Tagged with 'chocolate'

Come see us at the Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show

Calling all candy enthusiasts, chocolate lovers, & confectionery professionals! Get ready for an event that will satisfy your sweet tooth & ignite your passion for all things delicious. The Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show is just around the corner, offering an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of candy-making, gourmet specialties & snacks, & of course networking with industry leaders. This is an absolute must for anyone with a passion for sweet treats & a desire to stay ahead in the candy industry, PLUS it’s your chance to meet US in person! 

 

Discover the Show:
The Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show is a premier event that brings together candy shop owners, confectioners, chocolatiers, & industry professionals from all over the country. Explore the latest offerings in every c&y category, from delectable chocolates to gourmet specialties & everything in between. 

WHO: YOU’RE INVITED! 

WHAT: Philadelphia Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show

WHERE: Atlantic City Convention Center, Atlantic City, NJ. 

WHEN: September 10-12, 2023

Click HERE to register.

 

Networking Opportunities:
One of the standout features of the Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show is the invaluable networking opportunities it offers. As an attendee, you'll have the chance to connect with like-minded professionals, forge new relationships, & exchange ideas with some of the most accomplished figures in the candy industry. Whether you're seeking advice on business strategies, sourcing new suppliers, or simply want to share your own expertise, this event creates the perfect atmosphere for collaboration & growth.


Seminars & Workshops:
To further enrich your candy-making knowledge & skills, this show offers an impressive lineup of seminars & workshops led by top confectionery professionals. These sessions cover a wide range of topics, including the latest techniques, market insights, packaging innovations, & emerging trends. By attending these educational sessions, you'll gain invaluable insights that can help you elevate your candy business to new heights.


Meet the Stover Team:
Stover & Company will have a booth at this year’s Philadelphia National Candy, Gift & Gourmet Show for the very first time! This is your chance to meet us in person, chat about your favorite products, & lock in special show pricing at booth #517.


As a renowned company in the bakery supply industry & rapidly growing in the confectionery industry, we pride ourselves on providing a vast selection of high-quality products & ingredients. We will be showcasing our exclusive line of domestic & imported compound coatings & couverture chocolate: Sweet Shoppe & Eleven o’one. Prepare to be tantalized by the exceptional taste & quality of our offerings.

To make your visit even sweeter, we will be offering FREE SAMPLES of our exclusive brands at booth #517. Indulge in a diverse range of flavors, textures, & innovations that will delight your taste buds & leave you craving for more. It's a fantastic opportunity to experience firsthand the superior quality & delectable flavors that our products have to offer.

 

We can’t wait to see you there!

Dairy-Free Chocolate Mousse Recipe

Recently, there’s been a significant rise in the number of people adopting vegan diets, whether for health, ethical, or environmental reasons. As a result, the demand for vegan-friendly ingredients has skyrocketed. 

One ingredient that has captured the attention of vegan food enthusiasts around the world is dairy-free chocolate. With its rich & satisfying flavor, dairy-free chocolate has become a staple in vegan recipes, offering a delectable & cruelty-free alternative to traditional chocolate.

Vegan friendly chocolate is made without the use of any animal-derived ingredients, such as milk or butter, making it suitable for those following a dairy free or vegan diet. While some pure dark chocolates can be vegan on their own, some vegan chocolate is crafted using plant-based substitutes like almond milk, coconut milk, or soy milk. In the case of our very own  Eleven o’one Seventy Dark Couverture Chocolate, no ingredient is substituted as it's simply made from rich Belgian cocoa, sugar & cocoa butter (don’t worry, it's not really butter) is enough to ensure a delectable & creamy texture.

 

Today we’re going to teach you how to make a dairy-free chocolate mousse using a simple recipe. 

 

Dairy-Free Chocolate Mousse

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Eleven o’one Sixty Dark Couverture Chocolate
  • 1 can (14 oz) coconut cream, refrigerated
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar (optional)
  • Fresh berries or mint leaves for garnish (optional)


Instructions:

  1. In a cold, metal mixing bowl, whip the cold coconut cream with a whisk until you form stiff peaks. It should look like a stiff whipped cream.
  2. Place the Eleven o’one Sixty Dark Couverture Chocolate in a microwave-safe bowl & melt it in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until smooth & fully melted. Alternatively, you can use a double boiler for melting the chocolate. Just be sure not to overheat the chocolate (110˚F max).
  3. Gently fold the melted chocolate with a rubber spatula into the whipped coconut cream until fully combined into a mousse consistency.
  4. Pour the mousse mixture into individual serving glasses or bowls. Cover them with plastic wrap & refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
  5. Once the mousse has set, remove it from the refrigerator. If desired, garnish each serving with fresh berries or mint leaves.
  6. Serve chilled  & enjoy your vegan dark chocolate mousse!


Pro Tips: 

  1. Refrigerate your metal bowl & mixer attachments overnight. Starting with a  cold bowl will help whip your coconut cream best!
  2. Experiment with additional flavors by adding a teaspoon of instant coffee or a dash of cinnamon to the mousse mixture before blending.


Dairy-free chocolate is a game-changer when it comes to vegan desserts. It can be melted & used as a luscious topping for cakes, cupcakes, & brownies, creating a velvety smooth finish that rivals traditional chocolate. We hope you enjoy this decadent & vegan-friendly dark chocolate dessert!

At Stover & Company we are regularly sourcing new products to add to our robust selection on our website. We recommend that you check back soon to see if we have added any more dairy free ingredients to the line up! 

 

Belgian vs. American Chocolate What’s your preference?

When it comes to indulging in the world of chocolate, two nations have created a delicious reputation for themselves: Belgium & the United States. Many nations offer their own distinct style, craftsmanship & flavors that have captivated chocolate enthusiasts worldwide for centuries. 

Let’s explore the unique characteristics of these chocolate lineages! Together we’ll dive into their histories, production methods & taste profiles. So grab a bar of your favorite chocolate & join us on this mouthwatering journey.

Belgian Chocolate: A Legacy of Excellence
Belgium is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of chocolate making. The country's love affair with chocolate dates back to the 17th century when cocoa beans first arrived from the New World. Belgian chocolate is known for its exquisite craftsmanship & uncompromised quality. Belgian chocolatiers are dedicated to using high-quality ingredients, including premium cocoa beans, pure cocoa butter, & fresh dairy, to ensure a smooth & velvety texture. Belgian chocolate is often characterized by its rich, complex flavors & a balanced sweetness that tantalizes the taste buds.


American Chocolate: Innovation & Variety
The United States may not have the same historic chocolate legacy as Belgium, but it has embraced chocolate with its own unique flair. American chocolate manufacturers are known for their innovative spirit, pushing boundaries & creating a wide range of flavor combinations. From classic milk chocolate bars to adventurous blends with caramel, nuts, fruits or even spices, American chocolate offers a wide variety that caters to every palate. The emphasis on experimentation & diversity has made American chocolate a playground for those seeking new taste experiences.


The Production Process: From Bean to Bar
Both Belgian & American chocolate makers pay great attention to the production process, ensuring the highest standards of quality & taste.

Belgian chocolate makers follow traditional techniques, often involving small-batch production & meticulous craftsmanship. They roast & grind cocoa beans to develop their distinct flavor profiles, using a process called conching to refine the texture & create a smooth mouthfeel. The result is chocolate that feels like a work of art in every bite.

In contrast, many American chocolate manufacturers have adopted modern industrial methods to meet the demand for larger quantities. They use large-scale roasters & highly automated machinery to process cocoa beans, achieving consistency & efficiency. While this approach may differ from the traditional Belgian methods, it allows for the production of chocolate on a mass scale without compromising on taste.

Flavor Profiles: A Matter of Taste

Belgian & American chocolates offer distinct flavor experiences that appeal to different preferences.

Belgian chocolate boasts a robust, well-rounded taste. Its higher cocoa content contributes to a more pronounced chocolate flavor. Whether you're savoring a classic dark chocolate or indulging in a creamy milk chocolate praline, Belgian chocolate tends to have a more complex flavor profile that lingers on the palate.

American chocolate, on the other hand, is often sweeter & creamier. It often features a higher sugar content & a slightly milder chocolate taste. The emphasis on confectionery elements, such as caramel, peanut butter, or nougat, gives American chocolate a playful & indulgent character.

The Verdict: A Matter of Personal Preference
In the battle of Belgian vs. American chocolate, there is no clear winner. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal taste & individual preferences. 

Belgian chocolate offers a refined & sophisticated experience, while American chocolate embraces creativity & variety. Some may prefer the smooth elegance of Belgian chocolate, while others may gravitate toward the delightful surprises & familiar comforts of American chocolate.

Whether you find yourself in a charming Belgian chocolate shop or perusing the candy aisle of an American grocery store, the world of chocolate offers a realm of pleasure waiting to be explored. 

At Stover & Company we offer both! Choose from our Belgian selection which includes Callebaut & our own exclusive Eleven o’one Couverture Chocolate. We also carry domestic lines such as Merckens, Peter’s & our very own Sweet Shoppe

Don’t know which product is best for your specific needs? Reach out to our customer service team at chocolate@stovercompany.com & ask for a product specialist to help you today! 

.

 

 

 

 

Merckens Compound Coatings vs. Sweet Shoppe Compound Coatings: A Delectable Comparison

When it comes to the world of confectionery, compound coatings play a crucial role in creating mouthwatering treats. Today, we’re dipping into a comparison between two American-made compound coatings: Merckens (made by Cargill) vs. our very own Sweet Shoppe.

While both brands have earned recognition by industry leading treat makers, today we will focus on comparing their most loved qualities & how they stack up against each other. 

So, let's embark on this delectable journey!

 

Texture & Consistency: The texture & consistency of compound coatings will significantly impact the final product you create. Merckens & Sweet Shoppe both excel in this area, ensuring smooth & silky coatings. They both possess a creamy texture, making them easy to melt & work with, allowing for smooth & even coverage. 

 

Flavor Variety: One of the delightful aspects of compound coatings is the range of flavors they offer. Merckens & Sweet Shoppe both understand the importance of diversity in taste & both brands provide a great selection. Merckens offers a classic assortment, including cocoa lite, cocoa dark, white  & super white. Comparably, Sweet Shoppe Compound Coatings come in Ultra White, White, Milk & Dark. Though the flavors may be similar, our Sweet Shoppe line has a less sweet taste than Merckens. Treat makers love this subtle difference in Sweet Shoppe as it allows their treats & baked goods to shine through the layer of compound coating. 


Melting: Melting compound coatings can be a crucial step in confectionery making. Both Merckens & Sweet Shoppe aim to simplify this process, allowing for a smooth & simple melting experience. Merckens compound coatings melt evenly, ensuring a consistent finish, while Sweet Shoppe Compound Coatings provide a similar melting experience, with a perceived slight advantage in terms of ease & convenience. The best part? No tempering required with either brand! 


Versatility: The versatility of compound coatings is a vital aspect for confectioners & culinary enthusiasts alike. Merckens & Sweet Shoppe both offer coatings that adapt well to various applications. Whether you're dipping fruit, coating cookies, or creating intricate designs, both brands will deliver exceptional results. For over 100 years, Merckens has established itself as a reliable choice for a wide range of applications. We’re so proud to have our very own Sweet Shoppe line competing with an industry leading product such as Merckens. 


Quality & Ingredients: The quality of the ingredients used in compound coatings contributes to the overall taste & satisfaction of the final product. Merckens & Sweet Shoppe both prioritize using high-quality ingredients in their coatings. Merckens has built a reputation for consistency & reliability, while Sweet Shoppe takes pride in sourcing premium quality ingredients, which lends our compound coatings a subtle edge in terms of taste & overall quality.

Price: Comparing the pricing of Merckens & Sweet Shoppe compound coatings reveals a notable advantage for Sweet Shoppe without compromising quality. Sweet Shoppe's pricing is lower compared to Merckens, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious confectioners. Despite the lower price point, Sweet Shoppe maintains an exceptional level of quality, ensuring that you can create delectable treats without breaking the bank. The affordability of Sweet Shoppe compound coatings makes them an excellent choice for both professional bakers & home enthusiasts seeking high-quality products at a more accessible price.

Both brands offer exceptional products that cater to the needs of confectioners & home bakers. Merckens compound coatings boast a reliable & consistent performance, while Sweet Shoppe compound coatings exhibit a slight advantage in terms of finesse, flavor variety & visual appeal. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on personal preferences & specific application requirements. 

Whichever brand you opt for, rest assured that your confectionery creations will be elevated to new heights of deliciousness. Happy baking!

Celebrate World Chocolate Day with Stover & Company!

Welcome to Stover & Company, your ultimate destination for all things chocolate

Today, we celebrate World Chocolate Day (July 7th) & invite you to indulge in the rich history, enticing trends, & irresistible offerings that make chocolate one of the world's most beloved treats.

Chocolate History:
The history of chocolate dates back over 3,000 years, to the ancient civilizations of the Mayans & Aztecs who first cultivated the cacao tree. Adored for both its mythical & spiritual qualities, chocolate was often reserved for royalty & used in religious ceremonies. Spanish conquistadors introduced chocolate to Europe, where it quickly gained popularity & evolved over time into the indulgent delight we know & love today.

Chocolate Trends:
Recently, chocolate has experienced an exciting evolution with innovative trends captivating the taste buds of chocolate lovers worldwide! In recent years, chocolatiers have wholeheartedly embraced the bean-to-bar movement, elevating it to new heights of mastery. With meticulous attention to detail, they have honed their skills in sourcing the finest cocoa beans & carefully overseeing every step of the chocolate making process. This dedication has resulted in an unparalleled level of control, allowing chocolatiers to create distinct flavor profiles that showcase the true essence of the beans & captivate chocolate connoisseurs worldwide. 

Stover & Company's Chocolate Collection:
At Stover & Company, we pride ourselves on offering an extensive selection of chocolates to cater to every chocolate lover's desires. From renowned national brands like Callebaut, Clasen, Guittard, Blommer & Cargill to our carefully curated exclusive lines - Sweet Shoppe & Eleven o 'one - we have something to satisfy every craving.

Whether you're a professional chocolatier or a passionate home baker, we have you covered. Our range includes blocks of luxurious couverture chocolate, ideal for creating decadent truffles & exquisite desserts. For those seeking convenience without compromising taste, our assortment of chocolate chips & compound coating wafers ensures you have the perfect ingredients for baking cookies, brownies, & more.

At Stover & Company, you can rely on the fact that the chocolate we carry represents exceptional quality and flavor. This enables you to elevate your culinary creations and experience the pure delight of chocolate.

To make World Chocolate Day even sweeter, Stover & Company is hosting a giveaway on social media! Head over to our Facebook & Instagram pages for a chance to win* a case of your choice from our Eleven o’one Chocolate Line!

*Full contest details can be found on the contest post. 

 

Happy World Chocolate Day!

 

 

Our Favorite Amaury Guichon Chocolate Sculptures

Chocolate has always been a favorite treat for people of all ages, but Amaury Guichon takes this indulgence to a whole new level. A renowned pastry chef & a true artist, Amaury Guichon has mesmerized the world with his jaw-dropping chocolate sculptures. 

Get ready to be amazed by these creations made of 100% chocolate!

The Chocolate Dragon:

 

Imagine a fierce dragon, not made of fire & scales, but entirely crafted from delicious chocolate. Amaury Guichon brought this fantasy to life with his mesmerizing chocolate dragon sculpture. With intricate details & a perfect balance of dark & milk chocolate, this masterpiece captured the imagination of chocolate enthusiasts worldwide. From the sharp claws to the majestic wings, every element of the dragon showcased Guichon's incredible craftsmanship.

The Chocolate Statue of Liberty:

 

Amaury Guichon's incredible creation, a chocolate Statue of Liberty, is a testament to his artistry & craftsmanship. Every detail, from the regal crown to the flowing robes, has been meticulously sculpted in rich, velvety chocolate. This edible masterpiece merges culinary art with the iconic symbol of freedom, delighting both the eyes & taste buds.

The Chocolate Harp:

 

For the music lovers & chocoholics, Amaury Guichon created a chocolate sculpture that was nothing short of a symphony for the taste buds. He crafted an astonishing chocolate harp, capturing every curve, string, & detail with his deft touch. This edible instrument not only delighted the eyes but also played a sweet melody on the palate. Guichon's creativity & skill transformed a simple musical instrument into a mouthwatering work of art.

The Chocolate Safari:

 

Embark on a delicious journey through the wild with Amaury Guichon's chocolate safari sculpture. From majestic elephants to graceful giraffes, Guichon sculpted an entire menagerie of chocolate animals. The lifelike details, such as the wrinkled skin of the elephants & the long necks of the giraffes, made it hard to believe that these creatures were made entirely of chocolate. This incredible masterpiece allowed chocolate lovers to experience a taste of the African savannah.

The Chocolate Motorcycle:

 

Crafted entirely from luscious chocolate, this edible work of art captures the essence of a sleek & powerful motorcycle. Every intricate detail, from the wheels to the handlebars, has been meticulously sculpted with precision & finesse.

Amaury Guichon's chocolate sculptures are a testament to his unparalleled talent & creativity. With his masterful skill, he transforms ordinary chocolate into breathtaking works of art that leave everyone in awe. From mythical creatures to iconic landmarks, Guichon's creations showcase his ability to bring imagination to life using the medium of chocolate. Whether you're a chocolate aficionado or simply appreciate the beauty of art, Guichon's sculptures are guaranteed to leave you inspired & craving a sweet bite of his edible masterpieces. Click here to videos of Amaury making these beautiful creations & more! 

Do you aspire to work this gracefully with chocolate? We all start somewhere! Take a look at our chocolate selection, at Stover & Company we cater to all different types of customers with different needs! From rich couverture chocolate to domestic & imported compound coatings, to cocoa butter & chocolate liquor, we have what you need to fulfill your chocolate dreams & hopefully make amazing works of art like Guichon!

 

 

Beat the Summer Heat with our Protective Cold Packaging Add On

As summer approaches & temperatures start to soar, ordering chocolate for your business comes with one major challenge—keeping it from melting during transit. 

At Stover & Company, we strive to deliver a perfect chocolate experience to our customers, regardless of the current weather conditions. That's why we offer our Protective Cold Packaging Add-on option to protect your order.

 

Read more

Am I using real chocolate?

Have you ever wondered if the chocolate you are using is real chocolate or not? This is a common question that we hear a lot. 


There are two different types of chocolate: Couverture Chocolate (aka real chocolate) & Compound Chocolate (better known as candy melts or chocolate coating).

Read more

How to temper chocolate

Ready to dive into the couverture chocolate world, but overwhelmed by the idea of tempering? We’re here to help! 

Similar to baking, when tempering you must follow precise steps in order to achieve optimal results. We cannot emphasize this enough. There is no room for error when it comes to tempering chocolate.

We’ve put together a set of simple instructions to help you learn to temper the easy way!

 

Read more

Upgrade your compound coatings, try Eleven o’one Deluxe!

Add copy describing image

As a chocolate distributor, we strive to carry a wide range of products that you may need for your business. We carry your favorite brands like Callebaut & Merckens, but we also have two of our very own exclusive product lines. Eleven o’one is our line of carefully curated imported compound & couverture chocolates.

Read more

connect with us