Chocolate is universally adored, and its allure lies in the endless variety available to enchant and delight every palate.
For those with a penchant for sweetness, the spectrum ranges from the creamy indulgence of milk chocolate to the luxurious decadence of truffles, pralines, and chocolate-covered caramels. Meanwhile, for those who savour a more nuanced, less sweet experience, dark chocolate, orangettes, chocolate-covered nuts, and chocolate-covered dried fruits offer a perfect balance. For example, think of the smoothness of milk chocolate, the elegance of truffles, the crunch of chocolate-covered nuts, and the tang of orangettes – and a lot more!
Join us as we explore the crème de la crème of chocolates from this vast array, each one crafted to captivate your senses and bring pure joy.
Top 17 Chocolate Types in Australia
1. Milk Chocolate
Milk chocolate is one of the most popular types of chocolate, loved for its creamy texture and sweet flavour. Made with milk powder or condensed milk, it has a lighter colour and a smoother, sweeter taste compared to dark chocolate. Milk chocolate is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or used in various confections such as bars, truffles, and bonbons. Its mild and creamy profile makes it a favourite among children and adults alike.
2. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is known for its rich, intense flavour and higher cocoa content. It contains little to no milk solids, resulting in a deeper, more robust chocolate taste. Dark chocolate in Australia can range from mildly bitter to very bitter, depending on the cocoa percentage. It is often appreciated for its health benefits, including high antioxidant levels and lower sugar content. Dark chocolate is a sophisticated choice, perfect for those who enjoy bold flavours.
3. Chocolate Truffles
Chocolate truffles are a luxurious treat made with a creamy ganache centre, typically coated in cocoa powder, chocolate, or nuts. The ganache centre is often made by heating cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate, then whisking until smooth. These bite-sized delicacies can come in various flavours, including classic dark chocolate, champagne, or even exotic spices, providing a melt-in-your-mouth experience that is both rich and indulgent.
4. Chocolate Bonbons
Bonbons are small, beautifully crafted chocolates with a thin, hard shell and a soft filling. The fillings can range from fruit purees and caramel to creamy ganaches and nut pastes. Bonbons are often designed with intricate patterns and vibrant colours, making them not only a treat for the palate but also a feast for the eyes. The combination of textures and flavours makes bonbons a delightful and sophisticated choice for chocolate lovers.
5. Chocolate Ganache
Ganache is a rich, smooth mixture of chocolate and cream, used as a filling, icing, or base for truffles. It’s made by heating cream and pouring it over chopped chocolate, then stirring until smooth and glossy. Ganache can be flavoured with various ingredients such as liqueurs, spices, or fruit extracts. Its velvety texture and intense chocolate flavour make it a versatile and essential component in many chocolate confections.
6. Raw Chocolate
Raw chocolate is made from unroasted cocoa beans, preserving more of the natural nutrients and flavours. It’s often considered a healthier option due to its high antioxidant content and lower sugar levels. Raw chocolate in Australia typically has a more intense, earthy flavour compared to traditional chocolate, and it’s often sweetened with natural sweeteners like coconut sugar or agave syrup. It’s a great choice for health-conscious chocolate lovers who don’t want to compromise on taste.
7. Praline
Praline chocolates feature a smooth filling made from nuts (usually hazelnuts or almonds) ground into a paste and mixed with chocolate. The nutty, creamy filling is encased in a chocolate shell, creating a perfect balance of textures and flavours. Praline chocolates are a classic treat, beloved for their rich, nutty taste and satisfying crunch.
8. Orangette
Orangettes are strips of candied orange peel dipped in dark chocolate. They provide a perfect balance of citrusy sweetness and rich chocolate, making them a delightful treat. The tangy, slightly bitter taste of the orange peel complements the smooth, bittersweet chocolate, resulting in a sophisticated and refreshing confection.
9. Mendiant
Mendiants are traditional French confections consisting of a chocolate disk topped with nuts and dried fruits. These bite-sized treats are as beautiful as they are delicious, offering a blend of textures and flavours. The combination of creamy chocolate, crunchy nuts, and chewy dried fruits creates a harmonious and satisfying snack.
10. Rochers
Rochers are cluster-like chocolates made with a mix of chocolate, nuts, and sometimes dried fruits or caramel. They are crunchy, rich, and utterly satisfying. The nuts and fruits provide a delightful texture contrast to the smooth chocolate, making rochers a perfect treat for those who love a bit of crunch in their chocolate.
11. Caramel Chocolate
Caramel chocolates feature a gooey or creamy caramel centre encased in chocolate. The combination of sweet, buttery caramel and rich chocolate is irresistible. The contrast between the soft, chewy caramel and the smooth chocolate shell creates a delightful texture and flavour experience that is hard to beat.
12. Chocolate Bark
Chocolate bark is a sheet of chocolate, typically topped with nuts, dried fruits, or other confections. It’s a versatile and visually appealing treat, perfect for sharing or gifting. The toppings add texture and flavour, making each bite a unique experience. Chocolate bark in Australia can be customised with a variety of ingredients, making it a fun and creative confection to enjoy.
13. Chocolate-Covered Nuts
Chocolate-covered nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, and macadamias, are a delightful combination of crunch and chocolate. The nuts provide a satisfying crunch, while the chocolate adds a rich, creamy coating. This classic treat is perfect for snacking or as a sweet addition to a gift basket.
14. Nougat
Chocolate-covered nougat combines the chewy, nutty sweetness of nougat with the richness of chocolate. Nougat is typically made from sugar, honey, and roasted nuts, giving it a distinctive, chewy texture and sweet flavour. When coated in chocolate, nougat becomes an even more indulgent treat, perfect for satisfying a sweet tooth.
15. Chocolate-Covered Fruits
Dried fruits like strawberries, cherries, and apricots dipped in chocolate provide a delightful contrast of flavours and textures. The natural sweetness and tartness of the fruit complement the rich, smooth chocolate, creating a balanced and refreshing treat. Chocolate-covered fruits are a great way to enjoy a slightly healthier sweet treat.
16. Chocolate Fudge
Chocolate fudge is a rich, dense confection made from sugar, butter, and milk, combined with chocolate. It’s known for its creamy texture and intense chocolate flavour. Fudge can be made with various add-ins like nuts, dried fruits, or marshmallows, adding extra texture and flavour. It’s a classic treat that’s perfect for gifting or indulging in as a special treat.
17. Drinking Cacao
Drinking cacao, or hot chocolate, is a beloved beverage in Australia, especially during the colder months. Made from high-quality cocoa powder or melted chocolate, it offers a comforting and indulgent experience. Drinking cacao can be enhanced with various flavours such as cinnamon, vanilla, or even a dash of chilli for a spicy kick. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the rich taste of chocolate in a warm, soothing drink.
There’s a Perfect Chocolate for Every Experience
Chocolate is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating happiness, soothing sadness, or simply unwinding. It has a magical way of fitting every mood and moment. Choose a variety of chocolates that suit your taste and mood, and indulge in the pleasure it brings. Whether you prefer the creamy sweetness of milk chocolate, the luxurious decadence of truffles, or the rich intensity of dark chocolate, there’s a perfect chocolate for every experience. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the blissful moments that only chocolate can provide.
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