tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-102631012024-03-07T01:08:22.650-08:00EatMoreChocolate.comJoe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.comBlogger134125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-65738396071262899722011-07-29T16:22:00.000-07:002011-08-24T06:00:42.649-07:00Time to Move.... GO TO EATMORECHOCOLATE.COM<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">Thank you so much for following my journey on blogspot these past few years. What a terrific platform to "learn" the business of writing about Chocolate.<br />
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I have now moved the content to the new and improved <a href="http://eatmorechocolate.com/">EatMoreChocolate.com</a>.<br />
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I invite you to link over and register. Be apart of this new community devoted to finding the best chocolate in the world!<br />
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The new site went live on July 28th, 2011. Hopefully the TV show we are developing is not too far behind.<br />
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Other ways to stay in touch (all linked to <a href="http://eatmorechocolate.com/">eatmorechocolate.com</a>):<br />
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Follow me on Twitter: <a href="http://twitter.com/EMCjoe">twitter.com/EMCjoe</a><br />
Like me on Facebook: <a href="http://facebook.com/EMCjoe">facebook.com/EMCjoe</a><br />
Follow me on Foodspotting: <a href="http://foodspotting.com/people">foodspotting.com/people</a> and search for EMCjoe<br />
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Fondly,<br />
Eat More Chocolate,<br />
Joe<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-63541600388604191322011-05-13T12:18:00.000-07:002011-05-13T12:18:02.939-07:00The 'Triple Double' is on the way!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqWd6VzRYyOAPmes3DWC7IHpIi1CeYYeavAZx_k3zV00iRQwAhaTKMBLGbJdqjBvAvcl_28mRGIZpCy2KcpNHrA30BFTy1RG_z-1U6GVAcLfu7Q3UL8ipZdGl2rjhbxYOq6mq_SA/s1600/s-TRIPLE-DOUBLE-OREOS-large300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="145" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqWd6VzRYyOAPmes3DWC7IHpIi1CeYYeavAZx_k3zV00iRQwAhaTKMBLGbJdqjBvAvcl_28mRGIZpCy2KcpNHrA30BFTy1RG_z-1U6GVAcLfu7Q3UL8ipZdGl2rjhbxYOq6mq_SA/s200/s-TRIPLE-DOUBLE-OREOS-large300.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
I love the Oreo. My kids love the Oreo. Our Cookie Jar is filled with Oreos 365 days a year. My Dog is named Oreo.<br />
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We have tried every form and flavor but now Nabisco may have topped it all.<br />
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Rumors abound that the Triple Double will arrive at the local stores this summer. Three layers of chocolate Oreo wafers with two layers of double stuffed creme, one chocolate and one vanilla.<br />
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I'll line up early to get my hands on this newest sensation.<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-19723917783894348192011-04-02T06:11:00.000-07:002011-04-21T06:52:29.716-07:00Online: Chocomize- Really Terrific Custom Chocolate Bars<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><i>Apology: I did this interview in November and just realized it did not post. My thanks to the guys at Chocomize for indulging my visit, answering my questions and showing me around their facility.</i><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgSKyujIPmrrCIdRK3NIcsJdMZrsSBtKOmKSeOaVFw-h9b7McpzbcZvm6d7QmbxfGnvsNnUMeV_xbKtqbbziuNlaqqeT93Tw9_hHRipfOcYbSV6wwdvL6Nvv26LF4cMIrhMnuRvQ/s1600/chocomize-chocolate-smores-bar-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgSKyujIPmrrCIdRK3NIcsJdMZrsSBtKOmKSeOaVFw-h9b7McpzbcZvm6d7QmbxfGnvsNnUMeV_xbKtqbbziuNlaqqeT93Tw9_hHRipfOcYbSV6wwdvL6Nvv26LF4cMIrhMnuRvQ/s200/chocomize-chocolate-smores-bar-1.jpg" width="120" /></a></div>I really like Chocomize! The idea of creating your own bar from premium ingredients is a dream come true. <span style="font-size: small;"> I had the chance to visit with<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span></span><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Eric Heinbockel and Fabian Kaempfer of Chocomize at their facility and I so admire their vision, work ethic and tenacity.</span><br />
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</span><br />
<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">It is not easy to start a new concept. It takes hard work, passion for what you are doing and drive to keep going, especially in the beginning, and the guys that are bringing you Chocomize are definitely living that dream/ reality.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Praised and reported by numerous national magazines and shows, I just had to make a trip to Cherry Hill, NJ, just outside Phily to see this operation first hand. The facility is unassuming from the outside, but on the inside they are putting together just what the customer wants... literally.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Chocomize has made it simple for us to buy whatever we want. You go online and head to the "creation station" and start by picking your favorite base (milk, white or dark). These guys don't mess around, they are using high quality European chocolate and then the fun begins... you get to select up to 5 of your favorite toppings- from </span><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">over 100 options of </span><span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">nuts & seeds, fruits, herbs &spices, candy, decorations and other goodies. </span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">I had purchased and eaten several bars before arriving in New Jersey (see September 13, 2010). I particularly liked the milk chocolate bar with oreo, dark chocolate chips and white chocolate chips. I called it my "eat more chocolate" bar- of course. I also made milk chocolate with graham teddies and mini marshmallows- my "smores" bar. I even tried a combo I found in a different setting at Panache in Kansas City- Milk Chocolate with Corn Flakes. All were really good because of the exceptional base chocolate that Chocomize uses.</span><br />
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<span style="color: black; font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">Terrific work Guys- you're on to something really big here.. I loved the visit. Thanks!<br />
</span></div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-39351307095632760162011-03-10T13:36:00.000-08:002011-04-05T07:54:26.516-07:00Dallas: La Duni- Hall of Fame Desserts<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0_l0WICZFFjEFDVmeQSYOZ9GiQtmcV8jHf_fv7VjvjyT69iemUJt1FFSLGeUSGAwEvmj612olGojOQcJ302zGU128pUkVhqyXBNkJ2qD6cRqBGyWxXo-EODR8QcNgH4SnaFsrg/s1600/16106-thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK0_l0WICZFFjEFDVmeQSYOZ9GiQtmcV8jHf_fv7VjvjyT69iemUJt1FFSLGeUSGAwEvmj612olGojOQcJ302zGU128pUkVhqyXBNkJ2qD6cRqBGyWxXo-EODR8QcNgH4SnaFsrg/s200/16106-thumb.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Venezuelan Triple Chocolate Truffle Cake</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9m4re3lQ34Zvn3muW_A9LFvFJO6E1119SdVIIUy6DKfvSkSAYcsfZ9Z2I6yRvzIwfFPZtVXA3RU-Pxi-2X3EHdVjlWMrnVG8xxJkXqmmFqBfKxVaF2BJPnxPmJB1fw_vdnUdNQ/s1600/16103-thumb.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9m4re3lQ34Zvn3muW_A9LFvFJO6E1119SdVIIUy6DKfvSkSAYcsfZ9Z2I6yRvzIwfFPZtVXA3RU-Pxi-2X3EHdVjlWMrnVG8xxJkXqmmFqBfKxVaF2BJPnxPmJB1fw_vdnUdNQ/s200/16103-thumb.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nutella Milk Chocolate Cake</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
People often ask me where is my favorite place to eat chocolate desserts or what is my favorite chocolate.<br />
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These are impossible questions for me to answer, because I really don't have a true favorite.<br />
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I love all types of chocolate and am constantly amazed at how creative and ingenious people are in finding new ways to use this amazing ingredient..<br />
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I do have some special places I go for an immediate fix when I am in need. One of those haunts is La Duni in Dallas. Started by Dunia and Taco Borga, Dunia has become one of the finest pastry chefs in America. La Duni's Nutella Milk Chocolate and Venezuelan Triple Chocolate Truffle Cakes are amongst the best I have ever eaten.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwyz-BLaEKho18iiajgfkauq9yxck5GR0AtS1F5ucWv29W5B-YicLeiFfwBVIO2qSyog0T7tPGJkbJ8rWrCy5I2ov9BosH22qgHFPzlB3OtSPg_yqUinR5dj-uJCsiC4KWaERVg/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUwyz-BLaEKho18iiajgfkauq9yxck5GR0AtS1F5ucWv29W5B-YicLeiFfwBVIO2qSyog0T7tPGJkbJ8rWrCy5I2ov9BosH22qgHFPzlB3OtSPg_yqUinR5dj-uJCsiC4KWaERVg/s200/images.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cuatro Leches Cake</td></tr>
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<br />
<br />
Although I just can't pick favorite chocolate treats, I do think her Cuatro Leches Cake is one of the best non-chocolate dessert I have ever eaten. I think it has white chocolate in it and that's why I love it so much, but I'm told it does not...<br />
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When I opened my Current Energy store on Knox Street in Dallas a few years back, I had La Duni cater the grand opening party. They made miniature bite-size versions of each of these 3 desserts. No one left the party that didn't ask "where did those desserts come from". We had them again, this time in cupcake form, for another family celebration last year and again, these fantastic desserts were wildly acclaimed.<br />
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Definitely, La Duni is deserving of admittance into Joe's Chocolate Hall of Fame for their outstanding use of chocolate in cakes and other great desserts, too!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-30174287974934598682011-03-01T07:15:00.000-08:002011-04-05T07:07:33.632-07:00Addison, Tx: J. Dorian Chocolatier<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It is with great sadness that I must report my friend and great chocolatier J. Dorian has decided to close shop, effective immediately. Dorian, don't stay retired to long....</div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpo2bHik2yZ7n7bZDC8rmC5V5T_woJk1vCzTYdhfolVlDtGJVsu81lD-OPmkSz7iI4HLm2UH4TLiVHKUFm6mLCeXTGhOgz3U-gDSdRR6pwpiAtmqRZx_5n4oG7lq8nZEVj95uZQ/s1600/IMG_2921.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdpo2bHik2yZ7n7bZDC8rmC5V5T_woJk1vCzTYdhfolVlDtGJVsu81lD-OPmkSz7iI4HLm2UH4TLiVHKUFm6mLCeXTGhOgz3U-gDSdRR6pwpiAtmqRZx_5n4oG7lq8nZEVj95uZQ/s200/IMG_2921.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Great Chocolate by J. Dorian</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoEU3eMbls9xn8-rGUawvzgWuJZABnISv_6IE3ZfETKnihh2aBl3SFpEr6TDb6BoZafIHp5IndSId3IfmhwiHYcB7h_-EPFcfad5Uu8mWFByywWwLBPOax9TMf6zAKZkXSdVopw/s1600/IMG_2924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJ8OvEAEn7oAd6wT5071DQq_2aO9TRR_FqvobVOEnC2m65WDiuwDVsT95WCp6AiS301AeN0RXgmMQzPOgxPAquk_zVQXrr0oKO56CZXdPIf5FmxTqoLyHIDz7Bs7QWKe8Ku8Inw/s1600/IMG_2923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstdYOBVljW8oQ2U-7B0X1SHkWkNuZWePsxt7HgEEkeqBxpbhZ3dhn_5f6bfKPRQRBoccLj1-Zchs3eGcICTX0RPB393ssbiREadvQxM2FQjXGEZdujv5eBCK9_PgbW0W6R6oKTw/s1600/IMG_2922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstdYOBVljW8oQ2U-7B0X1SHkWkNuZWePsxt7HgEEkeqBxpbhZ3dhn_5f6bfKPRQRBoccLj1-Zchs3eGcICTX0RPB393ssbiREadvQxM2FQjXGEZdujv5eBCK9_PgbW0W6R6oKTw/s1600/IMG_2922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjstdYOBVljW8oQ2U-7B0X1SHkWkNuZWePsxt7HgEEkeqBxpbhZ3dhn_5f6bfKPRQRBoccLj1-Zchs3eGcICTX0RPB393ssbiREadvQxM2FQjXGEZdujv5eBCK9_PgbW0W6R6oKTw/s200/IMG_2922.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going,</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJ8OvEAEn7oAd6wT5071DQq_2aO9TRR_FqvobVOEnC2m65WDiuwDVsT95WCp6AiS301AeN0RXgmMQzPOgxPAquk_zVQXrr0oKO56CZXdPIf5FmxTqoLyHIDz7Bs7QWKe8Ku8Inw/s1600/IMG_2923.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnJ8OvEAEn7oAd6wT5071DQq_2aO9TRR_FqvobVOEnC2m65WDiuwDVsT95WCp6AiS301AeN0RXgmMQzPOgxPAquk_zVQXrr0oKO56CZXdPIf5FmxTqoLyHIDz7Bs7QWKe8Ku8Inw/s200/IMG_2923.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going,</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody> </tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoEU3eMbls9xn8-rGUawvzgWuJZABnISv_6IE3ZfETKnihh2aBl3SFpEr6TDb6BoZafIHp5IndSId3IfmhwiHYcB7h_-EPFcfad5Uu8mWFByywWwLBPOax9TMf6zAKZkXSdVopw/s1600/IMG_2924.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHoEU3eMbls9xn8-rGUawvzgWuJZABnISv_6IE3ZfETKnihh2aBl3SFpEr6TDb6BoZafIHp5IndSId3IfmhwiHYcB7h_-EPFcfad5Uu8mWFByywWwLBPOax9TMf6zAKZkXSdVopw/s200/IMG_2924.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Going, </td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEileMTvmpTZe-wM0f85Fy0PvgcdVWfJNk9smElcy_B-8v_k8fx4BnYkjnRxXO3pmZ9YIDibNd7xPvrwMKwTlKEwvH0wWdAq_7sodJEpP79ePOsRnVb1Xp2Ly2aRwmuZTf3mixfZuw/s1600/IMG_2925.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEileMTvmpTZe-wM0f85Fy0PvgcdVWfJNk9smElcy_B-8v_k8fx4BnYkjnRxXO3pmZ9YIDibNd7xPvrwMKwTlKEwvH0wWdAq_7sodJEpP79ePOsRnVb1Xp2Ly2aRwmuZTf3mixfZuw/s200/IMG_2925.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Now GONE! RIP!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-47316439482548688462011-02-22T12:01:00.000-08:002011-02-22T12:13:50.037-08:00Creme Egg or Nesteggs? - that is the question.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Easter already? My local grocery store, Tom Thumb (Safeway) has just put out some of my favorite once-a-year treats, including Nestle Crunch NestEggs and Cadbury mini Creme Eggs.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhShqWCRC1Se3k0ASh-l2XyCoRLTTyzrWnmTW2i3wOOhJwQUBBhNk16HRXSu87qjkexXIkgs1rPDh3oBl114rBHCR40mjvq-CWoP-kExmIdHn8sKJxkFdSO8Q1dgHd1o-CVQl2icw/s1600/IMG_0917.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhShqWCRC1Se3k0ASh-l2XyCoRLTTyzrWnmTW2i3wOOhJwQUBBhNk16HRXSu87qjkexXIkgs1rPDh3oBl114rBHCR40mjvq-CWoP-kExmIdHn8sKJxkFdSO8Q1dgHd1o-CVQl2icw/s200/IMG_0917.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QzbDo1o7YIGJeOZ9lVvdUOpaOkSr9CeiJGp1CQpBkZ1LuT_jrLimhHV1XDNUx6_nlAxrlgi82J5UBEXAAImpl1POjnx7syRYp6cBjZjVcZh-SnacR26u3PE8VMokMry8bYU3MA/s1600/IMG_0922.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="160" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-QzbDo1o7YIGJeOZ9lVvdUOpaOkSr9CeiJGp1CQpBkZ1LuT_jrLimhHV1XDNUx6_nlAxrlgi82J5UBEXAAImpl1POjnx7syRYp6cBjZjVcZh-SnacR26u3PE8VMokMry8bYU3MA/s200/IMG_0922.JPG" width="200" /></a>This brings on the annual tug-a-war that I have with myself. I love Nestle Crunch bars and the consistency of a smaller thicker Nestegg version seems to make the Crunch even better. The Cadbury Creme Egg is really only readily available at Easter and is a seasonal favorite. The mini version is genius. How do they so exprertly mix the white and yellow creme into such a small chocolate "shell"?<br />
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So which one do I "go to" in a pinch? The answer is quite simple: mix them in a bowl and grab which ever one my fingers get a hold of first. This pot luck random selection process is great because I never lose!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiozUUStMdZJKHAOPlIkzAh06-SeAhMoZVQD2ShrK9FTp8vDVYnWItym2pZSdAXtAq_XEYUp0NF5-BxGSWMeVmt76hPCW6kfFbblt_uxa6iy6cQQBxK2qMBQLpsVmlNAmIJa3xkuQ/s1600/IMG_0923.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiozUUStMdZJKHAOPlIkzAh06-SeAhMoZVQD2ShrK9FTp8vDVYnWItym2pZSdAXtAq_XEYUp0NF5-BxGSWMeVmt76hPCW6kfFbblt_uxa6iy6cQQBxK2qMBQLpsVmlNAmIJa3xkuQ/s200/IMG_0923.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
Also, because I am eating the "minis" I can eat more and not feel guilty..... right? : )<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-46102313454307489372011-02-13T12:02:00.000-08:002011-04-21T06:42:30.171-07:00EMC video blogs & a new website are on the way....<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">I am so excited to announce a new way to deliver info to my avid followers: video blogs.<br />
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The EMC team has been working hard to put together video clips of our recent visit to the Fancy Food Show in San Francisco. We also toured and interviewed several important chocolatiers and chocolate store owners while in San Francisco. We hope to start uploading in a few weeks.<br />
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Also, we have a new website to be introduced in May.<br />
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Lot's happening at Eat More Chocolate!</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-48685233738109566812011-02-06T11:35:00.000-08:002011-02-09T05:47:42.116-08:00Dallas: Krispy Kreme- CHOCOLATE FILLING!!<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGiPbSSKHSMDrgRPMcGl_MqdXuzyL8VYtAfkg94p_5-ahQFaUWC74NaAp0CW_SETofDb_n-aARv010bXvEXeXJWZWYI3qJpbYsXTsVuPnUQQuHABvnJNmehzFbJfBc3vKS7bVZhg/s1600/Krispie+Kreme.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="151" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGiPbSSKHSMDrgRPMcGl_MqdXuzyL8VYtAfkg94p_5-ahQFaUWC74NaAp0CW_SETofDb_n-aARv010bXvEXeXJWZWYI3qJpbYsXTsVuPnUQQuHABvnJNmehzFbJfBc3vKS7bVZhg/s200/Krispie+Kreme.jpg" width="200" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I seem to be on a Donut run right now- where else should you go when fighting ice storms. I hit Jerry's last week. This week, I am back at Krispy Kreme and....CHOCOLATE FILLING!?</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">(OK, I guess my diet kept me away too long, because I understand this has been out for few weeks.)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">KK has created a new "chocolate" creme filling to add to their already exceptional donut lineup.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNbn7B3oD3PXozYNG9vHirJtcqGCKKFiiqedFs0LgnQ2j4gOjFeoQQHLJBCA_P1ZiwstF-gh-KH08uDqAl0AK1gqiitv0qP_mo6Y7c383n6AK-4loKzRFdT0UyU_b341S_sbaPg/s1600/IMG_0825.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxNbn7B3oD3PXozYNG9vHirJtcqGCKKFiiqedFs0LgnQ2j4gOjFeoQQHLJBCA_P1ZiwstF-gh-KH08uDqAl0AK1gqiitv0qP_mo6Y7c383n6AK-4loKzRFdT0UyU_b341S_sbaPg/s200/IMG_0825.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">For years I have written to the powers that be and talked to the local manager and have practically begged for this treat. I know Boston Creme Donuts have vanilla creme, but I wanted to see chocolate inside and for years KK was denying my ultimate fulfillment and satisfaction. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Now, I am extremely happy!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I hope this delicious addition is here for good. It is terrific.<span id="goog_1582294769"></span><span id="goog_1582294770"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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</div><span id="goog_494560064"></span><span id="goog_494560065"></span></div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-44525213461231999212011-02-05T13:13:00.000-08:002011-02-05T15:27:53.694-08:00TV: Food Network- "Covered in Chocolate" weekend<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: black;">Food Network TV shows will have lots of chocolate segments to enjoy Saturday, February 5th and Sunday, February 6th</span>:</span><br />
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/30-minute-meals/index.html" target="_blank" title="30 Minute Meals FoodNetork.com"><span style="color: blue;"><i><br />
</i></span></a></b><span style="color: black;"></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><b><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/5-ingredient-fix/index.html" target="_blank" title="5 Ingredient Fix FoodNetwork.com"><span style="color: blue;"><i>5 Ingredient Fix:</i></span></a></b> <span style="color: black;"><b>Saturday, February 5th at 9:30am, “My Fave Classics”<br />
</b>Chocolate Soufflé.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/paulas-best-dishes/index.html" target="_blank" title="Paula's Best Dishes"><span style="color: blue;"><i>Paula’s Best Dishes:</i></span></a></b> <span style="color: black;"><b>Saturday, February 5th at 10am, “Always Room for Chocolate”</b></span><span style="color: black;">Milk Chocolate and Almond Brickle, Chocolate Explosion Cheesecake and Chocolate Cream Puffs with Hazelnut Filling.</span></span> </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/secrets-of-a-restaurant-chef/index.html" target="_blank" title="Secrets of a Restaurant Chef FoodNetwork.com"><i><span style="color: blue;">Secrets of a Restaurant Chef:</span></i></a></b><span style="color: blue;"> </span><b><span style="color: black;">Saturday, February 5th at 11pm, “Gulf Shrimp Jambalaya”</span></b> <span style="color: black;"> </span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;">Fluffy Beignets and Super Thick Hot Chocolate for dessert.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/barefoot-contessa/index.html" target="_blank" title="Barefoot Contessa FoodNetwork.com"><span style="color: blue;">Barefoot Contessa:</span></a></i></b><span style="color: blue;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><b>Saturday, February 5th at 12pm, “Old School Retro Mix” </b></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b></b></span><span style="color: black;">Mocha Chocolate Ice Box Cake.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/food-network-challenge/index.html"><b><u><span style="color: blue;">Challenge:</span></u></b></a> </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Saturday, February 5th at 5pm, “Chocolate Wonders”</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;">Chocolate, Chocolate, Chocolate</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b> </b></span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/unwrapped/index.html"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b></b></span></span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b><a href="http://www.blogger.com/post-edit.g?blogID=10263101&postID=4452521346123199921" style="color: blue;">Unwrapped</a><span style="color: blue;">:</span> </b></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Saturday, February 5th at 6pm, “</b></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Valentine's Unwrapped</b></span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>”</b></span></span><br />
<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Whitman's Sampler, red velvet cake, body paint</span></span><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/giada-at-home/index.html" target="_blank" title="Giada at Home FoodNetwork.com"><span style="color: blue;">Giada at Home:</span></a></i></b> <span style="color: black;"><b>Sunday, February 6th at 9am, “Valentine’s Day”<br />
</b></span><span style="color: black;">Chocolate Chip and Cinnamon Pizzelles, Chocolate and Coconut Lace Cookies</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/cooking-for-real/index.html"><b><u><span style="color: blue;">Cooking For Real: </span></u></b></a> </span></span><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;"><b>Sunday, February 6th at 10am, “Pots of Gold”</b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;">Molten-Chocolate Cake<b> </b></span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/aarti-party/index.html" target="_blank" title="Aarti Party FoodNetwork.com"><span style="color: blue;"><b>Aarti Party:</b></span></a></i><b><span style="color: black;"> Sunday, February 6th at 10:30am, “Warm Me Up”<br />
</span></b><span style="color: black;">Spiced Hot Chocolate.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/sandras-money-saving-meals/index.html" target="_blank" title="Sandra's Money Saving Meals FoodNetwork.com"><b><i><span style="color: blue;">Sandra’s Money Saving Meals:</span></i></b> </a><b><span style="color: black;">Sunday, February 6th at 11am, “Chocolate Feast”</span></b><span style="color: black;">Savory Pear Bites with White Chocolate, Pan Roasted Rib Eye Steaks with Chocolate Savory Sauce served with Sautéed Mushrooms and Onions, and Milk Chocolate Cupcakes with Dark Chocolate Icing and a Frozen Hot Chocolate Martini</span>.</span> </div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/ten-dollar-dinners-with-melissa-darabian/index.html" target="_blank" title="Ten dollar Dinners"><b><i><span style="color: blue;">Ten Dollar Dinners:</span></i></b></a><span style="color: blue;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><b>Sunday, February 6th at 11:30am, “Melissa’s 4-Step Finish” </b> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;">Chocolate Sponge Puddings.</span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/down-home-with-the-neelys/index.html" target="_blank" title="Down Home with the Neelys FoodNetwork.com"><span style="color: blue;">Down Home with the Neelys:</span></a></span></i></b> <span style="color: black;"><b>Sunday, February 6th at 12pm, “Snack Attack!”</b> </span></span></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;">Chocolate “Chips” and Death by Chocolate Martinis.!</span></span><br />
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<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b><i><span style="color: blue;"><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/down-home-with-the-neelys/index.html" target="_blank" title="Down Home with the Neelys FoodNetwork.com"><span style="color: blue;">Guy's Big Bite:</span></a></span></i></b> <span style="color: black;"><b>Sunday, February 6th at 12:30pm, </b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="color: black;">Chile-Dusted Chocolate Quesadillas </span></span></div></div><div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br />
</div><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Enjoy </span></span></span><br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-45188429577338283372011-01-28T13:33:00.000-08:002011-01-31T03:33:11.715-08:00Dallas: Jerry's Donuts- What a find, just in time for the Super Bowl<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SBOSRpXPJVu55aZMmT80-c3eyEVVpdSJ8cy9g3ari1S0fyLwALxV3Gdhed4pOFTVlMNchnD-rn9WVj8NKfF2vucz0IQW-3Febt4KfEvVhV0byBLvz-FXpwJDQi81DTQMoy4yGQ/s1600/IMG_0735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="188" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4SBOSRpXPJVu55aZMmT80-c3eyEVVpdSJ8cy9g3ari1S0fyLwALxV3Gdhed4pOFTVlMNchnD-rn9WVj8NKfF2vucz0IQW-3Febt4KfEvVhV0byBLvz-FXpwJDQi81DTQMoy4yGQ/s400/IMG_0735.JPG" width="400" /></a></div><br />
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The DFW Metroplex is known for it's donut (or doughnut) shops. Those that know have told me that in this region there are more donut shops per person than anywhere else on the planet. Almost every major strip center has a shop, with many intersections having 2 or 3. That must mean we know more about the fried pastry than almost anyone - choices abound and I have tried most. I have my normal pattern of hitting my favorite 2 or 3 on a fairly regular basis: Krispy Kreme, Shipley's and most recently Hypnotic to name 3. Add chocolate to a hot donut and you have the perfect breakfast.<br />
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For those living in Farmer's Branch, TX, this may not come as a shock or surprise, but for me, a North Dallasite, I feel like my whole donut world has been rocked. Today I found Jerry's.<br />
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Jerry's "chocolate 'filled' donuts" to be exact. As you can see, Jerry has conveniently filled the hole with his absolutely delicious chocolate icing. It is a different experience than a traditional chocolate iced donut. Jerry starts with an original glazed donut (a must for a great chocolate iced) and then adds the chocolate in the middle. Jerry's chocolate is terrific! My hats off to Jerry for this great concoction.<br />
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If you are in town for the Super Bowl, drop by and experience the other Jerry's world . Don't be confused by the outside, you won't find a taste like this at many other places in the country.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyEjDJf7HDwq6WUZYwSkUr3mHdWWGcWLqNx0RFHikGo1ZU4sqh5kja1VJrnm4LyMGCpvneFZnNTtk3pGnc4nbxPpgvsuCg5XdN5_aFbWo1piRVQyKl0iD_tayJWLw5EB2-7dB6iw/s1600/IMG_0748.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyEjDJf7HDwq6WUZYwSkUr3mHdWWGcWLqNx0RFHikGo1ZU4sqh5kja1VJrnm4LyMGCpvneFZnNTtk3pGnc4nbxPpgvsuCg5XdN5_aFbWo1piRVQyKl0iD_tayJWLw5EB2-7dB6iw/s200/IMG_0748.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><br />
</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-21184763045980197122011-01-21T15:26:00.000-08:002011-02-02T14:22:48.354-08:00Aspen: Paradise Bakery- a Aspen Institution.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LCD2arn65E556Fm-zEDWVyVLdBzmiUCVbagIy31_ldrOp9VnQLSYOhbxXPuhlslbRXAYG_mhpFDF1G12vsajTh9vPvp0xyzzgMcNvoMtEvqdOoGnRojZUzdloErE-mz7vzpvPw/s1600/P1010093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8LCD2arn65E556Fm-zEDWVyVLdBzmiUCVbagIy31_ldrOp9VnQLSYOhbxXPuhlslbRXAYG_mhpFDF1G12vsajTh9vPvp0xyzzgMcNvoMtEvqdOoGnRojZUzdloErE-mz7vzpvPw/s200/P1010093.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNS_98HyfTLJEjlaL7rAxd18_7_KRNzQFFBbCmcAvsqkkVQ_glR5X4a2IQ0EHZOxtT_P-_GJxcpRmB8ODxibHisgqpC67DDrUD4QTPxysWTv1StDQPmpUQUqj5vwvtD3lDQTyLiQ/s1600/P1010097.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNS_98HyfTLJEjlaL7rAxd18_7_KRNzQFFBbCmcAvsqkkVQ_glR5X4a2IQ0EHZOxtT_P-_GJxcpRmB8ODxibHisgqpC67DDrUD4QTPxysWTv1StDQPmpUQUqj5vwvtD3lDQTyLiQ/s200/P1010097.jpg" width="125" /></a>This is what Aspen is all about (for me).<br />
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EVERYONE in Aspen knows and has experienced Paradise Bakery. Summer or Winter, this place churns out some of the best brownies and cookies and ice cream that can be found anywhere.<br />
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This trip I only went once- we had so much chocolate from my Fancy Food show excursion, it wasn't right to add more to that mix.<br />
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Because of time constraints, I just got the basics- cream cheese and chocolate double fudge brownies and cookies- chocolate chip, triple chocolate and snicker-doodle. PB never changes! These delectables are the same goodness today as they were when I had my first about 30 years ago.<br />
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Oh yea, not chocolate but the cinnamon rolls are unbelievable too! : )<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-81370978526650934862011-01-20T15:21:00.000-08:002011-02-07T09:01:49.262-08:00Snow Mass: Waffle Shrine & such a Sweet Life + Hot Chocolate<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37Fb1ElGQjZfh8nYFh3dpkYCOCpyQKcuxKEhWu_5NZZKRbgbE5ajk1D0ra1nTWmMT1S8cGACzBKRnRYhFxo5aQTZSDHzXR6BHvNqonbR8410GLLf_RbsrT97nhAOrdQ5ijC1k3w/s1600/IMG_0709+-+Version+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg37Fb1ElGQjZfh8nYFh3dpkYCOCpyQKcuxKEhWu_5NZZKRbgbE5ajk1D0ra1nTWmMT1S8cGACzBKRnRYhFxo5aQTZSDHzXR6BHvNqonbR8410GLLf_RbsrT97nhAOrdQ5ijC1k3w/s200/IMG_0709+-+Version+2.jpg" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzi0qavK0nyUi5qvd78Jq8LBNv4BSBvTZqWOySad3uv9l6FcG_JsW4ULAlg38IqB23i7q1lrYtZy1wfeMKNn4tKFDypPmNbOJ6ZOgAPOf-SW4NeMoSuzOwi8GV9ydBIopJkB9XA/s1600/IMG_0703+-+Version+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrzi0qavK0nyUi5qvd78Jq8LBNv4BSBvTZqWOySad3uv9l6FcG_JsW4ULAlg38IqB23i7q1lrYtZy1wfeMKNn4tKFDypPmNbOJ6ZOgAPOf-SW4NeMoSuzOwi8GV9ydBIopJkB9XA/s200/IMG_0703+-+Version+2.jpg" width="200" /></a> Weather was terrific today, so I headed to the slopes for a few hours to get some skiing in. I can really work up an appetite for hot chocolate on the slopes but was so excited at the bottom of the hill to see two new places to eat more chocolate. <br />
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In the new Snowmass Base Village, you will find Sweet Life and Waffle Shrine. Waffle Shrine makes terrific waffles right at the entrance to the lift. You can get a little chocolate and whipped cream to add to this waffle treat. Good at breakfast or immediately after a hard day of skiing.<br />
The Sweet Life is a candy store complete with every type of chocolate, gummy, candy and ice cream just across the path from the Waffle Shrine. Great place to stock up for the slopes or to reload after you come off the mountain.<br />
After a few runs, I took a quick siesta from skiing with our good friend Gilian to enjoy some great hot chocolate at Sam's Smokehouse. We were about to go for cup 2, when her husband Steve aborted our mission- getting us back on the mountain for a group picture.<br />
Love Snowmass this time of year! <br />
<span id="goog_1114084851"></span><span id="goog_1114084852"></span></div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-65988075391961952462011-01-19T15:24:00.000-08:002011-02-02T12:55:53.950-08:00Aspen: CP Burger- great milkshake<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEdLH9Tc6sI4T7gdrinioNt079jWY3lOyoxb13yAlA6FWjCI9fkTlTZAzoy9NHPPXLLR-5DQFyS5Prv2gOPxrBlBP3RVTeVrfOL3hX1xfirwA4un_lW3u7I-yB7b7pF2-uG7UFg/s1600/IMG_0711.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEEdLH9Tc6sI4T7gdrinioNt079jWY3lOyoxb13yAlA6FWjCI9fkTlTZAzoy9NHPPXLLR-5DQFyS5Prv2gOPxrBlBP3RVTeVrfOL3hX1xfirwA4un_lW3u7I-yB7b7pF2-uG7UFg/s200/IMG_0711.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>Aspen has a new Burger joint. CP Burger at the ice rink serves up a really good hamburger and really great shakes.<br />
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I hadn't planed on ordering a shake but my friends Larry and Beth did and they handed one to me when the order hit the table.<br />
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Wow- this non-spiked shake was chocolate with oreo bits in it. <br />
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I'll certainly be ordering one next time!</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-30255374267776550692011-01-02T11:32:00.000-08:002011-02-05T05:48:34.771-08:00Fluffernutter with a different spin- chocolate.<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><i>From Wikipedia:</i> "A <b>fluffernutter</b> is a sandwich made with peanut butter and marshmallow creme. It is particularly popular in the Northeastern United States and has been proposed as the official Massachusetts state sandwich."<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafwmf1lsL2hd8rrhqjthNv__jlXcTVvWWKv8oLAuPqhVvTVFWHmOZeHDBuJif1KfHryobgNg-10FMRebPkAzDnC7Cy4mRiGjKehrIlUjjrQXaXfRmYdhY6qj1VfbBCvc0Q6KDmQ/s1600/IMG_3197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhafwmf1lsL2hd8rrhqjthNv__jlXcTVvWWKv8oLAuPqhVvTVFWHmOZeHDBuJif1KfHryobgNg-10FMRebPkAzDnC7Cy4mRiGjKehrIlUjjrQXaXfRmYdhY6qj1VfbBCvc0Q6KDmQ/s320/IMG_3197.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPUsJ3r5QbPYvYLPsFnPGmYyl4yx3lC9FgTB-5573gcAVD-4hu2gsqe3Q5Q55qGNqattgRkWXLs2ODY7_ZYY6n-Vr-UIvcRVmnqXNoRmCBOEwudLCtB5JqtuNsKpiiQdXkTuY4Iw/s1600/IMG_3197.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
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Chefs constantly tweak their recipes in the constant search for the perfect dish. My never ending search for finding ways to eat more chocolate led me to the kitchen and a twist to this old favorite sandwich.<br />
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Today I made my first fluffernutter sandwich of the year using Dark Chocolate Dreams peanut butter from Peanut Butter & Co. Adding chocolate to an already great sandwich recipe adds a really nice new chocolaty option to my lunch repertoire.<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-47208004014129684402010-12-29T12:42:00.000-08:002011-02-02T14:43:30.374-08:00Brenham: Blue Bell Creamery Factory Tour<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcblITFGHGUqmK1knm7o0kXFGoTHrKh9KWQjQHiyDNBurujtP0Da8rJkBjvdoa8Z7Fyl0v0eFKQy05U_r1Lqbwbh-KFo1IKTvRmfgdaAU37keQ9KVcoCFt9eT4txS2kbW1-u4LiQ/s1600/IMG_3221.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcblITFGHGUqmK1knm7o0kXFGoTHrKh9KWQjQHiyDNBurujtP0Da8rJkBjvdoa8Z7Fyl0v0eFKQy05U_r1Lqbwbh-KFo1IKTvRmfgdaAU37keQ9KVcoCFt9eT4txS2kbW1-u4LiQ/s200/IMG_3221.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRf9PRp0KfSEoV5qf1gpq0IngR0Vx_aib_b0dBwaKUDFmVKgGc7OZZUnwLzxOdHO3WIrA0bUOULTDBwiRmLlGBpHA2hoI94J6ULNGP8xAHX3TaFbCLV2BXLVt8UKzcrmEdXwpWxg/s1600/IMG_3217.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRf9PRp0KfSEoV5qf1gpq0IngR0Vx_aib_b0dBwaKUDFmVKgGc7OZZUnwLzxOdHO3WIrA0bUOULTDBwiRmLlGBpHA2hoI94J6ULNGP8xAHX3TaFbCLV2BXLVt8UKzcrmEdXwpWxg/s200/IMG_3217.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
I love Blue Bell Ice Cream! In Houston, I grew up on Blue Bell and really took it for granted. It wasn't until I moved away that I realized the whole world really doesn't know much about this great little company in the middle of nowhere.<br />
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For years I have wanted to revisit the Blue Bell Creamery in Brenham, Texas. The last time I visited was a cold night about 31 years ago when I was given a ride from Austin and dropped off a few hours before a morning opening. After my unscheduled mini camp out, I was encouraged to return to my fraternity house in Austin with as much "Cookies and Cream" ice cream as I could safely get back. Blue Bell created the first "Cookies and Cream" ice cream in the country and it wasn't available in Austin at the time.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_GAx5enkWVdIuX37IWqdUwJz_nrlZFXL-GKgQG5dFR75P6i7HFnfj7_ISjEQoOR4ZwmhSdxGN0WqJ6kNC83hvV83K9v06YR7atsHNkU_sOmkJpoGBUVupUu2ktCqdyVxHXGlFQ/s1600/IMG_3224.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4_GAx5enkWVdIuX37IWqdUwJz_nrlZFXL-GKgQG5dFR75P6i7HFnfj7_ISjEQoOR4ZwmhSdxGN0WqJ6kNC83hvV83K9v06YR7atsHNkU_sOmkJpoGBUVupUu2ktCqdyVxHXGlFQ/s200/IMG_3224.JPG" width="200" /></a> On this trip, circa 2010, my family and I took the tour and got to sample whatever we wanted at the end. I love this tour. Our guides were local girls from the area. They explained everything we wanted to know and more. The short film at the beginning of the tour reinforced Blue Bell's ties to the community around Brenham and their being a stickler for using only the best ingredients. Then it was on to see just how it is all made. Homemade Vanilla is on the line everyday. Other Flavors are made as needed on a 3 month schedule. We even watched the assembly of the mini- ice cream sandwiches. Everything looked so good. Nothing like fresh ice cream spinning and zipping into the container to get your taste buds rumbling.<br />
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"Krazy Kookie Dough" <span class="style2">(cake batter ice cream with chucks of kookie dough) was my sample choice and I was not disappointed. Not sold in grocery stores, this flavor is only found at ice cream parlors that feature Blue Bell. There is a small shop to get all kinds of other BB merchandise- t-shirts, bowls and other gifty stuff.</span><br />
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Surprisingly, little has changed at the little company that produces "the best ice cream in the country". It is fresh, fun and fantastic!<br />
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Certainly, well worth the trip to Brenham or your local grocery store (in 22 states).<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzdWAGgJxhXM7_ddJeZCX2O-BhsOncQuyFsMP00ga2ABklZiSkFskIHfz_O01mMG7hLOxNJapcgzVI' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe><br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-28294034038799341722010-12-20T18:56:00.000-08:002011-02-05T06:10:22.887-08:00Dallas: NHS (Neighborhood Services)- "The Ding Dong"<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Cx34SPBolIcs7P94KZSDs885Npk4bsq5xZsb5GRhEf6FD680zMBPaOzbyGWZ4tge1ssZo25ohYmHqFsQFR4tTlDdnQ5YQRvi6J2HgRj1elZCrCJXPLKqgErMCzZ7sKIlhUT1zA/s1600/IMG_0555.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="149" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4Cx34SPBolIcs7P94KZSDs885Npk4bsq5xZsb5GRhEf6FD680zMBPaOzbyGWZ4tge1ssZo25ohYmHqFsQFR4tTlDdnQ5YQRvi6J2HgRj1elZCrCJXPLKqgErMCzZ7sKIlhUT1zA/s200/IMG_0555.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I have a New Years resolution for 2011- "find more great Restaurant Chocolate Desserts". Tonight, I get a jump on the new year by introducing the "Ding Dong" from Neighborhood Services restaurant at Preston/ Royal in Dallas.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cUYMCToRJOAQNApx4L0XYFWbQPc-so2iRcLockCvshUfPvEZzGuhUDjbhFP2JJKPs9-MfDwBtcDVzSWkHOG9dwYEWc21NFumP2261p0SLQNAKx1MFPfeTr3fZR7okofdKc9hgw/s1600/IMG_0556.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="148" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0cUYMCToRJOAQNApx4L0XYFWbQPc-so2iRcLockCvshUfPvEZzGuhUDjbhFP2JJKPs9-MfDwBtcDVzSWkHOG9dwYEWc21NFumP2261p0SLQNAKx1MFPfeTr3fZR7okofdKc9hgw/s200/IMG_0556.JPG" width="200" /></a>Is NHS's fabulous creation a gourmet version of the Hostess "Ding Dong" or "Cupcake"? Being a childhood connoisseur of both, I have an opinion, but I'll hold that for another day. The most important thing is it is here and it is GOOD. This fabulous creation puts a gourmet twist to one of my chlidhood favorites. The white creamy filling is a perfect surprise when you cut into this decadent moist chocolate cake with ganache icing.<br />
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A must have after a terrific dinner. <br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-84753971430622245272010-12-14T23:00:00.000-08:002011-02-02T10:29:27.272-08:00Houston: Dessert Gallery- 15 years and better than ever<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span id="goog_1220321678"></span><span id="goog_1220321679"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkwjz-fyTn2v1tVeunbFvLYoQwJkPCOXxUoBBTC6shWrdrLcgo8dNf8ZXPH5mKissv6q-hI9FK8Mg5_FMJGvUZW3hAkmH4qmBwM8jRcYRANE_D-Mv1R10fKdqWYZ6cp4-SqablQ/s1600/IMG_3165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGkwjz-fyTn2v1tVeunbFvLYoQwJkPCOXxUoBBTC6shWrdrLcgo8dNf8ZXPH5mKissv6q-hI9FK8Mg5_FMJGvUZW3hAkmH4qmBwM8jRcYRANE_D-Mv1R10fKdqWYZ6cp4-SqablQ/s200/IMG_3165.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
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Sara Brook is a GENIUS! As she admits, she is not classically trained. She just has been doing it since she was a kid-not that long ago- but long enough to have created one of the finest assortment of chocolate items cakes on the planet.<br />
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Since 1995, Sara and her crew have been rolling out desserts that have inspired and delighted her customers. I have been a frequent guest of the original store on Kirby- this trip I decided to drop in to the Post Oak restaurant.<br />
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As I have mentioned in previous posts, I have always longed to own a dessert restaurant. 15 years after first experiencing the Dessert Gallery, I find that Sara has continued to improve this concept far exceeding all of my wildest dreams for such a venture. True to her craft she is consistent- Consistently Perfect!<br />
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<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dessert Gallery has a full range of desserts and cafe items: sandwiches, salads, wraps, soups, quiche, casseroles and, of course, desserts: cakes, pies, cookies, cupcake, truffles and brownies. Very nice offering and the food is original, fresh and from the finest of ingredients.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwqiaeXagwFaHahPkKvM7F520FymZIvmpZJmoI2WN9OBN5sART6kruTbhh2pUXJKoTHYESfiOLupII' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe> I am particularly drawn to her chocolate cake creations (no surprise there) and I don't think there is another baker in the world that has as many original and fantastic chocolate cake choices: Old-Fashioned Diner Cake, Mom's Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Euphoria, Chip-Off-the-old Block, Jennifer's Birthday Cake, Truffle Candy Cake, Everyone's Favorite Mousse Cake, The Bog O, Chocolate, Chocolate Cheesecake, White Concorde Cake and Chocolate Concorde Cake...</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These are so unbelievably Good, let me try and describe them to you:</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Old-Fashioned Diner Cake</b> is hard to find. Golden (yellow) cake with milk chocolate buttercream icing is never found in a restaurant anymore. This one is Heaven. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Mom's Chocolate Cake</b> is one of the best old fashioned chocolate cakes ever created. Just like my grandmothers- chocolate cake with milk chocolate buttercream icing. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Chocolate Euphoria</b> is a rich dark chocolate cake with chocolate chunks and a dark chocolate ganache icing. Sooo Good.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Chip-Off-the-old Block </b>is a yellow cake<b> </b>with chocolate chunks and a dark chocolate ganache icing. Excellent!</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Jennifer's Birthday Cake </b>chocolate cake with a "fudge" filling and iced with milk chocolate buttercream icing. This gives "Mom's" a run for its money.<b><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Truffle Candy Cake </b>is a gooey chocolate cake now filled with "dulce de leche" and pecans and iced with milk chocolate buttercream.<b> </b>I think this recipe has changed a bit and only gotten better. Chocolate and oozing caramel together- there is nothing better.<b></b><br />
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</b></div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Everyone's Favorite Mousse Cake</b> is exactly what it is named- Gorgeous and Delicious cold chocolate mousse<b>, </b>whipped cream, chocolate curls and an exceptional chocolate cookie crust.<b><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>The Big O</b>- here is the perfect decedent mousse dessert. White chocolate mousse, Dark chocolate mousse and Oreo's. Now this is a perfect combination. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Chocolate Cheesecake</b> is great chocolate cheesecake. This one is so smooth I had to step back and question if it was cheesecake or mousse.<b> </b>Unbeatable!<b><br />
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</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>White </b><b>Concorde Cake + </b><b>Dark Concorde Cake. </b>I did not try these at the store but in reviewing the website, I found them; and they look so appealing, I had to mention them. A cake with "layers of chocolate meringue and chocolate mousse" or "white meringue and white chocolate mousse blend into one divine dessert." Sounds almost too good to be true. After I sample on a future order, I'll update and review but I can't think of a better combination... <b><br />
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Dessert Gallery- so much to eat so little time. Sara- after 15 years you continue to blow me away!<br />
Congrats.. Can't wait to see what's next! <br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-43977180545285494132010-12-13T19:30:00.000-08:002011-02-02T08:46:24.106-08:00Houston: The Chocolate Bar- Village People<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMn_s5kys3SzkhDd_EDZtrup8CzG3AR8b_0ZTPpMArST43l3Ow2DdBG27j9p0q-FCzHNCpsXOefpIHWyvvtNP2DzT4T6YOCvEkEYFGeMsV1qJEpGDCIh-dFNXCgvl8wJn_ieDDBg/s1600/IMG_3151.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMn_s5kys3SzkhDd_EDZtrup8CzG3AR8b_0ZTPpMArST43l3Ow2DdBG27j9p0q-FCzHNCpsXOefpIHWyvvtNP2DzT4T6YOCvEkEYFGeMsV1qJEpGDCIh-dFNXCgvl8wJn_ieDDBg/s200/IMG_3151.JPG" width="200" /></a></div><br />
It has been several years since I last visited The Chocolate Bar. This trip, I stopped in their location in the Village (near Rice University).<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvlPt__BZIbmGkP9qSoa_sVifFQkakgXAwnYektMEbClp2w2XM9Xmf3P9AywF0SRGfmrQGOGT9NuRsXcenbYgiKICrmHwvCOaQG6rXkEoF_-p6zZ8dmbrxvwAZMfpLn75EWhUDQ/s1600/IMG_3156.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOvlPt__BZIbmGkP9qSoa_sVifFQkakgXAwnYektMEbClp2w2XM9Xmf3P9AywF0SRGfmrQGOGT9NuRsXcenbYgiKICrmHwvCOaQG6rXkEoF_-p6zZ8dmbrxvwAZMfpLn75EWhUDQ/s200/IMG_3156.JPG" width="200" /></a>I really like this concept. I think it is the most complete chocolate shop I have ever visited. It has everything one could ask for to resolve a chocolate fix. They make their own stuff: cakes, confections, novelties, dipped and drizzled popcorn, fruits and cookies, made to order chocolate bars and pizza, ice cream & more and everything is terrific!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQo8EAO1RuufVsDcpcfdKdZzNek8J8PqmYFmU3kQrt5mYmrzQLqQNy-E91XoFkhKQ1knznt_ig7wyBbbvSCdhaaSNkSMmPvPFecObJ0QshYPvo1mNJ_w3raxoP_4GWiF6E-vDyKg/s1600/IMG_3162.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQo8EAO1RuufVsDcpcfdKdZzNek8J8PqmYFmU3kQrt5mYmrzQLqQNy-E91XoFkhKQ1knznt_ig7wyBbbvSCdhaaSNkSMmPvPFecObJ0QshYPvo1mNJ_w3raxoP_4GWiF6E-vDyKg/s200/IMG_3162.jpg" width="150" /></a> <br />
I particularly liked designing my own chocolate bar complete with my personal favorite choices. This time I chose a small milk chocolate bar with M&Ms, Marshmallows and chocolate rocks "mix ins"... delicious. It took less than 30 minutes, with a line. Next time, I want to try the pizza.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8XAJOBrMGuxv-PjfFanK2gTjVQLaS5JQNbI7AMkIr7Wbt1LBO61YD_sfDAIYsUKOPbqTLxB92evJf9fY8hnioNKUmV_HMq9LtFZrE8tejS7JU4vRORUDSXK8WKKelxf2UK-3tA/s1600/IMG_3159.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgp8XAJOBrMGuxv-PjfFanK2gTjVQLaS5JQNbI7AMkIr7Wbt1LBO61YD_sfDAIYsUKOPbqTLxB92evJf9fY8hnioNKUmV_HMq9LtFZrE8tejS7JU4vRORUDSXK8WKKelxf2UK-3tA/s200/IMG_3159.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
I sampled the chocolate ice cream and was quite impressed. The line was long to sit for dessert so I just admired the cakes on display. They looked amazing.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9iE8j4l8U8Y89Co-2b_WHDrgQA1KgfEtsGp-_0U2_vgJ_EjglnIdG1EGqpOkyE8mcwlOWqA3pviIbDlQRPIscxiciP05MCZR8FTW694-W2OAyDFlEuhBmuylt8TrJL5A5exNNA/s1600/IMG_3158.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiB9iE8j4l8U8Y89Co-2b_WHDrgQA1KgfEtsGp-_0U2_vgJ_EjglnIdG1EGqpOkyE8mcwlOWqA3pviIbDlQRPIscxiciP05MCZR8FTW694-W2OAyDFlEuhBmuylt8TrJL5A5exNNA/s200/IMG_3158.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>I picked up some novelties to take home to the kids: a chocolate tennis racket set for Jeffrey, hair dryer, mirror & other chocolate bathroom items for Samantha and 2 chocolate guitars for Max- Big hits when I gave them out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2FSC6SGHihGqqw-lbdBX6RFFKnhPdlqo3HC4ve4q4y2VTMro9SBUnaR62DpMvVb5bB8zkSpyu2zYFCwTb95yCkmk-X_FsnQO5T9kqUUEyVybwPUN_Sxw-JRlZRxIP_cOlUWi8A/s1600/IMG_3157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2FSC6SGHihGqqw-lbdBX6RFFKnhPdlqo3HC4ve4q4y2VTMro9SBUnaR62DpMvVb5bB8zkSpyu2zYFCwTb95yCkmk-X_FsnQO5T9kqUUEyVybwPUN_Sxw-JRlZRxIP_cOlUWi8A/s200/IMG_3157.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD2FSC6SGHihGqqw-lbdBX6RFFKnhPdlqo3HC4ve4q4y2VTMro9SBUnaR62DpMvVb5bB8zkSpyu2zYFCwTb95yCkmk-X_FsnQO5T9kqUUEyVybwPUN_Sxw-JRlZRxIP_cOlUWi8A/s1600/IMG_3157.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a>I also took a goody bag for the drive home and loved every bit of the chocolate covered Oreos, pretzels and flakes (couldn't tell if they started off as corn or frosted).<br />
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All in all, a fun visit. I will definitely be back for more on my next visit to Houston.<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-6217375761951385702010-12-12T18:30:00.000-08:002011-01-27T13:43:41.558-08:00Houston: Chocolat Du Monde<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawyTcM81NK72BhriYDxg66_Lc02goKT4tDAIpkAAO1oCCLLqxFLi6l-aiRErLHjX1ZRaFuV4av5AO1Qludv_fUROsBp2qeETAd_M18BhK9FdrgDmG7ydtnjgPq2h48zDhj3OYVg/s1600/IMG_3144.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhawyTcM81NK72BhriYDxg66_Lc02goKT4tDAIpkAAO1oCCLLqxFLi6l-aiRErLHjX1ZRaFuV4av5AO1Qludv_fUROsBp2qeETAd_M18BhK9FdrgDmG7ydtnjgPq2h48zDhj3OYVg/s200/IMG_3144.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnbup5f0miRvCB4Dm9FiK0okzd8AmMbNQO0dRjILwp8_Z0nHZ7y0EdxOmwowlUxoonmuRd8eRyLiA46GRoQlJp4oNyifupgtimZBhKdFnkJj8HkHx4u5f5ekvc34fyiqIZwYZPg/s1600/IMG_3149.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWnbup5f0miRvCB4Dm9FiK0okzd8AmMbNQO0dRjILwp8_Z0nHZ7y0EdxOmwowlUxoonmuRd8eRyLiA46GRoQlJp4oNyifupgtimZBhKdFnkJj8HkHx4u5f5ekvc34fyiqIZwYZPg/s200/IMG_3149.JPG" width="200" /></a>Located in the Village near Rice University, when I went running into Chocolat du Monde, I was on a mission. Their chocolate, as the name implies, is from all over the world- Neuhaus, Leonidas, and more. They also have a pretty extensive general candy business- but today, all I wanted was their private label home-made Fudge. <br />
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I had a long drive back to Dallas and I wanted to nosh. The plain Chocolate Fudge may not be their most exotic product, but it certainly hit the spot and it was delicious.<br />
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Chocolat Du Monde has such a variety and it never disappoints.<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-46871584776364145712010-12-10T17:00:00.000-08:002011-01-27T13:14:22.599-08:00Houston: Araya @ River Oaks Center<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8j0FBu1Qy-Rb7qhE1jOSQ4Aa8XB53q6gNslzQ9e4SgpKPFDWT34Uks-Taxs5MttbkPeB5m8vRnIQ2pAab4h-V_-M6_13rzXTCsrNP8zGSYALC9kiIwep3HxSRZxuyPyTwnjrnw/s1600/IMG_3139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil8j0FBu1Qy-Rb7qhE1jOSQ4Aa8XB53q6gNslzQ9e4SgpKPFDWT34Uks-Taxs5MttbkPeB5m8vRnIQ2pAab4h-V_-M6_13rzXTCsrNP8zGSYALC9kiIwep3HxSRZxuyPyTwnjrnw/s200/IMG_3139.jpg" width="150" /></a></div><br />
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I was excited to visit Araya Artisan Chocolates in River Oaks Shopping Center next to the theater.<br />
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This center brings back huge memories. It was part of my old stomping grounds- actually came to this spot to a restaurant called Birraporetti's on my first "driving" date. Same shopping center was the site where I bought my first alcoholic drink (when it was legal at 18) from a no name bar under a stair case. Actually, the bar was called Marfreless- couches, quiet, dark, fun- and it still is operating today??!!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0VSPQQYf5VuShqDjOCIt2xmLvNcCcYIK7YsPTK3RHDWnOhsCljrO46DueUouTtxC6AMHjq07qL5V_Kx0C20iudzK41XBShbUVfglyMMkvxGsVQkb8ngdhEExV2MnkGckm_FwJg/s1600/IMG_3141.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjC0VSPQQYf5VuShqDjOCIt2xmLvNcCcYIK7YsPTK3RHDWnOhsCljrO46DueUouTtxC6AMHjq07qL5V_Kx0C20iudzK41XBShbUVfglyMMkvxGsVQkb8ngdhEExV2MnkGckm_FwJg/s200/IMG_3141.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNQCwCRLrLF3d-ZXiCOcqLPMkUWfNakFDX6zKd7Z1nFI_2fVGymVrAMq1OM8V0eChvD4wvmG2DV_t07_hA88CqTEApazILpgOPrFtpeO7dFlyg_QesHkicB-hzslq99ewc7-pq4Q/s1600/IMG_3143.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>This visit was all about getting to know a fairly new Venezuelan chocolate shop called Araya Artisan Chocolates. Upon arrival, I was lucky to immediately meet owner chocolatier Carla Susi.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEWvnFEXcOu4KiZuIg30ZAr4cju6XCz3trKvFxXOQ_fZ3O2t9ryP1LaSOpK98QaMZH22snkc4Pneq4zmx3Bo0SjQnr7FThhyIv8GotC03hX5i2xFmf_LfDcIUYeTUT53s7LRGtA/s1600/IMG_3214.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFEWvnFEXcOu4KiZuIg30ZAr4cju6XCz3trKvFxXOQ_fZ3O2t9ryP1LaSOpK98QaMZH22snkc4Pneq4zmx3Bo0SjQnr7FThhyIv8GotC03hX5i2xFmf_LfDcIUYeTUT53s7LRGtA/s200/IMG_3214.JPG" width="200" /></a>Interesting tidbits of information about Araya: they don't use sugar, they use honey to naturally sweeten the ganache; they make Venezuelan 100% dark and a dark-milk chocolate; the store, the packaging, the chocolate and the people who work here are beautiful.<br />
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I sampled quite a few favorites from their collections. I really enjoyed from the milk chocolates- Venezuelan 41%, Hazelnut Praline, Hazelnut Truffle and Keylime. From the dark chocolate collection- Pink Salt, Strawberry Balsamic, Salty Caramel Rum, Peanut Butter & Berry and Chai Spice.<br />
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This is the real deal! Fantástico!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzYdoYWsXLzkkxDy9ZBJlazBExa0qa6_fU2XXSl7Ldnt5FM0rCg6EgHab8uY0eNYLOS61R3dRlFCg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>:</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-40890446938564737262010-12-09T16:14:00.000-08:002011-01-26T14:56:53.769-08:00Houston: Keggs Candies- A Houston Institution<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVAXBWE-JCOjL8iOajQddlPK0s1CNcOKUgiFc3iEm6dd9qQ0KSb_xz5H0H2phjkD6bbbITrtmp1ul_iKfI5UY6X50fsL5Clh0B-dtpCn4ES01SbyPXGsmJ85siwgLbARPLkxDdQ/s1600/IMG_3130.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGVAXBWE-JCOjL8iOajQddlPK0s1CNcOKUgiFc3iEm6dd9qQ0KSb_xz5H0H2phjkD6bbbITrtmp1ul_iKfI5UY6X50fsL5Clh0B-dtpCn4ES01SbyPXGsmJ85siwgLbARPLkxDdQ/s200/IMG_3130.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Keggs has it all. Since 1946, this Houston institution has been pumping out everything from their original "Pecan Crisp" and chocolate confections to fudge and most recently custard.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkLViovsMGHY9QX7InQ-n1AuQK_MzHJ1k-82XecXh7ZyvHR3_YLC202by_WFBSMTw5L9RNoHAn_XVq1MbYOqUT2X67knAsa_7xzqm96CYCn0dMVc-OqL_hQ_gzBouCJ6vQpkoSg/s1600/IMG_3131.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxkLViovsMGHY9QX7InQ-n1AuQK_MzHJ1k-82XecXh7ZyvHR3_YLC202by_WFBSMTw5L9RNoHAn_XVq1MbYOqUT2X67knAsa_7xzqm96CYCn0dMVc-OqL_hQ_gzBouCJ6vQpkoSg/s200/IMG_3131.JPG" width="200" /></a>I ate a small football ( I really did) while I visited this trip and consumed half a slab of Chocolate Fudge on my drive around the city. Although the original store in the Village is gone, my childhood
memories of that store come flooding back as I walk the new state of the
art factory store on Westpark. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVSqTx0wa3unc6kdHRxrBKPY1N-dkKIsQsdhW5fNdkJKmb9QlZqXAu7RYnHl-WZcgwFEP9fudSUmBGIVef_Ub_e2LYVo0mFlf-RpxJGSq_Mj-lX-IUpBBYeKB_tWtpqfdwnTocww/s1600/IMG_3135.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVSqTx0wa3unc6kdHRxrBKPY1N-dkKIsQsdhW5fNdkJKmb9QlZqXAu7RYnHl-WZcgwFEP9fudSUmBGIVef_Ub_e2LYVo0mFlf-RpxJGSq_Mj-lX-IUpBBYeKB_tWtpqfdwnTocww/s200/IMG_3135.JPG" width="200" /></a>I loved
slowly walking the 90 foot long glass wall and seeing the line where
they still hand make most of these terrific goodies.<br />
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The truffles are quite large and very tasty.<br />
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The Pecan Hash combines my favorite ingredients and was so fresh.<br />
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I would be remiss to not mention great Chocolate Caramel treats, too <br />
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I'm not sure how many full service chocolate factory tours there are in Houston, but this one is a great place to start.<br />
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After all of these years, Keggs is still going strong and is still among the best.<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-4095758584532660682010-12-08T14:45:00.000-08:002010-12-17T15:55:18.222-08:00Houston: Chocolate Pizazz- Hall of Fame<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWr6BzmLoMFZp6miF8Y8wSixhnWmIQfqkp058SCvirkJGpEviloaT9nwn-IbVp5llkdR0vequRUHJ_NQw2tAF2ZtbgTr3bSy6iy-dDxiiBNKPDN5fNhkXP_E2FM6Op0srATSXdg/s1600/IMG_3128.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeWr6BzmLoMFZp6miF8Y8wSixhnWmIQfqkp058SCvirkJGpEviloaT9nwn-IbVp5llkdR0vequRUHJ_NQw2tAF2ZtbgTr3bSy6iy-dDxiiBNKPDN5fNhkXP_E2FM6Op0srATSXdg/s200/IMG_3128.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
I love shows like "TBIEA", "Triple D", and "MvF". If you are a foodie, you know what I am talking about, if not see below*. I even fantasize about having my own show like them one day.<br />
: )<br />
<br />
Every time I watch TBIEA, I always think- could I say that "this" or "that" is the best I ever ate? Well, I found one place that fits that bill. Chocolate Pizazz in Houston!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaeVPmcmRbE-XAQNKZmOMKV9ksmNw40YpuCfLyS6TnFvv5TDlTN_Lq4MSJLJ9EvulmXFxOXDergGdBcsNJkdhSZIN0PCopP5Es8VDtvVjXzC6_QdCIYJn5EclvK6lapMNu1oYDfA/s1600/0404_0101_A.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaeVPmcmRbE-XAQNKZmOMKV9ksmNw40YpuCfLyS6TnFvv5TDlTN_Lq4MSJLJ9EvulmXFxOXDergGdBcsNJkdhSZIN0PCopP5Es8VDtvVjXzC6_QdCIYJn5EclvK6lapMNu1oYDfA/s200/0404_0101_A.JPG" width="200" /></a>Helen and Jeri have created a special chocolate plant in the heart of Memorial that requires me shouting from the highest mountain top. To bad Houston is flat!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACOlpKppGoNvJdneA2DfDaYMi9yN9x6ZmpWq7FKT5KFOr08EOd5VFyRnRLPovGweXCCCJgLSTcL6Z-_rlr0Beqj-21GV61iZjpcTsYQSGeVSv-x9X6rMftEvIK-b4o2YLjDE38A/s1600/0404-0205_A_sm.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjACOlpKppGoNvJdneA2DfDaYMi9yN9x6ZmpWq7FKT5KFOr08EOd5VFyRnRLPovGweXCCCJgLSTcL6Z-_rlr0Beqj-21GV61iZjpcTsYQSGeVSv-x9X6rMftEvIK-b4o2YLjDE38A/s200/0404-0205_A_sm.JPG" width="200" /></a>It started as something to do when their kids were in school. Now it is a real business and they know what they are doing.<br />
<br />
They mix chocolate with and on and around everthing that I love and they put so much on the goodies that it seems like they re-wrap the chocolate again and again.<br />
<br />
I think everything I tried, may have been the best I ever ate in that category. <br />
<br />
This is not artisan chocolate truffles. This is real food!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQp3a3aXhykDcTwhPkOPPoO3e7Qugx7W1jj5Kj1O3AVyXAv2qF1rlQ1vfewejF4tPMrefwcRT4w3OYMEWXKytRxyJTJqmoVgRE3WaXl7zsL5vk8r05Y95-V5MEOVnoHqaZHOptw/s1600/0414_011_AB_sm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEQp3a3aXhykDcTwhPkOPPoO3e7Qugx7W1jj5Kj1O3AVyXAv2qF1rlQ1vfewejF4tPMrefwcRT4w3OYMEWXKytRxyJTJqmoVgRE3WaXl7zsL5vk8r05Y95-V5MEOVnoHqaZHOptw/s200/0414_011_AB_sm.jpg" width="200" /></a>Popcorn, Oreos (not just regular but double stuff), marshmallows, moon pies, pretzels... I can't stop. Not only are they soaked in unbelievable chocolate but then here comes the huge amount of toppings, masterfully loaded all around: M&Ms, toffee, colored sugar, butterscotch chips, drizzled chocolate, chocolate chips, peanut butter chips... getting the picture?<br />
<br />
"Celebration" is the best mash of stuff on Popcorn I think I have ever found on the planet. The Pepermint Chocolate Bark is also one of the best, ever!<br />
<br />
No one uses double stuff Oreos but these gals do and they are using somebody's high end chocolate (a trade secret)... put them together and WOW. I must stop writing now or I will have to get back in the car and drive 4 hours to get more... It is available online. <br />
<br />
If you ever need to give a fun chocolate gift, go online and buy it here!<br />
<br />
Tell them I sent you!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*<br />
TBIEA- "The Best I Ever Ate" - Food Network<br />
Triple D- "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives" - Food Network<br />
MvF- "Man vs. Food"- Travel Channel<br />
<br />
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</div>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-5279150356579621742010-12-08T13:15:00.000-08:002010-12-17T14:46:56.950-08:00Houston: The Chocolate Lounge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLi3PkxMQtW2Ledr6XGbp6xp0ICeHu6CS3zPkavM_pkB1Qr1SJ2zdKtVMHwF9liMvtOI_JaYJE9R4LXlk_F8urVt7UNb1__TNYBfJYaa3lQPKX4xA-k9pAPLUZ0G0I_SsVUfbCng/s1600/IMG_3122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLi3PkxMQtW2Ledr6XGbp6xp0ICeHu6CS3zPkavM_pkB1Qr1SJ2zdKtVMHwF9liMvtOI_JaYJE9R4LXlk_F8urVt7UNb1__TNYBfJYaa3lQPKX4xA-k9pAPLUZ0G0I_SsVUfbCng/s200/IMG_3122.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
Old Town Spring, Texas has character, even in the daytime. I can only image its fun at night or on the weekends. I had no idea this little enclave of cool shops and restaurants even existed under the flight path to Bush Intercontinental Airport, a stones throw from the Woodlands.<br />
<br />
Avery Smith could be the Mayor of Old Town. She grew up in this area and suggested
several other places to visit before I headed back to the freeway and on
to Houston- a real ambassador if the area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WwZ45kMlslxUNe_RHIr8cjdICNfm5i049gP_Th8WWEjy3PwXEGbSey-y9RuCdVwWTgoCGRHXREP1L-cvv1DCNOFRJstzE6G4xDsJhKf2NB1Hm6v7BsdBKIgUCCv1UCMm7_5t6A/s1600/IMG_3203.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9WwZ45kMlslxUNe_RHIr8cjdICNfm5i049gP_Th8WWEjy3PwXEGbSey-y9RuCdVwWTgoCGRHXREP1L-cvv1DCNOFRJstzE6G4xDsJhKf2NB1Hm6v7BsdBKIgUCCv1UCMm7_5t6A/s200/IMG_3203.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtm-rC46am9MZIygxgHhkJwF7MbirgVzPj9hXBVGaqwLR2y0IJF_0k2D2SNNFC-uGZJIg_qgiz0Mt2kvUnZGXEnr6AbBHtawDyKVW2QY0qT9NtJEeM5RwPhLjlrqADwjSMIIdBg/s1600/IMG_3123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwtm-rC46am9MZIygxgHhkJwF7MbirgVzPj9hXBVGaqwLR2y0IJF_0k2D2SNNFC-uGZJIg_qgiz0Mt2kvUnZGXEnr6AbBHtawDyKVW2QY0qT9NtJEeM5RwPhLjlrqADwjSMIIdBg/s200/IMG_3123.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
But the reason I stopped, wasn't for a tour of Spring, it was to sample what I had heard was terrific chocolate that she makes or imports- and it was well worth the stop. I really enjoyed meeting Avery. She is the real deal. "The
Chocolate Lounge is boutique style chocolate shop" and so much more. They host showers and parties. Her love for the area, chocolate and people comes through in her little shop.<br />
Her chocolates are also something for people to crow about.<br />
<br />
Amongst the goodies I tried were Smoked Venezuelan Maracaibo Chocolate w/Red Hawaiian Sea Salt- excellent.<br />
<br />
Apamate Patron Cigar Chocolate, a Dark Chocolate Infused with the essence of a Padron 64 and made into the ultimate Port Chocolate- very unique.<br />
<br />
Hood River Dark Cherry Pinot Truffles, Pinot infused Cherries blended with dark chocolate ganache to compliment a great Pinot Noir<br />
<br />
3- Bean Truffle (Vanilla, Cocoa, Coffee), Mint Oreo Cookie Bite, Peppermint Bark Bon Bon, Toffee Bon Bon- Excellent!<br />
<br />
There is a lot more to The Chocolate Lounge than these treats, with plans to grow, so stop by and enjoy.Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-52026496892817658612010-12-08T12:30:00.000-08:002010-12-17T13:59:54.324-08:00Conroe: Chocolate Passion<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEC3DNfiT7aZA-7kAaeOxCqcrU1d7mXNLQooCAqom4QKs75TcDTCOOuJiYvqTFn-RQMgzDdaovlVeIbMDc3T86tpGKOcd3p8pI-kKp4a-6tYTBtCkyt6Elb0_8qs3Gr4hYz6PwqQ/s1600/IMG_3117.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEC3DNfiT7aZA-7kAaeOxCqcrU1d7mXNLQooCAqom4QKs75TcDTCOOuJiYvqTFn-RQMgzDdaovlVeIbMDc3T86tpGKOcd3p8pI-kKp4a-6tYTBtCkyt6Elb0_8qs3Gr4hYz6PwqQ/s200/IMG_3117.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh742Ye_4VenXPA3i0dYAK4Adr2gVhIpiE6yymtmpyKO0gvRyt3Q_QyJoXCF7ye5aOsov5_tG5-r-BktsuIf2TyVOy3pseHFgL8RBy1OUfZTOeMhzSWGz7wn51_kjTlk8HuGI_UZQ/s1600/IMG_3211.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh742Ye_4VenXPA3i0dYAK4Adr2gVhIpiE6yymtmpyKO0gvRyt3Q_QyJoXCF7ye5aOsov5_tG5-r-BktsuIf2TyVOy3pseHFgL8RBy1OUfZTOeMhzSWGz7wn51_kjTlk8HuGI_UZQ/s200/IMG_3211.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTzxrK-DqqVjp9nOl3d9g90Z8Ibnt-4_2cLjz1mhpU2TP4cU9Djbdmd-CRCeSNKEmEysWcM3esJ7xA4RMijXkhbhlfE9260U-ruvMkaKegbKppXiXRdqq__5BDVEJFYS4NvYraA/s1600/IMG_3119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTzxrK-DqqVjp9nOl3d9g90Z8Ibnt-4_2cLjz1mhpU2TP4cU9Djbdmd-CRCeSNKEmEysWcM3esJ7xA4RMijXkhbhlfE9260U-ruvMkaKegbKppXiXRdqq__5BDVEJFYS4NvYraA/s200/IMG_3119.JPG" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcXF_C5ygg-itnPw4pWYhf6DffUxVitT7yVb0Sra5H1f3ByyhIRbtDdICs07cwRiqn9uJkE27M5-JtRNzeUWinc3tH-BWmk7T5XrdJuyYe6ZpNfc9f3LcLdnOytyA0jaG5Re_Kw/s1600/IMG_3118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQTzxrK-DqqVjp9nOl3d9g90Z8Ibnt-4_2cLjz1mhpU2TP4cU9Djbdmd-CRCeSNKEmEysWcM3esJ7xA4RMijXkhbhlfE9260U-ruvMkaKegbKppXiXRdqq__5BDVEJFYS4NvYraA/s1600/IMG_3119.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcXF_C5ygg-itnPw4pWYhf6DffUxVitT7yVb0Sra5H1f3ByyhIRbtDdICs07cwRiqn9uJkE27M5-JtRNzeUWinc3tH-BWmk7T5XrdJuyYe6ZpNfc9f3LcLdnOytyA0jaG5Re_Kw/s1600/IMG_3118.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcXF_C5ygg-itnPw4pWYhf6DffUxVitT7yVb0Sra5H1f3ByyhIRbtDdICs07cwRiqn9uJkE27M5-JtRNzeUWinc3tH-BWmk7T5XrdJuyYe6ZpNfc9f3LcLdnOytyA0jaG5Re_Kw/s200/IMG_3118.JPG" width="200" /></a>I love finding chocolate places that are a little off the beaten path. I also love finding fellow chocolate lovers that are willing to put it out there for people to eat, knowing it may never be seen by the vast majority of people that pass by.<br />
<br />
Chocolate Passion in Conroe, Texas is not on the busy I-45 Freeway. It isn't in a strip center with other shops and restaurants. It is all alone on a fairly small road that you have to want to find and I am really<br />
glad that I did.<br />
<br />
I didn't have time to eat at the restaurant but I did get to sample the fantastic Venezuelan chocolates that Zulay Quinn perfects in the kitchen in the back. <br />
<br />
The Mint Truffle is a dark chocolate ganache with a really nice hint of real mint, not peppermint. <br />
<br />
The Amaretto Truffle had just the right amount of the liqueur. Very good!<br />
<br />
One can never go wrong with the Milk Chocolate soft Caramel. Very smooth!<br />
<br />
The Dark Chocolate Cocoa Dusted Truffle was Rich!!<br />
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If you are ever passing through Conroe and need a fix, this is definately worth the stop.<br />
<br />
Leyda and Zulay were terrific hosts, can't wait to go back for lunch at the restaurant. I overheard some patrons saying the sandwiches are amongst the best in town.Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10263101.post-38721123554867740132010-12-08T11:00:00.000-08:002010-12-17T13:36:22.283-08:00Corsicana: Collin Street Bakery<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dz6xijzgYbHGxsX7mFtxCTSDqrE97rTYkEH9X8icKfjwN-eTceLE6pfno3E_NblF3nTI6ZTwCJj2UU' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<br /><br />
Have you ever eaten or received a fruitcake? If you have, I bet it came from the Collin Street Bakery in Corsicana, Texas. This family owned business has been delivering fruitcakes to customers since 1896. The company sells about 3 million pounds of fruitcake each year, which equates to 1.5 million individual cakes- and it is all sold mail order from Corsicana. CSB also has a 3000 acre <span class="Apple-style-span">organic pineapple operation<b> </b></span>farm, restaurant and tourist center in Costa Rica. <br />
<br />
Why am I telling you this? Although 98% of their sales is fruitcakes, they also make a mean Fudge Pie. It is delicious and available to non-fruitcake eaters that still want something great from this venerable I-45 Texas Institution.<br />
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<i>Little known fact about Corsicana, TX. Situated about 50 miles south of Dallas, in addition to being the fruitcake capital of the world, Corsicana is where both Mobil Oil and Texaco were founded. </i>Joe H.http://www.blogger.com/profile/01472043642278036870noreply@blogger.com0