Chocolate has always been a popular treat, but when it comes in whimsical and creative shapes, a whole new level of joy is added to the experience. Novelty chocolates are more than just confections; they are tiny works of art that add interest to a chocolate gift, and bring happiness to the recipient’s day. So if you’re seeking out smiles, opt for novelty chocolates!
In this exploration of novelty chocolates, we'll dive into the unique shapes and designs that make them so special, discover how to create your own novelty chocolate gifts, and look at the world of flavours that await in every bite. We'll also highlight some of the wonderful novelty chocolates available at the Chocolate Box, a renowned source of sweet surprises.
Unique Shapes and Designs in Novelty Chocolates
One of the most enchanting aspects of novelty chocolates is their imaginative shapes and designs. Chocolatiers around the world are constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity to craft chocolates that resemble everything from brains and robots, to famous landmarks! Chocolate is a malleable medium, and pretty much any shape can be made using it, so it’s no surprise that chocolate makers occasionally get the itch to make something unusual!
In addition to uniquely moulded chocolate, chocolates may fall under the ‘novelty’ category by being wrapped in colourful and textured wrapping papers or foil, or being boxed in a quirky way. Other foodstuffs dipped in chocolate might also fall into the ‘novelty’ chocolate category. Think chocolate-dipped pretzels, chips or marshmallows. There are also tins with charming designs,filled with chocolates or biscuits, that are a popular gift in the novelty category.
At the Chocolate Box, you can find an array of whimsical creations that add a touch of magic to your chocolate experience. Whether it’s to show someone special you love them, or to entertain your kids with some cute rewards or for stocking fillers, these novelty chocolate options will be certain to please. Here are some examples:
- Giant Pencils: These playful chocolates are perfect for the young (and young at heart). They capture the essence of a classic schoolyard item in delicious chocolate form.
- Belgian Sparkles: These chocolates dazzle with a creamy texture and fine, crunchy sparkles, making them a feast for both the eyes and the palate.
- Chocolate Sparkle Heart: A heart-shaped chocolate that not only tastes divine but also draws attention with its rainbow sparkles. The best way to demonstrate your affection for someone!
- Chocolate Fish: These fish-shaped chocolates are a delightful catch for any chocolate lover!
- Chocolate Sardine Box: A whimsical tin, filled with delectable chocolate-shaped sardines, each individually wrapped in shiny fish-pattern foil. Much tastier than the real thing!
- Wrapped hollow Beetles, Frogs and Bees: Add a touch of whimsy at special occasions with these chocolate critters (with legs and wings), that come wrapped in shiny colourful foil.
- Chocolate Aeroplane: Embark on a chocolatey journey with these plane-shaped treats. A perfect gift for those kids (or adults) who just love planes.
- Chocolate Gold Coins: Create a treasure hunt with these gold foil-wrapped chocolate coins—a great way to make snacking an adventure!
- Chocolate Bilbies: During Easter (or any other time), delight in chocolate bilbies, a unique Australian twist on the traditional Easter bunny.
- Chocolate Frogs: Jump into the world of chocolate frogs, a timeless favourite that combines fun and flavour in every bite.
- Chocolate Farm Yard Friends: These charming farm animal chocolates bring the barnyard to your taste buds. Choose from dogs or cows with adorable faces. They’re almost too cute to eat!
- Novelty Chocolates for Adults: The Chocolate Box also offers novelty chocolates tailored for adults, including chocolate love Hearts, golf balls, medals, champagne bottles, cigars and more. They are the perfect gift for special occasions and rewards.
- Dogs in Jumpers Embossed Tin: Imported from the UK, this delightful tin is filled with Ginger and Lemon Cookies and Chocolate Chip and Clotted Cream Shortbread Biscuits. Dog lovers will adore the pictures of ‘dogs in jumpers’, and they score a gorgeous tin they can keep forever!
How to Create Your Own Custom Novelty Chocolate Gifts
If you're feeling crafty and want to add a personal touch to your chocolate gifts, consider creating custom novelty chocolates. Here's how you can get started:
- Chocolate Moulds: Invest in chocolate moulds with your desired shapes. These are easily found online, or else are available at cake decorating supplies stores.
- High-Quality Chocolate: Use high-quality chocolate from the Chocolate Box for the best results. This will result in a delicious and smooth finish to your novelty chocolates!
- Melting and Tempering: Melt the chocolate gently and temper it to achieve a glossy finish and a satisfying snap when you bite into your creations. Look to YouTube for tips on how not to overheat your chocolate!
- Flavour Infusions: Experiment with flavour infusions by adding spices, extracts, or zest, nuts or shredded coconut to your chocolate before moulding. This adds a delightful twist to your novelty chocolates. You can even add things like dried edible flower petals to the surface of your chocolate, for added visual appeal.
- Packaging and Presentation: Consider how you can creatively package and present your custom chocolates so that they look extra enticing. These days it’s easy to order coloured foil and paper online in a range of great colours. Alternatively, if you’re making novelty chocolates as a gift, the Chocolate Box offers beautiful packaging options including customised ribbon, stickers, swing tags and tissue paper.
- Embrace the theme: If you’re making novelty chocolates for a special event such as Christmas or Halloween, think about how you can incorporate the theme into your novelty packaging. For example, for Halloween, you might find pumpkin-coloured paper to wrap individual chocolates and place spider stickers on the outside of each. For Christmas, look for Christmas tree-shaped chocolate moulds, wrap your chocs in green foil, and add colourful diamante stickers to the outside to make some very on-theme gifts!
A World of Flavour in Every Novelty Chocolate Bite
Beyond their charming shapes, novelty chocolates offer a world of flavours to explore. Chocolatiers infuse their creations with various ingredients to surprise and delight your taste buds. Here are some flavour experiences you can expect:
- Fruit Infusions: Novelty chocolates often feature fruit flavours like raspberry, orange, or passion fruit. The combination of sweet chocolate and tangy fruit creates a harmonious balance.
- Nutty Delights: Nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios and coconut are commonly paired with chocolate to add a satisfying crunch and a rich, nutty flavour.
- Caramel and Toffee: Creamy caramel or toffee centres, available in various forms are encased in chocolate shells, providing a contrast of textures and a caramelised sweetness.
- Spice and Heat: For those who enjoy a bit of excitement, some novelty chocolates incorporate spices like chilli or cinnamon, offering a delightful kick of heat.
- Liquor-Infused: Some novelty chocolates contain a touch of alcohol, such as liqueurs or brandy, adding depth and complexity to the flavour profile (for adults only).
In conclusion, novelty chocolates are a delightful way to add fun and whimsy to the gifting experience. Whether you're drawn to their unique shapes or their colourful wrapping, you want to create custom chocolate gifts, or you just love to savour the diverse flavours and textures, these chocolates are a celebration of creativity and taste. So, indulge in the world of novelty chocolates from the Chocolate Box and embark on a delightful adventure of shapes, flavours, and imagination.