If you are shopping around for a sweet or chocolate hamper for somebody special, it is important to understand the difference between luxury chocolate and cheaper products. There is a reason why these products differ and why many people have their very own favourite type of chocolate. If you don’t know the difference between these types of chocolate, here are some important points to keep in mind.

Prices

The first thing that you will notice when comparing luxury chocolate with cheap varieties is the price. Luxury products always have a greater price tag but there is a very good reason for this. Once you read more about what makes luxury chocolates so special, it will all make sense.

Cocoa solids

The higher the level of cocoa solids, the better the quality chocolate. Luxury chocolate will have at least 70% cocoa solids while regular chocolate about 50% and cheap chocolate will have less than 50%. This high level of cocoa solids will ensure that the chocolate has a far more refined texture and taste.

Cocoa butter

Cocoa butter is essential if you want to make a luxury chocolate. In cheaper varieties, this ingredient is substituted with vegetable oil. This is because it is cheaper than real cocoa butter. Of course, the flavour and texture of the chocolate is significantly affected. This is the reason why you will feel that horrible fatty sensation on the roof of your mouth after eating cheap chocolates.

Time and effort

The process where chocolate is crushed in a concher is called conching. The longer the conching period, the smoother your chocolate will be. It means that the process takes more time and it also increases the production cost. Of course, there is nothing that can compare to the way that luxury chocolate quite literally melts in your mouth.

When you buy cheap chocolate, you might not think twice about munching it all to satisfy your cravings. However, luxury chocolate is meant to be savoured. You want to enjoy it piece by piece and not all in one sitting. The difference between these types of chocolate is important when shopping for chocolates as well as chocolate gifts and hampers. You want to make sure that the gift you send will leave a wonderful impression which is why quality is so important.