and milk chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 31 pieces
• Calories: 200 calories
• Fat: 12 grams
• Sodium: 25 milligrams
• Carbs: 25 grams (3 grams of fiber, 20 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams

4. First Choice Candy (Dark Chocolate)

Dark Chocolate Covered Espresso Coffee Beans: Convenience is the name of the game with the First Choice Candy Espresso Beans. Not only do they arrive in a resealable pouch to prevent your beans from going stale, but if you’re ordering them in the summertime, they’ll be packed with ice to prevent them from melting in the heat. They don’t mess around when it comes to the quality of their shipments.

The packaging isn’t the only nice thing about this product, however. The First Choice Candy Espresso Beans are unique in the sense that they don’t use a full espresso bean for every morsel; there’s only a small piece of bean tucked inside a thick circle of dark chocolate.

If you like a lot of crunch in your espresso snacks, these aren’t the ones for you. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a caffeinated treat that won’t overwhelm you with the strong, bitter taste of java, the First Choice Candy Espresso Beans could be exactly what you desire.

• Feature: Gourmet chocolate, resealable pouch, ice-wrapped packing
• Units: 32 ounces (22 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 40 grams
• Calories: 210 calories
• Fat: 12 grams
• Sodium: None
• Carbs: 23 grams (2 grams of fiber, 17 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 3 grams

5. Dilettante Chocolate Espresso Bean Blend

The Dilettante Chocolate Espresso Bean Blend is another variety pack that doesn’t force you to choose between white, dark and milk chocolate.

Every single morsel comes double-coated with the good stuff, and the company even uses a revolving kettle to make sure that the chocolate is evenly distributed over the surface of the bean.

The best thing about the Dilettante Chocolate Espresso Bean Blend, however, is that it comes in a whopping three-pound jar. It’s easily sealed and transported so that that you can share your beans at any kind of social occasion.

Take them to work to treat your colleagues; arrange them in a treat dish at your next party; stuff them in clear bags as wedding or baby shower favors. The possibilities are endless.

If you’re a hesitant or first-time buyer, you might not want to jump into the deep end with this huge assortment of chocolate-covered espresso beans. But if you’re a chocoholic who knows what they want, these beans will give it to you!

• Feature: Variety pack, double-coated, in-house coffee beans
• Units: 48 ounces (34 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: White, dark and milk chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 13 pieces
• Calories: 200 calories
• Fat: 12 grams
• Sodium: 15 milligrams
• Carbs: 23 grams (1 gram of fiber, 2 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams

6. Madelaine Chocolate Company (Premium Dark Chocolate)

Premium Dark Chocolate-Covered Espresso Coffee Beans: As you might expect from a company with “chocolate” right in its name, the Madelaine Chocolate Company Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans are a fantastic snack.

They’re made with a silky, velvety coating of gourmet dark chocolate that’s 72 percent cacao and 100 percent deliciousness. They’ll melt in your mouth like butter, but they’ll still have the slight bitterness of pure dark chocolate.

If you like to nibble, the Madelaine Chocolate Company Beans will satisfy that urge as well. They use whole espresso beans for every piece, so you’ll get to bite through the chocolate layer and enjoy an even bigger bite underneath.

The only downside of this product is that its caffeine content could be higher. However, that’s a small price to pay for such a solid snack. If you’re looking for gourmet chocolate, you could do a lot worse than these espresso beans from the Madelaine Chocolate Company.

• Feature: Gourmet, kosher
• Units: 16 ounces (16 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 28 pieces
• Calories: 100 calories
• Fat: 8 grams
• Sodium: 15 milligrams
• Carbs: 18 grams (6 grams of fiber, 10 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams

7. Hoosier Hill Farm (Gourmet Milk)

Gourmet Milk Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans: We’ve already covered the dark chocolate espresso beans from Hoosier Hill Farm, but their milk chocolate variety is also worth a look.

They offer the same great quality as their dark-roasted and dark-colored cousins, but they’re lighter, sweeter, and more palatable for people who might not like coffee.

For example, if you get the jitters from big cappuccino drinks, these chocolate-covered espresso beans could be a nice alternative. If you want to create a treat dish that doesn’t exclude people who are trying to cut back on their java, this could be the solution.

Espresso snacks don’t have to be tart. If you choose something like the milk chocolate Hoosier Hill Farm Beans, you can enjoy sweetness without bitterness.

• Feature: Gourmet milk chocolate
• Units: 32 ounces (22 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Milk chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 20 pieces
• Calories: 170 calories
• Fat: 9 grams
• Sodium: None
• Carbs: 25 grams (2 grams of fiber, 22 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 1 gram

8. Yankee Traders Brand (Triple Shot)

Triple Shot Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans: These “triple shot” espresso beans come in three flavors: white chocolate, dark chocolate, and coffee cream.

Not only will their flavors blend together in decadent chocolatey bliss, but they’ll also look great in a jar or party favor bag. They’re small, speckled little morsels that will delight the eye as well as the palette.

There’s plenty to go around if you want to share with friends. Shipped in a resealable two-pound bag, you won’t need to replace your Yankee Traders Triple Shots in a while. Each serving is a hefty 31 pieces, so even if you have the self-control not to eat the entire bag at once, you’ll still enjoy a satisfying snack.

The caffeine content is excellent as well. This is especially true if you munch on the espresso beans covered in coffee cream. Who knew that getting a java jolt could be as easy as tossing some bite-sized snacks into the air and catching them with your mouth?

• Feature: Arabica beans, variety pack, gourmet chocolate
• Units: 36 ounces (22 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: White chocolate, dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 31 pieces
• Calories: 200 calories
• Fat: 12 grams
• Sodium: 25 milligrams
• Carbs: 25 grams (3 grams of fiber, 22 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams

9. WinCrest BulkFoods (Dark Chocolate)

Dark Chocolate Espresso Beans: This tub will make a resounding thud when you put it on your kitchen counter. It tips the scale at 1.5 pounds, and it’s stuffed to the brim with fat and tasty chocolate chunks. The WinCrest BulkFoods Chocolate Espresso Beans will definitely make you feel like you’re getting your money’s worth.

Once you crack the seal, however, you might be surprised to find that these are light and delicious chocolate-covered coffee beans. Their crunch won’t rattle your teeth, and their caffeine won’t wallop you over the head. They’ll gently lift your energy levels until you’re ready to face the day with a renewed sense of purpose.

The WinCrest BulkFoods Chocolate Espresso Beans even come in a sugar-free variety if you’re watching your caloric intake. They’re designed to make your life easier and tastier in every way!

• Feature: Gourmet dark chocolate
• Units: 24 ounces (17 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No, but sugar-free beans are available

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 40 grams
• Calories: 200 calories
• Fat: 12 grams
• Sodium: 35 grams
• Carbs: 22 grams (2 grams of fiber, 18 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams

10. It’s Delish Gourmet Chocolate Espresso Beans

Offering five pounds of pure chocolate madness, It’s Delish Gourmet Chocolate Espresso Beans will keep you caffeinated for weeks to come.

They’re made with dairy-free dark chocolate that won’t aggravate any of your allergies. They boast whole coffee beans in every bite for a full, satisfying crunch. They even come sweetened with sugar and vanilla extract to mask the bitter taste of the espresso.

You probably won’t be able to finish It’s Delish Gourmet Chocolate Espresso Beans by yourself, but the good news is that they’re easily transportable for work, school, home, and travel. You can take your favorite treats everywhere so that you’re never without a caffeine fix.

• Feature: Gourmet, kosher, dairy-free
• Units: 80 ounces
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 1.2 ounces
• Calories: 200 calories
• Fat: 12 grams
• Sodium: None
• Carbs: 25 grams (2 grams of fiber, 20 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams

11. Island Princess (Hawaiian Style)

Chocolate Covered Hawaiian Style Coffee Beans: Hawaii is known for brewing a great cup of joe, and it all starts with their coffee beans. Their shade and soil conditions are perfect for growing coffee tree seedlings; their climate is excellent for nurturing the plants to full health.

As you might expect from a coastal product, the Island Princess Hawaiian Coffee Beans take full advantage of their location. Not only do they have great raw materials, but they bring them together in a way that creates a delicious snack.

There’s an amazing harmony between chocolate and coffee bean: Neither of them overshadows the other. You’ll enjoy a creamy blast from the chocolate at the same time that you get a buzz from the caffeine of the coffee bean.

If you ask us, however, the very best thing about the Island Princess Hawaiian Coffee Beans is that they come in a 10-ounce bag. It’s the perfect size to get you through the day. It’s also small enough to hide when you don’t feel like sharing!

• Feature: Gourmet chocolate
• Units: 10 ounces (10 servings in total)
• Price: Check current price.
• Type of chocolate: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Serving size: 1 ounce
• Calories: 133 calories
• Fat: 8 grams
• Sodium: None
• Carbs: 16 grams (1 gram of fiber, 12 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 1 gram

The Bottom Line

Coffee and chocolate are two of the greatest pleasures known to man, so it should come as no surprise that putting them together is a stroke of genius.

Whether you’re a fan of cocoa, coffee, caffeine or all of the above, let these chocolate-covered espresso beans become your new favorite treat!

Does chocolate go bad? The short answer is yes, it can go bad. But how can you tell, and what can cause it go bad or stale? Not to worry, by the end of this post you’ll know everything you need to know about how long chocolate lasts.

Does Chocolate Go Bad? How Long Does It Last?

One good thing about chocolate (on top of how amazing it tastes) is that it doesn’t go bad quickly. Especially if it’s pure dark chocolate (bakers chocolate/chocolate liquor).

But there are some things you need to look out for to make sure you’re getting the best out of your chocolate and cocoa powder. Let’s take a good look at the shelf life of chocolate and see how you can tell when it has gone bad.

2 Ways Chocolate Can Go Bad

Chocolate going bad can mean different things to different people. One person might be talking about it going stale (losing aroma and flavor), another might be talking about it spoiling.

Let’s begin with chocolate spoiling.

How can you tell if chocolate has gone bad?

If your chocolate has spoiled it may be easy to tell. For example, if you can see signs of mold and if it smells terrible.

You might also see that the chocolate has been contaminated in another way, perhaps by a rodent (or bugs) getting into it.

In either case, it’s best to discard the entire bar or bag because it could make you ill.

Sometimes it can be a little harder to tell if chocolate has gone bad.

Chocolate is generally safe when it’s dry but if it has melted (or been otherwise exposed to moisture) it could be subject to the growth of bacteria.

• Melted and Rehardened Chocolate: So even if the chocolate has hardened again after melting the moisture that was there could have allowed mold and bacteria to grow. So if you notice that the chocolate doesn’t smell or look right, and/or you don’t know if it has stayed at a stable temperature it may be best to throw it out.
• Bloomed Chocolate: Another way to tell is if the chocolate has bloomed. You’ll be able to tell if bloom has happened if there is a white film covering the chocolate. Not all bloom is bad and we’ll talk more about that later. But a powdery bloom could mean that moisture has been a problem at some point and it may be best not to eat it – especially if there is a lot of bloom and the chocolate is well past its expiration date.

3 Factors in Chocolate Spoilage

• The purer the chocolate is, the longer it will last – provided it has been sealed properly and kept in a cool dry place.
• The more ingredients added to the chocolate, like milk, cream, nuts, dried fruit… the more susceptible it is to mold and bacteria growth.
• Chocolate made from raw beans (uncooked) and chocolate with raw and or unpasteurized milk ingredients may be more likely to be contaminated with salmonella and other bacteria.

When it comes to food safety, we are better safe than sorry. No one likes to throw out good food, but taking a chance on food that has spoiled may leave you wishing you hadn’t.

All food goes bad at some point, so trust your eyes, your nose, and your better judgment.

But when we ask “does chocolate go bad?” we may just be wondering if it goes stale. Let’s talk a little bit about that.

How can you tell if chocolate has gone stale?

The main ways to tell if chocolate has gone stale are to check how it smells and how it tastes.

If you don’t notice that delicious chocolaty aroma when you open the container (or wrapper) there may be a problem. The longer chocolate has been on the shelf the less “chocolaty” it will smell.

Chocolate will also absorb the aroma and flavor of food items it’s stored with (if it’s not in a properly sealed container) so that may lead to a wonky smell and flavor.

If it does not have much of a chocolaty smell it probably won’t have much flavor.

After sniffing the chocolate in question you could taste a small portion. If there isn’t much flavor than your chocolate is probably stale and won’t be very satisfying.

Can chocolate chips go bad?

Chocolate chips, like other chocolate products, can last a long time (2 – 4 months in the pantry) if they are stored properly.

But if they are exposed to moisture either because of a hot humid environment or because of condensation due to temperature change they could go bad. The moisture could allow mold/bacteria growth.

The more ingredients (like milk, sugar, flavorings) in your chocolate chips the shorter their shelf life.

You would be able to tell if your chocolate chips have gone bad based on how they look, smell, and taste. If they are covered in a dry chalky film it could just be “sugar bloom” but if they also smell bad they may be experiencing mold or bacteria growth, in which case it would be best to throw them out.

Does cocoa powder go bad?

Cocoa powder can go bad if it gets contaminated with bacteria and moisture, but if it stays dry and properly stored it can last a long time.

An unopened container of cocoa powder can last for two to three years, and once you open it (as long as it is in a tightly sealed container stored in a cool dry place) it will be good for up to a year.

But if you notice it’s clumping and not tasting (or smelling) as chocolaty as it should – it’s probably starting to go stale and it may be time to buy some fresh cocoa powder.

Does chocolate go bad in heat?

Chocolate can go bad in the heat. If the chocolate melts or if condensation forms because of temperature changes then bacteria and mold could start to grow on the chocolate.

Although cocoa butter has a long shelf-life (due to its antioxidants and its low polyunsaturated fat content) if other oils have been added there may also be a concern of the oils in the chocolate going rancid.

In hot humid climates, it’s best to store chocolate in a sealed container in the fridge.

And as always, it’s best to eat chocolate as fresh as possible. This is probably even truer in a hot humid climate.

Does chocolate go rancid?

Chocolate can go rancid especially if it has additional oils/fats.

Pure chocolate (baker’s chocolate/chocolate liquor) is made of fairly equal parts cocoa solids and cocoa butter. Cocoa butter is a pretty stable vegetable (plant-based) fat that is low in polyunsaturated fats, so it is resistant to rancidity.

But chocolate that has added ingredients with other fats/oils will be less resistant to going rancid and will not have as long of shelf life.

If the oils/fats in your chocolate bar have gone rancid it may not smell or taste very good. If your chocolate is very old, has been exposed to moisture or has been stored improperly it may be best to throw it out and pick up some fresh chocolate.

Rancid oils can cause health concerns if consumed over long periods of time. So if you eat a little bit of rancid chocolate by mistake it’s not likely to cause problems but it’s always best to talk with your doctor if you’re concerned about your health.

Can chocolate mold?

This is a debated topic in the world of chocolate because chocolate is resistant to mold growth, especially dark chocolate. One of the main reasons being because there is no moisture (water) in it.

Some people are more sensitive to mold than others so even small amounts can cause problems. So can mold grow on chocolate? Yes. It’s possible.

Mold spores are in the air and will grow just about anywhere moisture is present so while chocolate is not likely to go moldy it could support mold growth under certain conditions. For example, if it was stored open in warm humid conditions or if your chocolate was to experience condensation or melt – that moisture could allow mold growth.

The more added ingredients in the chocolate, milk, cream, nuts, dried fruit… the more susceptible it could be to bacteria and mold when not stored properly.

There is also a type of mold which produces mycotoxins which cocoa beans are susceptible to. Mycotoxins are stable during food processing so it is possible that some chocolate will contain them. If that was the case and the chocolate was exposed to moisture any present mold spores could grow.

I’ve never seen mold on chocolate. Sometimes there will be a whitish powder on chocolate but that is referred to as bloom which I talk more about below. I would imagine mold would make the chocolate smell bad, so that would probably be your best indicator unless there is unmistakable visible mold growth.

Mold growth is not very likely, but it is possible so if you’re worried about it your best bet is to store your chocolate in a sealed container in the fridge.

Does chocolate go bad when it turns white?

The most common reason chocolate turns white is because of chocolate bloom, either fat bloom or sugar bloom.

This is usually due to processing problems (improper tempering), temperature variation, and/or moisture exposure. This does not mean it has gone bad.

Bloom happens when:

1. The cocoa butter separates and rises to the surface of the chocolate. This whitish film will feel oily. It usually happens because it hasn’t been processed and/or stored properly and has experienced changes in temperature.
2. The sugar in the chocolate crystallizes and is seen on the surface. This whitish film will be powdery. It usually happens when the chocolate has come into contact with moisture, either from condensation or another source.

While bloom is not really supposed to happen, it’s not necessarily dangerous/unhealthy.

If a lot of bloom has taken place, it could change the consistency of the chocolate and it may not be as pleasant to eat – it may not have that same melt in your mouth appeal. Melting it down, stirring it, and allowing it to cool again will usually cause the sugar and fat to mix back in properly.

As mentioned earlier, because sugar bloom can indicate the presence of moisture (at some point) there could also be a possibility (although slim) of mold growth.

If there is a lot of sugar bloom and the chocolate smells funny I wouldn’t be too keen on eating it.

Can you get sick from old chocolate?

Yes. Old chocolate can make you sick.

If the chocolate has been contaminated by mold or bacteria growth then it could make you feel sick.

If the chocolate is very old and has added oils (other than cocoa butter) the oils may turn rancid which could also cause problems. But this would only be a concern if you’ve eaten a lot of chocolate (containing rancid oil) over an extended period of time. A little bit shouldn’t be cause for alarm.

Stale chocolate (which has lost some of its aroma and flavor) is not likely to cause health concerns.

How long does chocolate last?

Chocolate has a pretty long shelf life. In this section, we cover the shelf life of dark, milk, and white chocolate.

And it’s helpful to know that the best before date is not the same as an expiration date, it’s there to indicate how long the manufacturer feels it will taste its best.

Chocolate can still be enjoyed after the best before date as long as it has been stored properly.

How long does dark chocolate last?

Based on my research, the common thought is that unopened pure dark chocolate will still be fine to eat from six months to a year past its best before date(as long as it has been stored properly in a cool dry place).

Some people will eat it well past that as long as it still looks, smells, and tastes fine. But each person has to use their own judgment when it comes to what is safe to consume.

Dark chocolate lasts a long time because of the lack of added ingredients, the fewer ingredients the longer the shelf life of the dark chocolate.

Once dark chocolate is open it should be eaten or used up as soon as possible. But if it is stored in a sealed container in a cool place it should be fine to consume within a few months.

How long does milk chocolate and white chocolate last?

Milk chocolate and white chocolate is generally good around 6 months past the best before date. This is true if it is unopened and stored properly (in a cool dry place).

Milk chocolate and white chocolate won’t last as long as dark chocolate (cut in half) because they have more ingredients that are susceptible to spoilage and bacteria growth (milk, cream, dried fruit…).

These kinds of chocolate treats can still be enjoyed for some time after their best before date because they usually have added preservatives that help keep them free of bacteria growth.

Once open it’s best to eat milk and white chocolate as soon as possible. But with proper storage (a sealed container in a cool place) milk and white chocolate, along with other chocolate treats with added ingredients like cream, dried fruit, nuts… should be eaten within a couple of weeks.

What kind of chocolate lasts the longest?

When asking does chocolate go bad, the next question is usually which kind lasts the longest?

Pure baking chocolate lasts the longest because its only ingredients are cocoa solids and cocoa butter.

Once other ingredients are introduced the shelf life can start to reduce. Of the sweet chocolates, dark chocolate will last longer than milk or white chocolate.

Both milk and white chocolate have added ingredients like milk, cream, sugar, flavorings… which shorten their shelf life

High-quality dark chocolate made with cocoa butter (and no other oils) will last longer than chocolate made with other oils like vegetable oil because cocoa butter has a longer shelf life than some other oils.

Why does chocolate last so long? 3 reasons

Pure chocolate (chocolate liquor/baking chocolate) has a long shelf life because of the cocoa butter, caffeine, and the absence of water.

1. Cocoa butter is stable, rich in antioxidants, and low in polyunsaturated fatty acids which make it resistant to rancidity.
2. Caffeine is resistant to mold (fungal growth).
3. Both bacteria and most molds need water to grow so because pure chocolate does not have added water then it does not tend to harbor mold or bacteria which extends its shelf life.

While pure chocolate lasts a long time, the shelf life starts to reduce when other ingredients like milk, cream, nuts, dried fruit, oils, flavorings… are added. But many chocolate producers counteract that with added preservatives.

How to make chocolate last longer

The best way to make your chocolate last longer is by storing it properly.

For best flavor, chocolate should be stored between 15 – 17°C (59 – 63°F) and properly sealed so its exposure to air and moisture is kept as low as possible. This will keep it tasting fresh and discourage any possibility of mold or bacteria contamination/growth.

If you live in a warm climate, your chocolate may last longer if you store it in the fridge or freezer. Again it is important to store it in a properly sealed container because chocolate acts like a sponge, sucking up the flavor and aroma of other foods.

If you store your chocolate in the fridge/freezer and don’t plan on eating it all at once you should put the uneaten portion back in the fridge as soon as possible. That way you’ll avoid condensation which could lead to “bloom” as mentioned earlier in this post.

Even if you don’t live in a warm climate you may prefer to keep your chocolate in the fridge as I do. I enjoy the cool feel and the satisfaction of the flavor evolving as it melts in my mouth. The increased snap when I bite into it also adds to the experience.

Shelf Life of Chocolate and You

I hope I’ve answered your questions about how long chocolate lasts. In my research, I compiled information to give you the best resource possible. If you have any more questions or tips please let me know in the comments.

And if this article helps you improve your chocolate experience I would love to hear about it and would really appreciate it if you share it with your chocolate-loving friends.

On a cold day, there is nothing like a cup of hot chocolate. Add a crackling fire and it’s pretty much paradise. In this post, you’ll learn about the best hot chocolate mix (brands review), 14 things to add to hot chocolate, and the difference between hot chocolate and hot cocoa.

10 Best Hot Chocolate Mixes for Cold Nights

Is there anything better than putting on a thick pair of socks (like these) and sipping a hot chocolate beverage on a chilly winter morning?

• No. No there isn’t.

Are you looking for the best hot chocolate mix on the market? Here’s your guide to top-of-the-line hot chocolate mixes.

Hot Chocolate vs Hot Cocoa

Before we get into specifics, let me clear up something that comes up often: Is there a difference between hot cocoa and hot chocolate?

In practical terms, the answer is no. Companies use the terms interchangeably, so you might see the exact same beverage described as hot chocolate or hot cocoa. Some brands will even put both labels in their product descriptions so that they don’t miss any potential customer searches.

Historically speaking, however, there is a distinction between the two:

• Hot cocoa is made with a combination of milk, sugar and cocoa powder. It’s the richer and sweeter drink of the two.
• Hot chocolate is made with chocolate that’s been ground or shaved to quickly melt into milk. In the olden days, it wouldn’t contain sweeteners or cocoa powders at all, so it would be the stronger drink. However, modern companies often add things like sugar, cream, caramel, vanilla and cocoa powder to their hot chocolate mixes, so they’re virtually indistinguishable from hot cocoa.

If you’re looking for a “pure” hot cocoa or hot chocolate mix, it might take a bit of effort to find it. Most companies only make hybrid drinks these days.

5 Best Hot Chocolate Mixes: Packets

Now that we’ve covered the nature of the drink, let’s dive into the best hot cocoa mixes on the market. Here are my favorites that come in convenient packet form!

1. Ghirardelli Hot Cocoa Premium Indulgence

Ghirardelli has a reputation for luxury, and once you take a sip of their Premium Indulgence, you’ll realize how they obtained that reputation.

It’s the perfect blend of smooth, creamy and velvety, and you’ll be downing the whole cup before the dregs have the chance to settle at the bottom.

How do they make such fine hot cocoa? According to their website, they start by hand-picking their cocoa beans before adding a carefully-measured blend of vanilla and sugar. To top it all off, they flavor it with real chocolate.

If you’re looking for top-tier hot cocoa and not just a knockoff imitation, consider Ghirardelli Premium Indulgence.

• Feature: Luxury chocolate
• Packaging: Packets
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 1.5 ounces per pack, 15 packs in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 170 calories
• Fat: 5 grams
• Sodium: 120 milligrams
• Carbs: 32 grams (2 grams of fiber, 26 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 3 grams

2. Land O’ Lakes Cocoa Classics Variety Pack

Offering five different flavors for five different moods, the Land O’ Lakes Cocoa Classics will serve your entire household on a frigid morning.

Kids will go crazy for “Chocolate Supreme” while mom and dad will have an appreciation for the subtle swirls of “French Vanilla.” People of all ages will enjoy the deliciousness of “Arctic White”. If there are any mint fans in the house, “Chocolate Mint” will wake up their senses as soon as it hits their tongue, and “Caramel” is a classic that no one will ever turn down.

In addition to their fanciful flavors, Land O’ Lakes is also renowned for their smooth, creamy textures. Their hot cocoas are made with nonfat milk and Dutch-processed chocolate. You can just tell the difference in quality when you compare it to something that you buy on regular grocery shelves!

• Feature: Variety pack (five flavors)
• Packaging: Packets
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 1.25 ounces per packet, 48 packets in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Chocolate Supreme, Chocolate Mint, French Vanilla, Arctic White, Caramel
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 140 – 160 calories
• Fat: 2.5 – 5 grams
• Sodium: 170 – 290 milligrams
• Carbs: 26 grams (1 gram of fiber, 19 – 24 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 1 – 3 grams
• Calcium: 33 – 105 grams

3. Nestle Hot Chocolate Mix

Nestle is another brand that’s known for their chocolate products, so they have a lot to live up to with their hot chocolate mix. Fortunately, they’ve mastered the art of making a good cup, so I’m happy to consider them a contender for the best hot cocoa mix.

Their chocolate tastes like the real thing with no nasty byproducts. Their powder can be mixed with milk or hot water depending on your preference for beverage thickness.

Another great thing about these Nestle packets is that they’re smaller and more quickly mixed than some of the other brands on this list. They’re frequently used in offices, hotels, and lounges in addition to residential homes. They make it easy to get your chocolate fix, and they taste great to boot!

• Feature: 99.9 percent caffeine free
• Packaging: Packets
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 0.71 ounces per packet, 50 packets in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 80 calories
• Fat: 2.5 grams
• Sodium: 180 milligrams
• Carbs: 16 grams (less than 1 gram of fiber, 12 grams of sugar)
• Protein: Less than 1 gram
• Calcium: None

4. Four Sigmatic Organic Mushroom Hot Cacao

As a dairy-free, gluten-free and caffeine-free product made with completely organic ingredients, the Four Sigmatic Organic Mushroom Hot Cacao is your answer to a vegan or paleo version of hot cocoa. It won’t make you compromise your ethical standards, but it’ll still deliver warmth and flavor. As a bonus, it can also give you a jolt of energy during a long day!

It achieves this energetic infusion thanks to its secret ingredient: mushrooms. Despite the name, the Four Sigmatic Organic Mushroom Hot Cacao doesn’t actually taste like ‘shrooms, but it’s made with the extractions of wild cordyceps that are known for their mood- and energy-boosting properties. It’s the vegan alternative to caffeine.

Do you need a pick-me-up in the morning? Could you use a little more pep in your step before a workout? Consider the Four Sigmatic Organic Mushroom Hot Cacao.

• Feature: Organic, vegan
• Packaging: Packets
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 0.21 ounces per packet, 10 packets in total
• Kid friendly: Maybe
• Flavor options: Chocolate with coconut sugar and cordyceps
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 25 calories
• Fat: 1 gram
• Sodium: 25 milligrams
• Carbs: 4 grams (2 grams of sugar)
• Protein: None
• Calcium: None

5. Velvet Cocoa Hot Chocolate Mix Gourmet Powder

Velvet Cocoa Hot Chocolate Mix is made with just three ingredients: cocoa, cane sugar, and sea salt. When you taste its premium flavor, however, you’ll be surprised that its label is so simple. It makes an exquisite mug of hot cocoa with sweet and silky notes that will slide down your throat and warm you from the inside out.

Unlike the other products on this list so far, the Velvet Cocoa Hot Chocolate Mix doesn’t come with pre-packaged portions. It’s shipped in a three-pound bag, and a serving size is simply “two tablespoons.” You can add more or less to your mug depending on how strong you like your hot cocoa.

Another nice thing about Velvet Cocoa Hot Chocolate Mix is that it can be used as a cooking ingredient as well as a beverage mix. Whether you’re hoping to eat, drink, bake or sprinkle cocoa on your menu, this is the powder for you!

• Feature: Organic, kosher, gluten-free
• Packaging: Pouch
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 48 ounces, 38 servings in total
• Kid friendly: Maybe
• Flavor options: Dark chocolate (peppermint and hazelnut praline available in a separate gift set)
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 130 calories
• Fat: 1 gram
• Sodium: 40 milligrams
• Carbs: 31 grams (3 grams of fiber, 26 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams
• Calcium: 21 milligrams

5 Best Hot Chocolate Mixes: Tins and Bags

Let’s say that you don’t want individual packets. Let’s say that you’re another chocoholic, and you’re looking for a heftier bag of cocoa powder to get you through the entire winter. Here’s what I would recommend for cans and pouches.

1. Ghirardelli Chocolate Sweet Ground

Ghirardelli does it again. Their “Sweet Ground” cocoa mix comes in a powdered form that can be added to everything from beverages to baked goods, and it’s made with the finest of ingredients for a high-end, high-quality taste.

The first thing that you’ll notice is that it’s sealed in a can instead of portioned into individual packets. This means that you’ll need to decide for yourself how many tablespoons to add to your milk or water. Ghirardelli recommends three, but if you like an extra-strong blast of chocolate on your tongue, you can scoop a higher amount.

Another great thing about this powder is that it’s made from real cacao beans. There are no artificial flavors here! If you only want the best hot chocolate mix, consider Ghirardelli Sweet Ground.

• Feature: Luxury chocolate
• Packaging: Can
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 48 ounces, 39 servings in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Dark chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 120 calories
• Fat: 1.5 grams
• Sodium: 50 milligrams
• Carbs: 31 grams (2 grams of sugar, 27 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 1 gram
• Calcium: 2 percent

2. Lakanto Drinking Chocolate

Lakanto Drinking Chocolate is unlike almost every other brand of hot chocolate on the market. Let me count the ways:

1. It’s made with an all-natural sugar substitute. Instead of artificial sweeteners, it uses a special “monk fruit” extract that comes from a plant found in the highlands of Asia.
2. It’s been supplemented with probiotics for digestive health.
3. It’s low-carb and low-calorie. It doesn’t contain any sugar, dairy or gluten. It won’t spike your hypoglycemic index after drinking it.

If that wasn’t enough, Lakanto Drinking Chocolate also offers a sweet and full-bodied flavor that will leave you coming back for cup after cup. Instead of asking yourself why you should buy it, a better question is why you haven’t already bought it!

• Feature: Organic, vegan, probiotic ingredients
• Packaging: Pouch
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 10 ounces, 26 servings in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? Yes

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 10 calories
• Fat: None
• Sodium: 50 milligrams
• Carbs: 9 grams (3 grams fiber, no sugar)
• Protein: None
• Calcium: 4 percent

3. Swiss Miss Classics Hot Cocoa Mix

You can say that Swiss Miss started it all. They’re one of the first brands that you think of when you daydream about hot chocolate. Thankfully, they’re just as luscious as they were when they first started brewing cocoa drinks in the 1950s.

Part of their reputation is based on the fact that they use real dairy products mixed with real cocoa beans. In a world where companies are racing to be everything-free, Swiss Miss still offers their classic formula.

They’re also extremely convenient when it comes to brewing. This tightly-lidded container can be taken to schools, offices, daycares, hotels and anywhere else that you’d like to share a cup of hot chocolate with someone. Swiss Miss is a brand that’s meant to be savored with your loved ones, so break out the coffee mugs and enjoy!

• Feature: Classic hot cocoa
• Packaging: Can
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 58.4 ounces, 87 servings in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Milk chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 80 calories
• Fat: 2 grams
• Sodium: 140 milligrams
• Carbs: 15 grams (less than 1 gram of fiber, 7 grams of sugar)
• Protein: Less than 1 gram
• Calcium: 360 grams

4. Swiss Miss Sensible Sweets

What if you love the taste of Swiss Miss, but you do like your products to be everything-free? What if you have allergies or sensitivities that keep you away from most hot chocolate brands?

Swiss Miss Sensible Sweets is for you. Made without sugar, gluten or caffeine, it’s the healthier alternative to Swiss Miss’s usual fare. It’s also a fine source of calcium!

It still has the warm and creamy taste that made Swiss Miss such a famous brand, especially if you prepare it with milk instead of water. You just won’t have to deal with the extra calories sneaking on your waistline. One of the “free”s on the label is also “guilt-free,” so you can sip it to your heart’s content.

• Feature: Sugar-free, gluten-free
• Packaging: Can
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 13.8 ounces, 22 servings in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Milk chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? Yes

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 70 grams
• Fat: 1 gram
• Sodium: 160 milligrams
• Carbs: 12 grams (1 gram of fiber, 9 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams
• Calcium: 360 grams

5. Starbucks Classic Hot Cocoa Tin

Rich and sweet, Starbucks’s hot chocolate is a go-to beverage for many people during long commutes. But what if you were able to bring its flavors home instead of dealing with crazy lines?

Starbucks Classic Hot Cocoa Tin lets you do it. These hot chocolate tins contain the exact same thing that goes into your drink at the Starbucks counter. As a bonus, they come in a twin pack, so you won’t be running out of drink mix anytime soon!

If you’re looking for a great hot chocolate mix, Starbucks Classic Hot Cocoa is a delicious and delectable product. It isn’t quite as convenient as packets or ready-to-go orders, but its DIY container offers greater control over your beverage experience, and that’s worth the trade.

• Feature: Name-brand, ethically-sourced chocolate
• Packaging: Tin
• Price: See current price.
• Units: 30 ounces per tin, 60 servings in total
• Kid friendly: Yes
• Flavor options: Chocolate
• Fat-free/sugar-free? No

Nutrition Info, Per Serving

• Calories: 120 calories
• Fat: 2 grams
• Sodium: None
• Carbs: 22 grams (3 grams of fiber, 17 grams of sugar)
• Protein: 2 grams
• Calcium: 2 percent

14 Things to Put in Hot Chocolate

So, rich hot chocolate is fine. But what else can you put in hot chocolate? Here are 14 add-ins to spice up your drink.

1. Whipped Cream: Easy to make at home, buy a can, or you can try a refillable whipped cream dispenser.
2. Marshmallows: For authentic hot cocoa, consider dehydrated marshmallow. Or for something different, maybe some gourmet peppermint marshmallows.
3. Maple Syrup: Just add 1-2 teaspoons to each mug. I recommend pure maple – the artificial stuff just doesn’t have the best flavor. And for drinks, I prefer the dark and robust taste. The lighter taste syrup is too mild for mixing with chocolate.
4. Peanut Butter: Here’s how to make salted peanut butter hot chocolate.
5. Nutella: Done in much the same way as with peanut butter, but with Nutella.
6. Chocolate chips: Consider dark or white chocolate, butterscotch or peanut butter chips.
7. Panela: Unrefined cane sugar adds a depth of flavor to chocolate that I love. When I lived in Ecuador, I used to make chocolate with chocolate liquor and panela. Add a little pure vanilla extract and it is AMAZING!
8. Oreos: Enough said.
9. Peppermints / Candy Canes: Adding some peppermint candy to your drink will add some great flavor. Use whole or crushed candy canes.
10. Cinnamon: Just a teaspoon in the pot or a pinch in your mug will do the trick.
11. Ginger: A slice of ginger root in your drink or while preparing stovetop will add that gingerbread man taste.
12. Alcohol: If you are of legal age in your state/province, you might consider brandy, Bailey’s Irish Creme, or amaretto.
13. Flavored Syrups: This is a great way to experience different flavors. You might consider salted caramel, vanilla, or even spicy ginger. If you don’t have any of these on hand, maybe some maraschino cherry juice will do the trick?
14. Chili Powder: While spicy chocolate isn’t universally loved, if you like that combo, you might consider adding a pinch of chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon to make some Mexican hot chocolate.

If you have guests, you might consider setting up a hot cocoa bar. Here are some great suggestions about how to do this. Some accessories to consider at your hot cocoa bar include sprinkles, mugs, straws and spoons, chopped nuts, and pretzel rods.

Food that pair well with chocolate: Some foods that pair well with chocolate include strawberries, raspberries, strong coffee, chai tea, goat cheese, blue cheese, and spicy foods.

The Best Hot Cocoa Mix: What’s Your Favorite?

These are just a few brands that I would consider to be the best of the best. There are plenty more, of course, and I encourage you to have your own taste tests on chilly winter mornings. What’s your favorite? Tell us in the comments!

You never know when you might stumble on the most magnificent hot chocolate of them all. Just do me a favor and let me know if you ever find something out of this world!

Chocolate liquor, it sounds good right? But there’s some confusion about what it is (and if it contains alcohol). And what about chocolate liqueur? In this post, you’ll learn the differences between chocolate liquor and chocolate liqueur.

What is Chocolate Liquor? Liquor, Liqueur: What’s the Difference?

Liquor, liqueur – are we just talking about two different kinds of alcoholic beverages? Maybe, but not necessarily.

And how do you pronounce liquor and liqueur? They can sound so similar depending on who you’re talking to.

Sound confusing? It can be – but it’s also pretty easy to sort out once we start digging in, so let’s get to it.

3 Differences: Chocolate Liquor and Liqueur

1. Chocolate liquor: Thick paste-like mass made of pure cocoa solids and cocoa butter. Made from cocoa beans. Doesn’t contain alcohol.
2. Chocolate liqueur: Beverage made from a base liquor like whiskey or vodka (containing alcohol) to which chocolate is added. Contains alcohol.
3. Liquor: Distilled alcoholic drink, made with grains, fruits, or vegetables. Chocolate liqueur is a type of liquor. Contains alcohol.

Is there alcohol in chocolate liquor?

If you’re talking about chocolate liquor, as in what is used to make chocolaty treats, then no there is no alcohol.

But it depends on what kind of liquor you’re talking about. Many people call any beverage containing alcohol: liquor. So if you’re talking about a beverage like creme de cacao then, yes there is alcohol.

So we need to get down to what these terms mean. Does liquor always refer to booze or alcohol-containing beverages? No, it doesn’t. This brings us to the next question.

What is liquor?

When we talk about liquor (ˈli-kər) we usually refer to a beverage that contains alcohol. But the word liquor at its base just means a liquid substance.

Chocolate liquor is a “liquor” in the sense that it is (often) a liquid substance. We’ll talk more about that later.

But first, let’s look a little closer at what is meant when the word liquor is used in reference to alcohol. It can be confusing, especially when we’re sorting out the difference between chocolate liquor and chocolate liqueur.

Alcohol-containing Liquor: Liquor with alcohol is more specific than it seems. It refers to all alcoholic beverages that are distilled, like tequila, gin, brandy, whiskey, vodka, and all liqueurs. So chocolate liqueur is a type of alcoholic liquor.

So how is it possible that chocolate liquor does not contain alcohol? That’s where we get back to the base meaning of the word liquor – a liquid substance.

What is Chocolate Liquor?

Chocolate liquor is the base substance from which chocolate is made.

It is a thick paste-like mass made of pure cocoa solids and cocoa butter. It’s made from cocoa beans. The beans are fermented, dried and then roasted.

Once the skins are removed from the beans the nibs (the inside part of the bean) are ground into a cocoa mass called cocoa paste. The paste liquefies when it’s heated.

The chocolate liquor contains cocoa solids and cocoa butter in fairly equal amounts. The liquor can be molded into raw chocolate blocks or separated into cocoa butter and cocoa solids.

Chocolate liquor may also be called cocoa liquor, cacao liquor, or cocoa mass. Unsweetened baking chocolate is also a form of chocolate liquor.

In the following video, you’ll see the process of how chocolate liquor is made. The roasted cocoa nibs are ground to a fine grind and then the chocolate paste or liquor is made. In the video, they go on to extract the cocoa butter. You’ll see the liquor at around 0:45 in the video.

What does chocolate liquor contain?

According to What Einstein Told His Cook: Kitchen Science Explained, these are the 5 major components of chocolate liquor.

1. 54% cocoa butter (fat)
2. 17% carbohydrates
3. 11% protein
4. 6% tannins
5. 1.5% theobromine (alkaloid stimulant, similar to caffeine)

The FDA requires that the percentage of fat be from 50% to 58%.

Chocolate liquor also contains the following three components. The amounts of polyphenols and anandamide are minuscule.

1. Phenylethylamine (less than 1%)
2. Polyphenols (antioxidants)
3. Anandamide (closely related to THC, the active ingredient in marijuana).

Is there caffeine in chocolate liquor?

Yes. Cacao nibs contain caffeine so the liquor which comes from them also contains caffeine.

The darker the chocolate the more caffeine it contains. So because chocolate liquor is a basic form of chocolate it will contain more caffeine than the same amount of chocolate that has added ingredients like sugar, cream, milk…

Is there gluten in chocolate liquor?

Cocoa nibs do not contain gluten. So the pure liquor (cocoa mass/cocoa liquor) which is made from the nibs does not contain it either. We’re not referring to the chocolate-flavored alcoholic beverage here.

But products made from the liquor like chocolates and chocolate bars may contain gluten because they contain added ingredients.

It is always best to read labels very carefully and or call the manufacturer of the product if you are avoiding gluten.

Is chocolate liquor vegan?

Yes. The pure cocoa mass/paste (liquor) made from cocoa nibs is vegan because it contains nothing but cocoa solids and cocoa butter. They come from the fruit of the Theobroma cacao tree.

But when that base product (chocolate liquor) is used to make other treats, those products might not be considered vegan. Other ingredients, like dairy (milk and whey), honey, white sugar, and gelatin may be used in some chocolate.

Research is important so it may be best to call the manufacturer of the product you’re concerned about just to make sure of all the ingredients.

Is chocolate liquor dairy free?

Yes. Pure chocolate liquor (cocoa liquor/cocoa paste) is dairy-free. It comes from chocolate nibs that do not contain dairy. They do contain cocoa butter, but this is plant-based butter and has nothing to do with dairy.

But there’s a need to be careful if you’re avoiding dairy because the liquor is used to make other products like chocolates, and chocolate bars so you’ll need to check the ingredients in your chocolate products carefully.

Darker means better: Usually the darker (and less sweet) the chocolate the less likely it is to contain dairy. It’s probably best to call the manufacturer if you’re concerned.

Is chocolate liquor healthy?

Yes, in moderation it can be. It is a purely plant-based food which has some health benefits. It becomes less healthy as other ingredients (like sugar, cream, or milk) are added to it.

The darker and less sweet the chocolate – the better.

Is chocolate liquor poisonous to dogs?

Yes, it is toxic to dogs. There are compounds in the chocolate nibs (like theobromine and caffeine) that a dog’s system cannot handle as we can.

You may think that because it is a more pure form of chocolate it would be alright, but it isn’t. More chocolate liquor = more toxic for your dog.

No amount of chocolate (in any form) is good for a dog.

What is chocolate liquor used for?

It is used to make all kinds of chocolate products: baking chocolate, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, chocolate bars, cocoa powder, cocoa butter…

• Baking chocolate: the liquor is poured into molds and allowed to harden into blocks.
• Sweet chocolate (dark chocolate): more cocoa butter is added along with some sugar.
• Milk chocolate: milk (dried or concentrated) is added along with cocoa butter and sugar.
• White chocolate: the cocoa solids are removed and the cocoa butter is used with added sugar, milk, and additional flavorings.
• Cocoa powder: is made by pressing the liquor and removing some of the cocoa butter and then pulverizing the cocoa into a fine powder.
• Cocoa butter: this is made when the liquor is pressed and the butter is separated from the solids. The butter can then be poured into a mold and go on to be used in other products.

So now that we know about the kind of chocolate liquor that does not contain alcohol, what about the kind that does?

What is Chocolate Liqueur?

Chocolate liqueur is a beverage made from a base liquor like whiskey or vodka (containing alcohol) to which chocolate is added. Some chocolate liqueurs contain dark chocolate and others are made with milk chocolate or white chocolate.

Chocolate liqueur can be served on its own (usually over ice) or mixed into other recipes for food or beverages.

Does chocolate liqueur have alcohol?

Yes. Chocolate liqueur contains alcohol. It is made by adding chocolate and other ingredients to a base liquor like vodka or another spirit (distilled liquor).

You can buy or make non-alcoholic chocolate liqueur as well. But when it comes to liqueurs, they usually contain alcohol so it’s best to make sure it’s non-alcoholic if you’re concerned.

What is liqueur used for? Liqueur is used to add flavor and a touch of alcohol to beverages like milk and coffee and added to other types of alcohol to make drinks like a daiquiri or a Manhattan. It can also be served alone or over ice.

Sweet liqueurs (like chocolate liqueur) are often served after a meal similar to a dessert.

It can also be used in cooking/baking recipes and as a filling for chocolates.

Is chocolate liquor the same as chocolate liqueur?

No, they are not the same. But chocolate liqueur is a type of liquor.

This also depends on what kind of chocolate liquor you’re talking about. As we talked about earlier, chocolate liquor that refers to the base mass of cocoa solids does not contain alcohol, so it is not the same as a chocolate liqueur.

But when some people talk about chocolate liquor they may be referring to a beverage containing alcohol. So they may be referring to a chocolate liqueur.

In the following video, you’ll hear a simple explanation of the difference between these two types of alcohol-containing beverages. They are talking about liquor and liqueur in general, but this also applies to chocolate liqueur.

Did you notice the difference in the pronunciation in “liquor” “liqueur?“ Is that how you pronounce them? How should they be pronounced?

How do you pronounce liqueur and liquor?

This can be a tricky subject because the pronunciation can differ based on where you are from and your accent. But one thing is certain: These words aren’t pronounced the same way. Or at least not if you don’t want to make your friends giggle.

According to Merriam Webster, this is how they should be pronounced (or at least from my perspective):

• Liquor – “li-kər“ with a short i and an er pronounced similar to the er in the word “her“.
• Liqueur – “li-ˈkər”, “liˈku̇r”, “liˈkyu̇r”. This is a little more tricky because there are a few different acceptable possibilities. Li-ˈkər which is the same as the pronunciation for liquor except the er sound is emphasized a little longer like you might say the r in “brr” when it’s cold out. And then there’s liˈku̇r where the ueur is said more like the ur sound in the word sure. And the last example liˈkyu̇r is to pronounce the ueur like you would in the word your.

Are any of those options how you pronounce those words? If not I would love to know how you do. Have some fun and sound them out for me in the comments.

What are chocolate liqueurs? 2 types

1. The term chocolate liqueurs refer to little chocolates filled with various kinds of liquor/alcohol.
2. It also refers to liqueurs which are a type of sweet liquor containing chocolate (dark, milk, or white) and has sugar and other ingredients like milk, cinnamon, cream, vanilla… added to it.

And to make things even more interesting, the little chocolates may also be filled with chocolate liqueur.

Do chocolate liqueurs contain alcohol?

Yes, they generally do. Liqueurs are made from a variety of distilled liquors (vodka, whiskey…) that contain alcohol.

You can also get non-alcoholic liqueurs. But it’s always best to ask and/or read labels carefully if you are avoiding alcohol.

Why This Matters

If you’re a chocolate lover like me this matters. It’s satisfying to know where our favorite treat comes from, how it’s made, and the terms used in the world of chocolate.

If you want to buy your niece or nephew, granddaughter or grandson a box of chocolates but don’t want to do something that could upset their parents.

If your recipe calls for chocolate liquor.

If you’re health-conscious. For yourself, and your pets.

If you want to dazzle your chocolate-loving friends with all your chocolaty knowledge.

And it’s always good to be less confused about something that matters to you. So I hope I’ve helped with that and hey, maybe now you’ll have a new riddle to share – something like “When is a liquor not liquor?”… When it’s chocolate liquor! 🙂