Autumn, a season of transition, is a time when nature paints the world in hues of gold, crimson, and amber. As the leaves gracefully descend, there's a certain cosy charm that fills the air. And what better way to complement this enchanting season than with the rich, indulgent embrace of chocolate?
Chocolate, with its complex flavour profile, is a versatile ingredient that perfectly captures the essence of autumn. Wouldn’t it be cool if chocolate followed the seasons? Imagine Spring Chocolate. Then again that idea might not work especially if you couldn’t get all chocolate flavours all year round. But, there’s something about Autumn that does make you think of Autumn Chocolate. Chocolate’s depth and warmth mirror the season's comforting qualities, making it the ideal indulgence as the days grow shorter. From the moment the first crisp leaves fall, there's a growing anticipation for the chocolatey delights that autumn brings.
One of the most beloved autumn chocolate treats is undoubtedly the hot chocolate. Thick, creamy, and laced with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, it's the ultimate comfort drink on a chilly evening. To elevate this classic, consider adding a touch of chili powder for a surprising kick or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent finish.
For those seeking a more substantial chocolate experience, chocolate truffles are an irresistible option. Encased in a velvety smooth shell, these little spheres of delight can be infused with a myriad of autumnal flavours. Imagine a truffle filled with salted caramel and apple, or perhaps a dark chocolate truffle with a heart of roasted hazelnut and pumpkin spice. The possibilities are endless.
FRIARS
Producing superb chocolates all year round but giving some wonderful autumn chocolate choices, Friars is a first choice for many chocolate searchers. Indeed, there can be few finer choices around.
Presenting a curated selection of our most popular chocolates. Take the tour of this superior range of autumn chocolate which showcases some of our best treats.
Autumn heralds some major annual celebrations and you can add to your own celebration with the likes of White Pumpkin, Spiced Biscuit and Irish Cream. Continuing with the theme,what about Caramel Pumpkin or a traditional Toffee Apple. Really great Halloween style chocolates. Also, when the fruits of the autumn are prevailing, why not wrap them in chocolate and give someone special a box of autumn chocolate to spread some warmth. In this great collection we include Maple Pecan and Caramelised Nut as well as Hazelnut. For something a little cuter than the norm search out the Praline Owl. If you simply like good chocolate then we have included Salted Caramel and a delicious Brownie. It has to be said, we do autumn chocolate pretty well.
Salted Caramel Chocolate Collection
There is something about both salted caramel and chocolate that appeals. Putting the two together was a master stroke. The smoothness and richness with a seasoning of salt combining to coat the taste buds and flatter the senses. An almost addictive autumn chocolate alliance which in this collection really comes to a fine and flattering crescendo ( if you can describe a chocolate that way) of decadence. You really should try these, with Milk Sea Salt, Dark Sea Salt, Cocoa Dusted, Salted Caramel Truffle there is a chocolate for all tastes in this box! In fact this collection contains eight individual classics to enjoy any time, but particularly on those autumnal evenings for that perfect ‘chill’ time.
KAKOA Iconic Vegan Hot Chocolate
Perhaps nothing defines the autumn chocolate experience like a hot chocolate drink. Giving an almost embracing warmth to the drinker. Rich chocolate flavour in a mug, nice. But don’t just stop with the addition of milk or whatever liquid you use. There are some great ways to vamp it up a little. If you are not vegan, blow the lid off with a bomb. One of our chocolate bombs that is. We do Dark, Milk and a Salted Caramel bomb so you can justify a mug of chocolate sorcery any time as the nights close in and darkness falls.
It’s dulling down, the temperature is cooling and you have your shoes off as you enjoy some of your TV faves with your feet up. Drink? A nice cup of coffee would be good you think. Then, you know what would go down really well right now with that coffee? Rich dark chocolate with a warm ginger centre. Superbly handmade, spicy ginger and 70% cocoa chocolates. Not sure which is going down better, the chocolates or the coffee but putting them together was class.
Chocolate bars, too, undergo a seasonal transformation. Autumn-inspired flavours. like sea salt caramel apple, pumpkin spice, and cranberry dark chocolate become the stars of the season. These bars are perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying as a solitary indulgence while curled up with a good book.
Beyond the traditional chocolate treats, there's a growing trend of incorporating chocolate into savoury dishes. Chocolate-infused chili, mole sauce, and even chocolate-rubbed steak are becoming increasingly popular. These unexpected combinations create a delightful contrast of flavours. and textures, making them perfect for adventurous food lovers.
For those with a sweet tooth, chocolate desserts take centre stage during autumn. Chocolate cakes, brownies, and pies are adorned with seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potato, and pear. These desserts are not only delicious but also visually appealing, making them perfect for entertaining guests.
But autumn chocolate is not just about indulging our taste buds. It's also about creating a sensory experience. The aroma of freshly baked chocolate chip cookies fills the home with warmth and invites loved ones to gather. The sound of crunching on a chocolate bar can be incredibly satisfying, and the smooth texture of melted chocolate on the palate is a pure delight.
As the days grow shorter and the nights become cooler, there's something undeniably comforting about indulging in chocolate. It's a small luxury that can elevate our mood and create lasting memories. So, this autumn, take some time to savour the simple pleasure of chocolate. Let its rich, complex flavours. transport you to a world of warmth and indulgence.
