Recommendations for Chocolate Boxes We Enjoyed
Uzma Chocolat’s Signature Exotic Box – $49
Originating from Chicago, Uzma Chocolat’s Signature Exotic Box brings vibrant South Asian flavors to the forefront. Although it arrived after our January tasting panel, it showcased an impressive range of halal chocolate flavors. The box features an array of confections including a distinctly intense ginger bonbon and a date-plum “khajoor” that offers a delightful mix of texture and rich flavor. Delicate tea notes from lapsang and assam enhance the experience further.
Learn more about this chocolate box here.
Lily & Sparrow’s Bonbons – $45
This North Jersey chocolatier, founded recently, left a favorable impression on our tasting panel members. The standout element is Amanda Sanabria’s skill in producing beautifully intense fruit flavors, featuring selections like passionfruit and lemon pistachio. While perhaps not as intricate as offerings from more established chocolatiers, the bold fruit infusions position Lily & Sparrow as a brand to watch closely in the chocolate scene.
Discover more about their bonbons here.
AndSons 24-Piece Chocolate Box – $75
A product of a Beverly Hills legacy chocolatier, AndSons presents a visually stunning box featuring both glossy bonbons and chocolate-dipped squares. Highlights include vivid flavors like passionfruit, orange, and guava, alongside textured treats inspired by speculoos. While it does not scream memorability, the exquisite presentation and delightful taste ensure it’s a welcome gift. The flavors are further enhanced when paired with coffee from Atlas Coffee Club.
Check out this box here.
United Flavors 24-Piece Chocolatier’s Selection – $89
Though this box was unable to be evaluated by the full tasting panel due to its late arrival, it remains memorable for its exceptional vanilla soufflé square, noted for its airy, cloud-like texture. In addition, the molded bonbons offer visual appeal, although they might not exhibit the complexity found in selections from established houses like Melissa Coppel.
Explore this selection here.
Eclat 16-Piece Signature Assortment – $48
Eclat, well-regarded among culinary circles, offers a variety of inventive chocolate creations. With notable flavors often inspired by global cuisines, the signature assortment stands out for showcasing bold combinations. However, this particular collection emphasized classic flavors such as Sichuan and Aleppo pepper, making it a unique choice for adventurous palates.
Learn more about Eclat here.
Chocolate Boxes to Approach with Caution
Compartés’ 20-Piece Signature Truffles – $59
While widely recognized for their innovative candy bars featuring eclectic flavors like doughnuts and coffee, the truffles did not leave the same impactful impression. The beautifully packaged truffles lacked depth in flavor compared to the brand’s other well-received products, making them less compelling for those seeking a premium chocolate experience.
Read more about Compartés here.
Forté’s 24-piece Signature Truffles – $110
Praised for their craftsmanship, Forté’s box unfortunately arrived in suboptimal condition, raising concerns about its handling either during manufacturing or shipping. The lack of consistency in quality is a critical factor to note for potential buyers.
Explore Forté’s offerings here.
Exquisito’s 24-Piece Artisan Collection
While highly recommended prior to tasting, this particular box’s quality was disappointing due to its unappealing condition upon arrival. This brings into question the reliability of both the product’s packaging and the consistency of quality control.
Learn more about Exquisito here.
Creo 24-Piece Signature Chocolate Collection – $84
Known for their tantalizing chocolate bars, Creo’s 24-piece collection is marked by a lack of cohesive flavors and textures. While the individual creations might excel, the overall experience fails to meet expectations given its premium price point.
Discover Creo’s collection here.