Chocolate and food blog

How to Draw Inspiration from Social Media While Keeping Your Chocolate Content Authentic and Engaging

"Navigate through our unique blend of culinary art and social engagement. From bean-to-bar journeys to chocolate-infused social media insights, discover how Coeur de Xocolat merges tradition with innovation."

DIY Deodorising Cocoa Butter at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to deodorize cocoa butter at home with our straightforward guide, perfect for both culinary and cosmetic applications.

Unforgettable Togo: A Culinary Journey with Cocoa Pod Innovations and an Honour for Services to Togolese Cuisine

Explore the transformative journey in Togo—from cocoa pod innovations to culinary accolades

The Molinillo: A Whisk with a Story and a Legacy

"Explore the rich history and craft of the molinillo—a traditional whisk that transforms hot chocolate into a frothy, flavourful experience rooted in Mexican and Colombian culture."

Three Last-Minute Microwave Dessert Ideas to Wow Your Dinner Party Guests

“Explore our collection of quick, easy, and indulgent chocolate dessert recipes. Perfect for last-minute cravings or dinner parties, these microwave-friendly treats deliver rich flavors with minimal effort.”

What Has Pasteur Got to Do with Cocoa?

"Navigate through our sections to explore the rich history, intricate science, and artful craftsmanship behind the world's finest chocolate. Discover interactive guides, in-depth articles, and exclusive content that unveils the secrets of cocoa fermentation and chocolate making, inspired by pioneers like Louis Pasteur."

This description provides a clear invitation for users to explore various educational and engaging content related to chocolate, emphasizing both historical and scientific perspectives.

The Sweet History of Fudge: From Accidental Creation to Global Favourite

"The Sweet History of Fudge: From Accidental Invention to Global Treat"
Explore how fudge was accidentally created, became a worldwide favourite, and discover the role of Cornish Cream Fudge. Includes a quick and easy microwave fudge recipe to try at home!

Business Traveller’s Guide to Togo: What You Need to Know Before You Go!

"Navigate your business journey in Togo with our comprehensive guide. Discover key insights into Togo's business landscape, essential travel tips, and cultural etiquette to ensure a successful and enriching experience in this dynamic West African nation."

South Yorkshire’s Sweet Legacy

Celebrate South Yorkshire’s rich confectionery heritage at the Yorkshire Chocolate Festival! Dive into a world of indulgence with artisan chocolatiers, interactive workshops, and delicious treats, all inspired by local icons like Thorntons and author Joanne Harris. Join us for a day of chocolate, community, and fun!

What is Cocoa Certification?

Explore the importance of cocoa certification in promoting ethical and sustainable cocoa production. Learn how certifications like Fairtrade, Rainforest Alliance, and UTZ impact cocoa farming practices, protect the environment, and improve livelihoods for farmers, helping create a more responsible chocolate industry.

Chocolate Adventures in Donegal: A Weekend at Arnold’s Hotel

Indulge in an unforgettable chocolate journey at Arnold’s Hotel in the heart of Dunfanaghy, County Donegal, along the scenic Wild Atlantic Way. Join award-winning chocolatier David Greenwood-Haigh and renowned pastry chef Phil Matthews for a weekend brimming with chocolate tasting, hands-on truffle making, and Fairtrade chocolate lollipop crafting for kids. Savour a cocoa-infused dinner, luxurious Chocotinis, and discover the stories behind chocolates from around the world. Ideal for chocolate lovers of all ages, this is a rich, sensory adventure you won’t want to miss. Book your sweet escape at Arnold’s Hotel and experience chocolate like never before!

Chocolate making in Togo

Explore our journey to create organic, bean-to-bar chocolate in Togo. From sustainable cocoa farming and traditional techniques to community collaboration and eco-tourism, discover how we craft chocolate that celebrates Togo’s heritage and promotes environmental stewardship.

Top 10 Must-Visit Chocolate Shops in Ireland for a Sweet Adventure

Embark on a delectable journey through Ireland's top chocolate shops, featuring artisan treats, interactive workshops, and unique Irish flavours from coast to coast

Exploring Ireland's rich chocolate Heritage: from bean to bar

“Uncover Ireland’s unique chocolate heritage, featuring local artisans, sustainable practices, and exceptional flavours.”

Sustainable Chocolate: How Fairly Trading, Fairtrade, and Buying Local Sugar Shape the Future of Chocolate-Making

Sustainable Chocolate: Exploring Fairtrade, Fairly Trading, and Local Sourcing to Build a Greener Future in Chocolate-Making

Developing Chocolate Cocktail Recipes Using Cocoa Pod Juice and Vinegar

Chocolate Cocktails with Cocoa Pod Juice & Vinegar:

Explore a new frontier in cocktail-making by combining the tropical sweetness of cocoa pod juice with the tangy balance of cocoa vinegar. From refreshing sours to rich, chocolate-infused creations, these unique ingredients add complexity and sustainability to your mixology experience.

The Evolution of Cacao Ceremonies: From Ancient Ritual to Modern Wellness

When we think of cacao today, we often imagine a warm cup of rich hot chocolate or luxurious bars of creamy chocolate. However, cacao’s story stretches far beyond this, rooted in the sacred practices of ancient Mesoamerican cultures. What’s interesting is that while cacao held ceremonial importance for thousands of years, the idea of the cacao ceremony as we understand it today is a much more modern concept.

Fairtrade Fortnight – A Celebration of Ethical Trade

Fairtrade Fortnight: Celebrating Ethical Trade & Sustainable Chocolate
Explore the impact of Fairtrade on cocoa farmers, ethical sourcing, and how you can support fair wages through your chocolate choices. Join the movement for a more sustainable future.

Does Terroir Impact Cocoa Flavour?

Discover how soil, climate, and altitude influence the unique flavours of cocoa. Explore the concept of terroir, its impact on chocolate, and how different regions contribute to the rich diversity of flavours in every bar.

The Best Way to Melt Chocolate: Tips from a Chocolatier

"Learn the essential techniques for melting and tempering chocolate, including expert tips for achieving a smooth, glossy finish every time."

Cocoa travels to Fernando Po

In the heart of the 19th century, the world was buzzing with tales of a new crop that promised wealth and prosperity: cocoa.

Far across the Atlantic, in the rich, fertile soils of the Amazon Basin, this "food of the gods" had long been cherished.

But it wasn't until European explorers and colonists ventured into these lands that cocoa began its extraordinary journey to distant shores.

From Brazil to São Tomé: The Colonial Journey of Cocoa

Cocoa's history is as rich and complex as the aromas in the chocolate it eventually produces.

While many associate the origins of cocoa with the Olmecs, Mayans, and Aztecs of Central America, its spread to the islands off the coast of Africa, specifically São Tomé, is a fascinating chapter often overlooked.

Why become a brand ambassador

Becoming an ambassador for other brands can be beneficial for your brand, but it's important to carefully consider a few key factors:

Sweet Harmony: Exploring the Origins of Marmalade and its Perfect Pairing with Chocolate

The history of this beloved preserve can be traced back to the 16th century, when Portuguese sailors brought Seville oranges to Europe.

The word "marmalade" itself is derived from the Portuguese word "marmelada," meaning quince jam. Initially, marmalade was made from quinces, but as oranges became more readily available, they became the fruit of choice for this delectable spread.

Inclusions: Adding Value, Minimising Cocoa Dependency

Inclusions, those delightful surprises nestled within the chocolate, offer a versatile canvas for innovation. By incorporating nuts, dried fruits, fudge, and other delectable ingredients, chocolatiers can create unique flavour profiles that excite our taste buds and add texture without relying solely on chocolate.

Vinegar on the Cocoa Farm

As I continue my journey deeper into cocoa cultivation i find something that might just pique your curiosity: the utilisation of vinegar on the cocoa farm.

As we look into this intriguing topic, we'll uncover the various ways in which cocoa vinegar can be a valuable ally in nurturing cocoa trees and ensuring a bountiful harvest.

The Role of Sonic Symphony in Taste Perception

In the pursuit of crafting chocolate experiences that transcend the ordinary, we often explore innovative techniques to enhance taste perception.

One such frontier gaining traction in the world of chocolate is the integration of the sonic symphony – we know from my earlier post that harnessing the power of sound to elevate the enjoyment of chocolate tasting is important. In this article, we unwrap to discover the fascinating realm of sonic symphony and its potential to redefine the way we perceive and appreciate chocolate.

Homeschooling Chocolate Workshops

In today's dynamic educational landscape, homeschooling offers unparalleled flexibility and customisation. At Coeur de Xocolat, we believe that learning should be as enjoyable as it is enlightening

Tray fermentation of cocoa beans

The fermentation of cocoa beans is a crucial step in unlocking the full flavour potential of chocolate.

Cabbage Surplus: A Pikliz Revelation with Cocoa Vinegar

In Ghana fields overflow with cabbage and market prices dip, and there lies an opportunity for culinary innovation.