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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!

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!

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!

Ah, summertime—the perfect season to enjoy the sunshine, embrace relaxation, & treat yourself to delightful, mouthwatering treats. When it comes to satisfying your sweet tooth during the warmer months, nothing quite beats the combination of chocolate, cookies, ice cream & cake!

Whether you prefer a chocolate treat, a refreshing ice cream or bake a seasonal cake, don't resist the temptation—embrace the joy of summer indulgence & let your taste buds dance with delight!

Coloring compound coatings can be a fun & creative way to add visual appeal to your sweet creations. Whether you're a professional baker or an avid home treat maker, working with compound coatings, such as our Sweet Shoppe line, allows you to experiment with different colors & designs for your homemade treats. 

Achieving the desired colored chocolate results requires a certain level of knowledge & skill. Let’s explore the top mistakes that you’ll want to avoid when coloring compound coatings. 

1. DO NOT use Water-Based Food Coloring:
   
   The most common mistake when coloring compound coatings is using a water-based food coloring. Compound coatings are typically made with fat-based ingredients so water-based, or gel-based, food colorings can disrupt the texture & consistency of the coating. Be sure to purchase an oil-based or powdered food coloring specifically formulated for use with compound coatings & chocolate. Oil-based coloring agents (sometimes called Candy Colors) blend seamlessly with the fats in the compound coating, resulting in a smooth & glossy finish.
   
   Sweet Shoppe x Chocolate Chameleon Candy Colors & Colourmill are two of our favorite brands of oil-based candy colors!
   
   
2. Be Sure to Shake Coloring Well:
   
   It is particularly important to shake your oil-based candy colors well before use. These types of coloring agents often contain separate layers of pigments & oil. The pigments often settle to the bottom of the bottle over time, while the oil rises to the top. By shaking the bottle vigorously, you effectively blend the two components, creating a homogeneous color mixture that will allow you to create the vivid chocolate & candy colors that you desire.
   
   
3. DO NOT Overheat Your Compound Coating:
   
   

   Because compound coatings are made of sugar & oil, they are delicate & sensitive to heat. Overheating your compound coatings can cause them to become lumpy & thick, or even burn. It's essential that you melt the compound coating slowly & gently to distribute the heat evenly. Avoid overheating your chocolate compound by using a thermometer to monitor the temperature & never exceeding the recommended melting temperature specified by the manufacturer; we like to keep ours below 90ºF.  By maintaining proper heat control, you'll preserve the quality & texture of your compound coating, resulting in better color absorption.
   
   Check out this video or this blog post on how we recommend melting our Sweet Shoppe Compound Coatings!
   
   

4. Always Test Colors:

   Before applying the candy coloring to your compound chocolate, we always recommend that you test the color on a small sample of compound. This step is especially important when working with new or unfamiliar coloring or when trying to achieve a very specific color. Apply a small amount of the coloring to a small amount of compound chocolate. Once well blended, add a small drop of colored coating onto a piece of parchment paper or a spare cookie to let it set. This allows you to evaluate the color accuracy & make any necessary adjustments before you begin a large treat order. Keep in mind that some candy colors may deepen or change slightly as the compound coating sets, so it's better to err on the side of caution & start with a lighter shade since you can always add more. Pink & purple are the most susceptible to fade with sun & UV light, so keep this in mind when deciding how deep you want your colors to be. 
   
   * PRO TIP: Colourmill’s line of candy coloring is made with a UV protectant formula to help your colors last longer! 

    

    

By avoiding these mistakes you'll be well on your way to achieving vibrant, colorful, professional-looking sweets with an enhanced presentation. 

So, grab some oil based candy colors & unleash your inner artist!

We have very knowledgeable culinary staff at Stover & Company. If you ever have any questions about coloring compound coatings, chocolate or any other product support inquiries, don’t hesitate to contact us at info@stovercompany.com. 

S'mores Cheesecake is the perfect dessert to bring to any summer gathering! With its creamy & indulgent cheesecake filling, gooey melted couverture chocolate, & crunchy graham cracker crust, this dessert is sure to be a crowd-pleaser from picnics to graduation parties. 

To make this decadent dessert, you’ll start by making a classic graham cracker crust. All you need for this is graham cracker crumbs, sugar & butter! Graham cracker crust is the perfect base for the cheesecake as there’s no pre-baking required PLUS it adds a crunchy texture that complements the creamy filling. 

The next step is to prepare the cheesecake filling by combining cream cheese, sugar, eggs, marshmallow flavoring & sour cream until you reach a smooth & creamy consistency. Pour the cheesecake mixture over the graham cracker crust & bake until it’s just set.

Once the cheesecake is baked, it’s time to add the star ingredient - melted Eleven o’one Fifty Five Semi-Sweet Couverture Chocolate!! Drizzle the smooth, rich chocolate over the top of your cheesecake, to create a beautiful & delicious pattern. 

PRO TIP: Sprinkle some graham cracker crumbs & mini marshmallows on top of the chocolate before it sets, to give your cheesecake that classic s'mores flavor & texture.

What you need:

• 8 inch springform pan
• Mixing bowl 
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups
• Stand mixer
• Spatula
• Baking or roasting pan
• Aluminum foil

Graham Cracker Crust:

• 12 graham crackers, pulsed in a food processor to make crumbs
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 6 tablespoons of melted butter

1. In a bowl, stir together the graham cracker crumbs, sugar & melted butter until well combined. When ready, it should look like coarse, wet sand. Use your hands or a large spoon to break up any big lumps in the mix. 
2. Pour the graham cracker mixture into an 8-in springform pan. With your hands or the flat side of a cup, gently press the crumbs into the bottom & sides of the pan. 
   PRO TIP: Don’t press too hard as this will yield a harder crust. 
3. Bake the crust for 10-15 minutes at 350°F then remove from the oven & set aside to properly cool. 

Marshmallow Cheesecake Filling:

• 2 ½ lbs of cream cheese at room temperature (5 8oz blocks)
• 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar
• ½ teaspoon of salt
• 4 eggs at room temperature
• 1 cup of sour cream at room temperature
• 2 teaspoon marshmallow flavoring (omit for a classic cheesecake)

1. Preheat the oven to 325°F.
2. Boil a kettle or pot of water.
3. Using an electric or stand mixer, whip the cream cheese until it becomes smooth & fluffy. 
4. Slowly add your sugar & salt while whipping.
5. Beat in eggs one at a time, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.
6. Add the sour cream & marshmallow flavoring & whip them together until well combined. 
7. Wrap the bottom of your 8 inch springform pan in foil. Make sure it's wrapped tightly around the bottom & sides. 
8. Pour in the cheesecake filling & gently tap the pan on the counter so any trapped air bubbles can rise to the top. 
9. Set the cheesecake pan in the middle of your baking or roasting pan & place inside your oven.
10. Before closing the oven door, pour in the boiling water into the roasting pan until it comes halfway up the cheesecake pan. (This is why you want to wrap the foil tightly, so no water seeps into the crust). 
11. Bake for 1 ½ hours. The center should be set even if the sides are not. Remove the cheesecake pan & let cool completely. 

S’mores Topping:

• 6 ounces of Eleven o’one Fifty Five Semi-Sweet Couverture Chocolate 
• 4 ounces heavy whipping cream
• Mini Marshmallows or dehydrated mini marshmallows
• Graham Cracker Crumbs

1. To make the ganache or chocolate drip, heat the cream on the stove until steam starts to rise. Be careful not to let it boil over. 
2. Place your couverture chocolate in a heat resistant bowl & pour the hot cream overtop of it ensuring the chocolate is fully submerged. Let it stand for about 5 minutes to allow the chocolate to melt. 
3. Whisk the cream & chocolate together until smooth. 
4. Pour the ganache mixture over your cheesecake & smooth with a spoon.
5. Top off with mini marshmallows & a light sprinkle of graham cracker crumbs. 
6. Chill overnight before serving for best results. 

Total Time: 2 hours.  
Makes one 8 inch cheesecake, serves 14 people. 

This Smores Cheesecake is perfect for summer BBQs, pool parties, baby showers or any occasion that calls for a delicious & indulgent dessert! The combination of decadent chocolate with the creamy & crunchy cheesecake is simply irresistible. Your guests will be begging for the recipe! 

Summer is here & it's time to indulge in all the vibrant flavors & colorful delights that the season has to offer! Whether you're hosting a tropical-themed Luau party or simply looking to add a pop of color to your summertime desserts, Stover & Company has you covered. 

Today we are showcasing our favorite summer products that will elevate your sweet treats to the next level. From luscious tropical fillings & toppings for cakes, to colorful sanding sugars & melting chocolates, get ready to embark on a summertime  journey for your taste buds!                     

Now’s your chance to embrace the tropical vibes & savor the sweetness of Summer with our favorite seasonal products! We hope you’ll share your delicious creations with us on any of our social media platforms: Instagram, Facebook, or our new Confection Connection Facebook group!

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.

Calling all confectionery enthusiasts & aspiring chocolatiers! The Retail Confectioners International (RCI) Annual Convention & Expo is just around the corner & we are so excited to announce that Stover & Company will be exhibiting for the first time ever! 

RCI’s annual events are like no other in the confectionery world. These events provide a unique platform for confectioners to connect, share ideas & explore new products coming to market. This year’s RCI convention will take place in Milwaukee, WI on June 13 & 14, 2023.  

Here are three reasons why we think you should attend:

1. Networking Opportunities: 
   The RCI Convention & Expo brings confectioners, chocolatiers, suppliers & industry experts from around the globe together in one place. This event is a melting pot of creative minds & passionate professionals who share a common love for confectionery (& let’s keep it real, CHOCOLATE!) RCI’s annual convention provides unparalleled networking opportunities where you can connect with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges & joys of the confectionery industry. 
2. Idea Sharing & Problem Solving: 
   The RCI Convention & Expo is a hub of creativity & innovation. Attend educational workshops, seminars, & demonstrations led by industry leaders to expand your skill set, learn new techniques, & discover fresh approaches to candy making. Engage in panel discussions, roundtable sessions, & forums where you can share your challenges & brainstorm solutions with industry peers. Collaborative problem-solving often leads to innovative breakthroughs!
3. Meet Stover & Company in Person:
   We’re making our debut at RCI & we can't wait to showcase our entire range of couverture & compound chocolates. Not only will we be showcasing our existing Eleven o’one & Sweet Shoppe catalog, those who attend the show will be the first to see BRAND NEW products we have in development! Our team has poured their hearts into creating a sweet experience for those who attend. PLUS booth visitors will be able to take advantage of our special RCI Convention pricing with Compound Coatings starting as low as $1.88 per pound!

We invite you to join us at RCI at no cost! Use promo code 2023AC for FREE admission to RCI’s 2- day Expo when you register online at www.retailconfectioners.org/annual. Offer expires Jun 9, 2023. Not redeemable on-site. 

So, mark your calendars & make sure to attend the 2023 RCI Convention & Expo. Be sure to stop by our booth #108 for FREE SAMPLES! 

We look forward to seeing you there!  

If you're in the chocolate business, you know how important it is to find a reliable & efficient chocolate provider. That's where a multiservice distributor like Stover & Company comes in. We offer a wide range of services, from small parcel sales & pallets of chocolate, to co-packing &  private labeling with custom packing! We have everything you need to provide your customers with a wide range of products. Stover & Company is your one-stop-shop, here to help you streamline your chocolate needs & improve your services & sales.