Surprise your kids this Easter — or just give spring a big sweet hello — by going all out in the chocolate department.
A local gem with an ace supply? Birmingham Chocolate, which offers up colorful seasonal favorites. Be warned, though: It’s super busy leading up to the official Sunday holiday date.
The main draw at this shop is “the rarity of local, handmade chocolate, in an open kitchen concept where you’re actually able to see your chocolate being made,” says chocolate ambassador (yes, that’s actually her title!) Elle Cabot.
During the 2020 season, due to the coronavirus, curbside service is offered on all orders, which can be placed by phone or email.
Picture-perfect picks
Spruce up that basket with a few of Cabot’s favorites. “As always, there are handmade artisan chocolates,” Cabot says.
For starters, nab some springtime bonbon flavors. Five specialty options include acai blueberry, key lime, lemon marshmallow, margarita ganache and pomberry — a dark chocolate with a pomegranate cranberry ganache. They’re $1.59 each.
The color-spattered chocolate eggs pictured above are another delicious way to go. A pack of three is $15.
Prefer a classic approach? Browse a variety of Easter bunnies in different chocolate outfits and motifs, from farmers in overalls and bowties to gold-coated critters. The bunnies run $10-$18 for standard sizes and prices range up from here; the 3-footer is a big splurge at $600, in your choice of milk, dark or white chocolate.
Or a unique spin on the classic and, for just $7, get a 6- to 7-inch solid chocolate carrot. “The carrot is back by popular demand,” Cabot says. “It’s the envy of all Easter bunnies.”
Many customers opt for the year-round favorite chocolate-dipped strawberries, she adds, and “a lot of regulars love the hand-dipped, chocolate-covered orange peels” (a five-ounce bag runs $10).
Last but not least, there’s Easter bark, featuring vibrant spring colors and a rich flavor profile – each piece is around $2, or get a pound for $30.
“They’re half an inch squares of chocolate and they’re about half an inch thick and two and a half by two and half square pieces,” Cabot says. “They’re definitely the best way to go for high level chocoholics — the bark is chocolate on chocolate.”
Place your order
Scurry and ring up an order with Birmingham Chocolate for a special treat. “We are still cranking out tons of bunnies for Easter,” the store shares on Facebook.
This local staple, which has been in business since 2008, also offers unique chocolate picks for various holidays.
It’s located in downtown Birmingham at 1728 W. Maple Road. Hours are 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday-Friday and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. For more information, visit its website at birminghamchocolate.com.
