As a devoted fan of both chocolate and coffee, I’ve always been drawn to the nearly irresistible combination of milk chocolate and espresso beans. These treats pack a big punch of flavor and energy, making them a favorite among coffee enthusiasts and chocolate lovers alike.

In this milk chocolate covered espresso beans review, I’ll explore every aspect of these flavorful morsels, from their creation process to their nutritional value and creative uses.

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Milk Chocolate Covered Coffee Beans to try yourself or give as gifts

The market offers a variety of options when it comes to milk chocolate covered coffee beans. Brands like Gourmet, It’s Delish, Liberty Bell, LaetaFood, Sunny Island, SweetGourmet, FUNTASTY, and Yankee Traders all provide their own take on this classic treat.

These products typically come in various sizes, ranging from small 2-ounce pouches to bulk 5-pound bags, catering to different consumer needs.

One of the standout options is the Its Delish Gourmet Milk Chocolate Espresso Beans, available in a 1-pound pack. These beans are roasted to perfection before being enrobed in smooth milk chocolate, creating a satisfying crunch with every bite.

The bulk packaging makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy snacking on these treats regularly or for sharing with friends and family.

For those who prefer a larger quantity, the It’s Delish Gourmet Chocolate Espresso Beans come in a generous 2-pound package. This option is ideal for offices, parties, or simply for those who can’t get enough of these beans. If a larger amount is needed for creating homemade gifts, you can purchase 10-pound bags to add to teacher coffee gift mugs or best friend coffee mugs for Christmas presents.

The quality of both the chocolate and the coffee beans used in this product confirms a premium taste experience.

Liberty Bell offers a more modest 15-ounce bag of their Milk Chocolate Covered Espresso Coffee Beans Candy. This size strikes a balance between the smaller pouches and the larger bulk options, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the treat over an extended period without committing to a massive quantity.

LaetaFood brings an interesting twist to the classic recipe with their Milk Chocolate Caramel Sea Salt Espresso Coffee Beans Candy. This variation adds layers of flavor complexity with the addition of caramel and sea salt, creating a multi-dimensional taste experience that goes beyond the traditional milk chocolate and coffee combination.

For those who prefer smaller, more portable options, Sunny Island offers a pack of twelve 2-ounce pouches. These share-size snack packs are perfect for on-the-go consumption or for portion control.

SweetGourmet Milk Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans are known for their smooth coating and true espresso falvor, for those who love a bold coffee kick with a sweet finish. They come in 1 pound packages.

Nutic Gourmet Milk Chocolate Espresso Beans have a slightley lighter roast, which makes them less bitter compared to some competitors. The chocolate is smooth and complements the lighter roast beans well, creating a sweeter, less intense espresso flavor.

How Chocolate Covered Espresso Beans are made

The process of creating chocolate covered espresso beans is a balance of skill and precision. It all begins with selecting the perfect coffee beans.

Most manufacturers opt for high-quality Arabica beans, chosen for their complex flavor profiles and lower acidity compared to their Robusta counterparts.

Once the beans are chosen, they undergo a careful roasting process to bring out their optimal flavor and aroma. The roasting level can vary depending on the desired taste profile, but it’s crucial to achieve a balance that complements the sweetness of the chocolate coating.

After roasting, the beans are cooled and prepared for their chocolate addition. The chocolate used is typically a milk chocolate blend, selected for it’s creamy texture and ability to enhance the coffee flavor without overpowering it.

The chocolate undergoes a tempering process, which involves carefully heating and cooling it to create a glossy finish and that satisfying snap when bitten.

The next process is where the magic happens. Many manufacturers use a technique called panning, where the beans are tumbled in a rotating drum while liquid chocolate is poured over them.

This method allows for a gradual buildup of the chocolate coating, resulting in a smooth and even layer around each bean.

Some artisanal producers take a more hands-on approach, hand-dipping each bean for a unique finish. This method allows for greater control over the thickness of the chocolate coating and can result in a more rustic, artisanal appearance.

Flavor Profile: A Symphony of Tastes

Biting into a milk chocolate covered espresso bean is a complex interplay of flavors and textures that makes these treats so addictively delicious.

The flavor profile can vary depending on the specific beans and chocolate used. Some varieties might have more pronounced fruity or nutty notes from the coffee beans, while others might lean more towards a caramel or vanilla flavor from the chocolate. The roast level of the beans also plays a significant role in the overall taste, with darker roasts providing a more intense, bold coffee flavor.

The Caffeine Kick: Energy in Every Bite

One of the unique aspects of chocolate covered espresso beans is their dual source of energy. You get a sugar boost from the chocolate and a caffeine kick from the whole coffee bean.

On average, a single chocolate covered espresso bean contains about 5-10 mg of caffeine, although this can vary depending on the size of the bean and the roast level.

To put this into perspective, a typical 8-ounce cup of coffee contains around 95 mg of caffeine. So, while you’d need to eat quite a few chocolate covered espresso beans to match the caffeine content of a cup of coffee, they can still provide a noticeable energy boost, especially when consumed in larger quantities.

This makes them a popular choice for those looking for a quick energy boost. However, it’s important to be mindful of your caffeine intake, especially if you’re sensitive to it’s effects.

The combination of sugar and caffeine can be quite potent, and it’s easy to overindulge without realizing how much caffeine you’re consuming.

Nutritional Considerations: Balancing Indulgence and Health

While chocolate covered espresso beans are undoubtedly delicious, they’re also quite calorie-dense. Most varieties contain around 150-200 calories per ounce, which can add up quickly if you’re not careful.

Coffee beans themselves are a good source of fiber and other nutrients. They contain small amounts of minerals like magnesium and potassium, as well as B vitamins.

Some studies have even suggested that the combination of caffeine and certain compounds found in chocolate may help prevent cognitive decline, potentially improving alertness and mental performance.

It’s worth mentioning that the nutritional profile can vary significantly depending on the specific ingredients used. Dark chocolate varieties, for example, typically have less sugar and more antioxidants than milk chocolate versions. Some manufacturers also offer sugar-free or reduced-sugar options for those looking to limit their sugar intake.

Gourmet Variations: Elevating the Classic

An interesting development is the introduction of flavored varieties. I’ve come across everything from sea salt caramel to chili-infused chocolate coatings.

These additions can add an extra layer of complexity to the flavor profile, creating a gourmet experience.

Some popular flavor combinations include:

• Dark chocolate with a hint of orange zest
• White chocolate with vanilla bean
• Milk chocolate with a touch of cinnamon
• Dark chocolate with sea salt and caramel
• Milk chocolate with a hint of coconut

Creative Uses: Beyond the Snack Bowl

While chocolate covered espresso beans are delightful on their own, they also lend themselves to a variety of culinary applications. Here are some creative ways to incorporate them into your cooking and entertaining:

Dessert Toppings

Crush chocolate covered espresso beans and sprinkle them over ice cream, cakes, or mousses for an added crunch and coffee kick. They work particularly well with coffee or chocolate-flavored desserts, adding an extra layer of texture and intensifying the coffee flavor.

Try sprinkling crushed beans over a scoop of vanilla ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce for a simple yet indulgent dessert. Or use them as a garnish for a rich chocolate mousse to add a bit of crunch and a hint of bitterness to balance the sweetness.

Baking

Incorporate whole or chopped chocolate covered espresso beans into cookies, brownies, or muffins for a surprise burst of flavor and texture. When baking with these treats, be mindful of the extra moisture they can add to your batter.

You may need to adjust your recipe slightly to account for this.

For a simple yet delicious treat, try folding chopped chocolate covered espresso beans into your favorite chocolate chip cookie dough before baking. The result is a cookie with pockets of intense coffee flavor and added crunch.

Cocktail Garnishes

Use chocolate covered espresso beans to rim the glass of an espresso martini or muddle them into a chocolate-based cocktail. They can add both visual appeal and a burst of flavor to your drinks.

For a non-alcoholic option, try garnishing a creamy iced coffee with a few whole beans. Not only do they look attractive, but they also intensify the coffee flavor as they slowly melt into the drink.

Homemade Trail Mix

Mix chocolate covered espresso beans with nuts and dried fruits for an energy-boosting hiking snack. The combination of protein from the nuts, natural sugars from the dried fruit, and caffeine from the espresso beans makes for a perfect pick-me-up during outdoor activities.

Try combining them with almonds, dried cranberries, and a few dark chocolate chips for a balanced and satisfying trail mix.

Gift Giving

Package chocolate covered espresso beans in a decorative jar for a thoughtful, homemade gift. This can be especially appreciated by coffee lovers or as a unique hostess gift. You could even create a custom blend by mixing different varieties or adding complementary ingredients like nuts or dried fruit.

Additional Flavors

If you’re feeling adventurous, look for brands that offer unique flavor combinations or infusions. These can range from simple additions like sea salt to more complex flavor profiles involving spices or fruit essences.

Freshness

Look for brands that package their products in a way that maintains freshness. Airtight containers or individually wrapped pieces can help preserve the quality of both the chocolate and the coffee beans.

Allergen Information

If you have any food allergies or sensitivities, be sure to check the ingredient list carefully. Some brands may process their products in facilities that also handle nuts, dairy, or other common allergens.

A review

1. Milk chocolate covered espresso beans offer a unique combination of flavors and textures, balancing sweet and bitter notes.
2. They provide a dual energy boost from both caffeine and sugar, making them a popular snack for an afternoon pick-me-up.
3. While calorie-dense, they do offer some nutritional benefits, particularly when made with dark chocolate.
4. Gourmet variations, including single-origin and flavored options, are expanding the possibilities of this classic treat.
5. When choosing a brand, consider factors like bean quality, chocolate type, and ethical sourcing practices.
6. These versatile treats can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into various culinary creations.
7. Pairing chocolate covered espresso beans with complementary flavors can enhance the overall tasting experience.

People Also Asked

What is the caffeine content of chocolate covered espresso beans?

On average, a single chocolate covered espresso bean contains about 5-10 mg of caffeine. However, this can vary depending on the size of the bean and the roast level.

Are chocolate covered espresso beans healthy?

While they do contain some useful antioxidants from both the chocolate and coffee, chocolate covered espresso beans are high in calories and sugar. They should be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Can you eat too many chocolate covered espresso beans?

Yes, it’s possible to consume too many. Overconsumption can lead to caffeine-related side effects like jitters, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping.

It’s best to enjoy them in moderation.

How long do chocolate covered espresso beans last?

Properly stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, chocolate covered espresso beans can last for several months. However, for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to consume them within 2-3 months of purchase.

Can I make chocolate covered espresso beans at home?

Yes, it’s possible to make them at home. You’ll need whole roasted coffee beans, tempered chocolate, and some patience for the coating process.

However, achieving the same smooth finish as commercial products can be challenging without specialized equipment.

Are there sugar-free options for chocolate covered espresso beans?

Yes, some manufacturers offer sugar-free versions using sugar choices or very high percentage dark chocolate. These can be a good option for those watching their sugar intake.

What’s the difference between chocolate covered coffee beans and chocolate covered espresso beans?

The terms are often used interchangeably, but technically, espresso beans are coffee beans that have been roasted longer and darker, resulting in a more intense flavor profile.

Are chocolate covered espresso beans vegan?

Some varieties can be vegan if they use dark chocolate without milk ingredients. However, many traditional versions use milk chocolate and are not vegan-friendly.

Always check the ingredient list if this is a concern.