World Chocolate Day: tasty tips from Cartwright & Butler

Tuesday 7th July is World Chocolate Day, some might say one of the sweetest days of the year! A beloved treat that’s been developed and perfected over many years, no matter what country you’re in, Chocolate is best shared or savoured.

So, making sure you’re tasting and appreciating chocolate in the best way possible is a top priority for Head of NPD and Innovation at Cartwright & Butler, Tracy Deacon. And with a background running her own chocolate business, Tracy is the ideal expert to have you tasting like professionals.

1. Listen for the snap

When cracking off a piece to enjoy, listen to the snap. A good sign of quality craftsmanship poured into the bar comes from a clean satisfying snap as it shows how the chocolate has been tempered.

2. Let it melt and don’t rush

To really get the full experience and flavours, why not let a piece melt slowly on your tongue. This can release flavours you might otherwise miss, from creamy caramel notes to nutty hazelnut or even a little of that vanilla sweetness.

3. Smell before you taste

Just like coffee, tea or wine, chocolate also has its own aroma. Take a moment to smell it first as high-quality chocolate should feel rich, warm and inviting before it reaches your taste buds.

4. Skip the fridge

Whilst it can keep food fresh, cold chocolate loses flavour and texture. If you do refrigerate, try leaving it at room temperature for 10-15 minutes so you can enjoy the full experience.

5. Try an easy pairing

Depending on the chocolate you’re eating, why not pair it with a beverage that will complement and bring out the flavours. For milk chocolate try a tea or latte and for dark chocolate try a coffee.

Chocolate is also the complemented flavour in a range of products we all know and love too from buttery chocolate chunk biscuits to brownies, cakes and truffles. Its delicate and sweet flavour adds a level of rich comfort to whatever it is paired with.

Whichever way you enjoy your chocolate, taking a little extra time to taste, pair and savour it transforms simple indulgences into something memorable.