Pumpkin Spice Everything: How to Make Pumpkin Spice Pretzel Bites with Sweet Shoppe Wafers
- Oct 8, 2025


We all know that Sweet Shoppe Melting Wafers are perfect for dipping, drizzling, & molding, but did you know you can use our melting wafers to make truffles, ganache, & more?
These No-Bake Cheesecake Truffle Bites (without cream cheese!) are rich, creamy, & taste just like classic cheesecake frosting, without the effort. With the smooth texture & slightly softer set of our Sweet Shoppe Cream Cheese Melting Wafers, this recipe is perfect for cottage bakers who are unable to use cream cheese in their treats or home bakers looking for an easy, crowd-pleasing summer snack.
Whether you serve them at a summer picnic or keep them chilled for snacking while you work from home, these cheesecake truffle bites are a simple way to impress with minimal effort.

No-Bake Cheesecake Truffle Bites
Ingredients:
1 bag (2 lbs) Sweet Shoppe Cream Cheese Melting Wafers
½ cup crushed graham crackers or vanilla sandwich cookies
Optional toppings: sprinkles, crushed nuts, or sea salt
Parchment paper & baking sheet
Instructions:
Melt the full 2 lb bag of Sweet Shoppe Cream Cheese Melting Wafers in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until smooth and fully melted.
If desired, stir in up to ½ cup of crushed graham crackers or cookie crumbs for a little added crunch & flavor.
Let the mixture cool slightly (about 3–5 minutes), then scoop into small mounds using a cookie scoop or spoon. Drop each one onto a parchment-lined tray.
Place the tray in the fridge or freezer for 5–10 minutes to help them set. These wafers have a softer set, so chilling helps them hold their shape while staying creamy inside.
Optional: Drizzle with extra melted wafers or top with crushed nuts, sprinkles, or sea salt for a decorative finish.
Why Use Sweet Shoppe Cream Cheese Melting Wafers?
Unlike traditional white chocolate or candy coatings, our Cream Cheese Melting Wafers offer a smooth, slightly tangy flavor that mimics classic cream cheese frosting—no tempering needed! This unique formula has a softer finish, making it ideal for creamy no-bake treats, dessert fillings, & cheesecake-inspired creations.
With just one bag, you can create dozens of rich, flavorful bites that look impressive & taste even better.
Try this quick, crowd-pleasing recipe & let us know how it turns out! Share your photos and treats with us in the Stover’s Confection Connection Facebook group—we can’t wait to see what you create!
We all know that Sweet Shoppe Melting Wafers are perfect for dipping, drizzling, & coating, but did you know they can also replace chocolate chips or chunks in your favorite baked goods?
Brittany from Sugar Cove Sweets took things up a notch with these Giant Double Chocolate Dark Raspberry Truffle Cookies, featuring our Sweet Shoppe Dark Raspberry Truffle Flavored Melting Wafers for a rich, fruity twist on a classic chocolate cookie.
These cookies are thick, fudgy, & packed with chocolatey goodness with bits of melty Dark Raspberry Truffle Wafers in every bite. Whether you're a home baker or a professional baker, this recipe is a must try!

Giant Double Chocolate Dark Raspberry Truffle Cookies
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Why Use Sweet Shoppe Melting Wafers Instead of Chocolate Chips?
Unlike traditional chocolate chips, our flavored melting wafers bring extra depth to your baked goods! These Sweet Shoppe Dark Raspberry Truffle Flavored Melting Wafers add a luxurious berry-infused dark chocolate flavor, creating a gourmet cookie experience without the hassle!
Whether in cookies, brownies, or even muffins, these wafers melt beautifully & deliver consistent, bold flavors in every bite!
Try this decadent double chocolate cookie recipe & let us know how it turns out! Share your photos & baking experiences in our Stover’s Confection Connection Facebook group—we can’t wait to see your delicious creations!
Candy clay is a versatile, fun, & delicious alternative to fondant. Most people know it as modeling chocolate, but since we are using melting wafers instead of couverture chocolate, we’re calling this candy clay!

Whether you’re decorating cakes, molding figures, or creating edible sculptures, candy clay gives you the flexibility & smooth texture you need. The best part? It’s easy to make using just two ingredients: Sweet Shoppe Melting Wafers & light corn syrup! Check out our recipe video here & follow the simple guide below to whip up your own batch of candy clay.
Ingredients
• 16 oz Sweet Shoppe Melting Wafers (available in various colors & flavors!)
• 3.5 oz light corn syrup
Instructions
1. Melt your Sweet Shoppe Melting Wafers
Begin by melting your Sweet Shoppe Melting Wafers in the microwave in 20-30 second intervals, stirring between each round to ensure the chocolate melts smoothly without burning.
2. Warm your Corn Syrup
Next, gently warm your light corn syrup in the microwave for about 15-30 seconds. Make sure not to overheat it! If you want to color your candy clay, now is the time to add liquid coloring. You can either:
• Add oil based color to the melted wafers.
• Mix liquid gels into the warm corn syrup before combining.
Pro Tip: If you’re using white melting wafers, feel free to add liquid colors directly to the syrup as it doesn’t need to be oil-based.
3. Combine the Ingredients
Pour the warmed corn syrup into your Sweet Shoppe melted wafers. Use a silicone spatula to fold the mixture together. Be gentle during this step; you want to mix until it resembles soft-serve ice cream but avoid overmixing. If you overwork it, the oil may begin to separate from the mixture.
4. Let it rest
Once mixed, pour the candy clay onto a sheet of plastic wrap. Cover it tightly & let it rest at room temperature until it firms up but remains pliable. Depending on the room temperature, this can take up to a few hours.
5. Knead Until Smooth
When the clay is firm but workable, knead it with your hands until it becomes smooth & pliable. If you overwork it & feel the oil separating, let it rest & cool before kneading again. Rewrap the finished candy clay in plastic wrap & let it harden completely before using it.
6. Store Properly
To store your candy clay, wrap it in plastic wrap & then place it in a ziplock bag. Check the expiration dates of both your melting wafers & corn syrup, & use the closest date as your storage guideline.
Pro Tips:
• Avoid Overmixing: If you overmix the melted wafers & corn syrup, the oil in the mixture may separate. Stir gently to maintain the right consistency.
• Reheating: After the candy clay has set completely, it will be stiff. You can warm it for 5 seconds at a time in the microwave to help soften it up for use.
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Uses for Candy Clay
Candy clay is a fantastic alternative to fondant for cake decorating.
You can:
• Roll & cut shapes for cupcakes & cakes.
• Mold & sculpt figures & flowers for detailed cake toppers.
• Use it as a covering for cakes or cookies just like fondant.
Get creative, experiment with different colors & flavors with our new Sweet Shoppe Fall Flavored Melting Wafers (Salted Caramel, Pumpkin Spice & S’mores, yum!) & have fun making your own beautiful edible decorations! Share your creations with us by tagging us @stoverandcompany or in our Facebook group: Stover’s Confection Connection.
Be sure to check out our Youtube channel for more ideas & recipes!
Indulge in the ultimate chocolate & caramel lover's dream with this decadent Chocolate Cupcake recipe topped with a luscious Salted Caramel Ganache! We’ll be making the ganache from scratch using our our *NEW* Sweet Shoppe Salted Caramel Melting Wafers!
Moist chocolate cake topped with a decadent salted caramel ganache to create a dessert that's sure to impress!
Let's dive into the recipe & create this chocolate masterpiece!
Ingredients:
For the Chocolate Cupcakes:
For the Salted Caramel Ganache:
Instructions:
For the Chocolate Cupcakes:
For the Salted Caramel Ganache:
Decorate:
Perfect for special occasions or simply satisfying your chocolate cravings, these cupcakes are sure to be showstoppers!
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!


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:
Instructions:
Pro Tips:
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!


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!
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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!




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!