Showing posts with label Chocolatier. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Chocolatier. Show all posts

Sunday, 12 October 2025

Why Maison Criollo Dubai Style Chocolate Truffles Make a Brilliant Stocking Filler

As the festive season rolls in, there’s always that scramble to find the perfect stocking fillers, something indulgent, stylish, thoughtful, and not ridiculously expensive. 

Enter Maison Criollo Dubai Style Chocolate Truffles (100g). 

Currently available via Home Bargains, these truffles are reduced from £6.99 to £2.99. That steep discount makes them stand out for all the right reasons.

Here are all the reasons why these truffles are a great pick to slip into a Christmas stocking this year:

1. Exceptional Value

Deep Discount: Originally priced at £6.99, the drop to £2.99 means you get high-end flavour and packaging for well under £3. That freedom lets you stretch your Christmas budget. 

Price per 100g: At £2.99/100g, this is excellent value relative to many other luxury or “viral” chocolate treats. You’re getting quality without paying premium prices. 

2. High-Quality, Luxurious Taste

“Dubai-style” flair: These truffles feature milk chocolate with a pistachio nut paste and a feuilletine centre—a combination of creamy, nutty and crunchy textures. That kind of flavour profile feels indulgent, exotic even, which makes it special. 

Yes, the people behind That's Christmas 365 visited Home Bargains on a recent trip to Stafford, the county town of Staffordshire and bought some of these truffles. Our verdict? Absolutely delicious! Though a visit to our nearest Home Bargains is now on the cards.

Good chocolate content: The product includes real chocolate, cocoa butter, pistachio, etc. For a treat, it delivers not just sweetness but depth. The feuilletine adds a delicate crunch that sets it apart from simpler chocolates. 

3. UK-Made Product

While the style is inspired by Middle-Eastern / Dubai flavour combos, these truffles are made in the UK—specifically by L’Artisan du Chocolat at The Long Barrow (TN24) under the Maison Criollo branding. 

 That means local jobs, smaller supply chains, usually better freshness and less risk of overseas shipping issues.

For those who like to gift something both indulgent and local, this ticks both boxes. It’s not just “imported exotic”, it’s British craftsmanship delivering something with that exotic flair.

4. Great Size and Presentation for Gift-giving

100g weight is just right: substantial enough to feel like a treat, small enough to tuck into a stocking without overwhelming it.

The packaging and branding (“Mahison Criollo”, “Dubai Style”, etc.) lend a sense of luxury, so it looks more special than just “another chocolate bar”.

5. The Surprise & Novelty Factor

“Dubai-style” chocolates / desserts (featuring pistachio paste / knafeh style elements, etc.) are very trendy at the moment. They’ve had lots of social media attention. Gifting something that feels current adds an element of excitement.

Most people will expect something standard like a Toblerone or chocolate box—these truffles are a bit different, which makes them more memorable.

6. Practical Aspects: Allergens, Portioning, Sharing

The product clearly lists allergens, etc., so even people with food sensitivities can check before gifting. (Always do so, of course.) 

100g is manageable: the recipient can enjoy some without feeling they need to eat the lot in one go; but also shareable if wanted.

7. Availability Through Home Bargains

Easy to find: Home Bargains is a widely present chain, so you’re more likely to be able to pick up a pack in person without needing premium shipping.

Discount retailer setting: Because it’s being sold in a discount retailer, expectations of overpaying are lower—and yet here you’re getting something that feels premium. That contrast works in your favour as a gift-giver: better perceived value.

Potential Drawbacks (so you can weigh them too)

If someone’s expecting very high-end chocolate (like artisan, single origin, etc.), this may seem more “luxury mass produced” than niche artisan.

Allergens: contains milk, pistachio, feuilletine (wheat, etc.) — so not suitable for all dietary needs.

Flavor preferences: pistachio and crunch aren’t everyone’s thing. If the gift recipient dislikes nuts or strong textures, this may not work.

All told, Maison Criollo Dubai Style Chocolate Truffles 100g make a superb stocking filler because you get a taste of indulgence, exotic flavour, UK quality and presentation—all without breaking the bank. And with the current price tag of £2.99 through Home Bargains, it’s a genuinely excellent deal. It hits the sweet spot of being thoughtful, impressive, affordable, and tasty.

https://home.bargains/

Tuesday, 8 April 2025

Master Choclatier Oli the Choc Brings the Magic of Chocolate to Easter!

You'll be able to step into a world of pure chocolaty imagination with Oli The Choc, the visionary Master Chocolatier who is on a vital mission to inspire creativity through the magic of chocolate.

From growing up in his parents’ home chocolate factory to becoming a master of his craft, Oli’s passion is as rich as his creations.

His infectious love for chocolate isn’t just about taste, it’s about the experience, creativity, and fun!

Welcome to Oli’s Weird and Wonderful Chocolate World, where anything is possible!

So, the only question is… Are you ready to CHOC ‘N’ ROLL?

As seen on This Morning with Dermot O’Leary and Sian Welby, this Easter Oli The Choc unleashed the secret to making Dubai chocolate at home. Sian couldn’t resist getting stuck in—tasting the warm, melted chocolate straight from the bowl using a ladle like it was soup! It’s that irresistible!

Welcome to the Viral Dubai Easter Egg Masterclass—created to captivate both the taste buds and social media. This Easter Egg is set to become the must-have treat of the season. But it’s not just a dessert—it’s an experience.

Oli on the show
Are you ready to test your level of creativity today with chocolate?

If so, here’s how to make the Viral Dubai Easter Egg for the family – We dare you to share!

Ingredients

500g solid milk chocolate

200g Kataifi (Kataifi is a delicate, shredded phyllo dough pastry, but you can substitute with Shredded Wheat but may not be quite as crunchy)

60g Tahini

300g pistachio cream (shop bought or homemade / blended pistachios)

1 sheet gold leaf

20g green coloured chocolate (mix oil-based colour with white chocolate)

Equipment

Egg mould x 2 halves

Plastic microwaveable bowls x 2

Spatula x 2

Scraper

Greaseproof paper

Piping bags

Microwave

Recipe based on a 10” tall egg weighing approx. 1KG.

Method

Take one clean (half) egg mould and decorate the inside with drizzles of green chocolate using a piping bag and add gold leaf.

Fill the mould with tempered milk chocolate.

Empty out the excess chocolate, leaving a layer inside.

Once set, scrape off the excess and proceed to the next step.

Fill with a thick layer of the premixed pistachio, tahini, and Kataifi.

Cover the pistachio layer with another layer of milk chocolate and leave to set.

Once completely set, scrape any excess and place in the fridge.

Stick the two halves together with tempered chocolate—perhaps hiding some chocolate goodies inside, like Oli’s signature Holy Grail.

Looking to elevate your chocolate indulgence even further? The legendary Holy Grail chocolate can be purchased exclusively at Oli The Choc’s official store which you will find here https://www.olithechoc.com

You can follow Oli's recipe here as he shows Dermot and Sian how to make the truly stunning eggs!

Friday, 6 December 2024

The Perfect Christmas Present for the Chocolate Lover: A Hot Chocolate Bomb Set

Christmas is the season of giving, and there’s no better way to spread warmth and joy than with a gift that melts hearts—literally. 

For the chocolate lover in your life, a Hot Chocolate Bomb Set is the ultimate festive treat. These decorative spheres of chocolate aren’t just edible; they’re an experience.

 Imagine watching a beautifully crafted chocolate ball dissolve in warm milk, revealing a cascade of rich cocoa and miniature marshmallows. Here’s why a Hot Chocolate Bomb Set is a must-have for this holiday season.

What Are Hot Chocolate Bombs?

Hot chocolate bombs are hollow spheres of high-quality chocolate, filled with cocoa mix, marshmallows, or other delightful surprises like sprinkles, caramel, or even edible glitter. When submerged in hot milk, the outer chocolate shell melts away, releasing the contents to create a decadent mug of hot cocoa. Both visually mesmerising and utterly delicious, they transform a simple drink into an indulgent ritual.

Why They Make the Perfect Gift

Fun and Interactive

Watching a hot chocolate bomb dissolve is pure magic. It’s the kind of moment that sparks joy, no matter your age. For children, it’s an exciting treat; for adults, it’s a nostalgic reminder of the simple pleasures of the season.

Customisable Options

Many Hot Chocolate Bomb Sets come with a variety of flavours and designs. Think classic milk chocolate, white chocolate with peppermint swirls, or dark chocolate filled with orange zest. Some sets even allow for personalisation, making your gift as unique as the recipient.

Beautiful Presentation

These chocolate bombs often come in beautifully designed packaging that screams Christmas cheer. Many sets feature festive themes, from snowflakes to Christmas trees, making them a gorgeous addition to any holiday celebration.

Perfect for Cold Winter Nights

There’s nothing better than curling up on a chilly evening with a steaming mug of cocoa. Hot chocolate bombs turn an everyday comfort into an elegant and indulgent affair, perfect for winding down after a long day of holiday festivities.

Choosing the Right Set

When shopping for a Hot Chocolate Bomb Set, consider the following:

Quality of Chocolate: Opt for sets made with real, high-quality chocolate rather than cocoa substitutes.

Flavour Variety: A mix of flavours adds an element of surprise and keeps the experience fresh.

Dietary Needs: Look for dairy-free or vegan options if your recipient has dietary restrictions.

Extras: Some sets include festive mugs, stirring spoons, or even a keepsake tin for added charm.

Where to Buy Hot Chocolate Bombs in the UK

There are plenty of options available online and in stores:

Independent Chocolatiers: Many local chocolate makers craft handmade hot chocolate bombs with unique flavours.

Online Retailers: Websites like Etsy and Not On The High Street offer beautifully designed sets that support small businesses.

Supermarkets and Department Stores: Larger retailers like Marks & Spencer, John Lewis, and Tesco often stock seasonal hot chocolate bomb sets.

Cocoba are a Kent-based Chocolatier who sell locally and also on line. https://www.cocobachocolate.com

DIY Hot Chocolate Bombs

Feeling crafty? Making hot chocolate bombs at home can add a personal touch to your gift. You’ll need:

A silicone mould

High-quality melting chocolate

Cocoa mix and marshmallows

Simply melt the chocolate, coat the mould, fill with your chosen ingredients, and seal the halves together. Decorate with sprinkles or edible glitter for a festive finish!

Conclusion

A Hot Chocolate Bomb Set is more than just a gift—it’s an invitation to pause, savour, and celebrate the season. Whether you’re shopping for family, friends, or colleagues, these delightful treats are sure to bring a smile to their faces and a bit of magic to their holiday.

So, this Christmas, give the gift of warmth, sweetness, and a touch of whimsy. Your chocolate-loving friend will thank you with every sip.

What’s your favourite flavour of hot chocolate bomb? Share your thoughts below, or let us know if you’ve tried making your own!