All chocolate, whether it is white chocolate, dark chocolate, or milk chocolate, starts out in a cacao pod.
All chocolate, whether it is white chocolate, dark chocolate, or milk chocolate, starts out in a cacao pod. Different types of cacao grow throughout the world; depending on the type and origins, they produce different chocolate flavor profiles. The cacao pods are harvested from trees, and the fermentation process starts as soon as the pods are harvested.
Fermentation
The process of fermenting the cacao beans can take anywhere from three to eight days, depending on the conditions and type of cacao. Fermenting the cacao makes it less bitter, so the chocolate it is used to make tastes better. Cacao tends to do best when it is allowed to dry in the sun, but some manufacturers prefer to process it mechanically.
Storage and Shipping
There are a lot of variables in the shipping process that can create differences in the flavor of the chocolate. Lots of care must be taken to preserve the integrity of the flavor in order to ensure the quality of the finished chocolate. The cacao beans should be kept cool and dry to avoid issues arising from heat and moisture.
Roasting the Beans
Once the beans get to the chocolate maker, they are roasted and shelled. Every chocolate maker has a different way of doing this, which is one reason different brands tend to be so wildly different. The roasted beans are broken up into smaller nibs and then blended into a paste that resembles the viscosity of thick peanut butter. This substance is known as “chocolate liquor.”
When the Magic Happens
Once the chocolate maker has the chocolate liquor mixture, they can begin to make the chocolate for the treats. The liquor is blended with the chocolate maker’s special blend of sugar, milk, and other ingredients, and tempered to make the delicious chocolate you know and love.
A Wide Selection of Chocolate Treats from Wockenfuss Candies
Head to WockenfussCandies.com and browse our wide selection of chocolates and candies; we promise you will not be disappointed! Wockenfuss Candies is one of the oldest candy makers in Baltimore. We opened our doors in 1915 and have proudly served the people of Baltimore ever since. If you have any questions about our Wide Selection of Chocolates, please contact Wockenfuss Candies by calling 1-800-296-4414 or email info@Wockenfusscandies.com. When you’re not savoring our sweets, stay satisfied by following us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, and Pinterest!