Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Whether it's about Friars, our products, or just chocolate, we've got you covered. Check out our most frequently asked questions below, or if you can't locate what you need, let us know by emailing sales@friars.co.uk or calling 01768 772234.

General

Which stores sell your products?

Aside from finding them online, our chocolates can be found in our Keswick and Ambleside shops. Find a Friars store near you with our Store Locator Map and discover our luxury chocolates.

Is shipping available anywhere?

At the moment, we only deliver within the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man and the Channel Islands. When ordering, please enter the correct address and postcode to help us deliver your order as quickly as possible.

Do you offer gift notes for orders?

Are you planning to send chocolates to a loved one as a birthday gift or for a special occasion? We can help you add a gift note to your order. Once you have selected the chocolate you wish to buy, look for the ‘ADD A FREE GIFT MESSAGE CARD’, and you’ll find a box where you can enter your message. Afterwards, we will print the message and send it with your gift. 

Note that we only offer one gift note per order complete, not an individual gift note per item in the order. 

Are your packaging materials recyclable?

Our Friars signature boxes are now 100% recyclable and biodegradable. We pack our in-demand chocolate tasters in a 100% recyclable, biodegradable tray enclosed in NatureFlex, a wood pulp alternative to polypropylene bags. The FSC-certified carton and the tray in which the chocolates are contained are biodegradable.

In the past, we used plastic air pockets to cushion our parcels. However, this has now been replaced with recyclable paper void fill, which means you won't receive any plastic padding—just our delicious chocolate.

Why does chocolate make you happy?

Chocolate has always been a popular treat around the world, and it brings joy to many people. But why are we so happy when we eat chocolate?

Well, chocolate contains a number of chemicals that affect you, such as phenylethylamine and serotonin. These neurotransmitters help you feel relaxed and happy. Additionally, chocolate can increase your brain's dopamine production, which makes you more focused and concentrate better.

How much chocolate is too much?

Food lovers around the globe have long enjoyed chocolate as a treat. But how much chocolate is too much?

When deciding how much chocolate to eat, it's crucial to consume it moderately. Chocolate should be consumed in small quantities as part of a balanced diet and lifestyle.

 How is chocolate made?

The journey towards creating delicious chocolate starts with cocoa beans from the Theobroma cacao tree. These beans are harvested and then fermented before being dried and sorted into types: fine flavour, medium flavour, and bulk beans. Once graded for quality, these beans are shipped all over the world for roasting and grinding. This process produces a thick paste known as cocoa mass or cocoa liquor – an essential ingredient in any chocolate product.

From here, manufacturers add ingredients such as sugar and milk to create chocolates like dark or milk chocolates.

What is vegan chocolate made of?

Vegan chocolate is a vegan-friendly alternative to traditional chocolate made without animal products.

Vegan chocolates are typically made from a blend of cocoa powder or cacao, coconut oil or vegetable fat, sugar and additional flavourings like vanilla extract. Many vegan chocolates are also organic and free from preservatives, making them more natural than their non-vegan counterparts. These ingredients come together to form smooth bars or creamy truffles that offer all the classic tastes of traditional chocolate without animal by-products.

How to tell if chocolate is vegan?

When choosing vegan-friendly chocolate, always read the label carefully. Look for words like "dairy-free" or "non-dairy" since these labels indicate that no animal products have been used in making the product. Additionally, check the ingredients list on any packaging; many brands will specify if they are vegan. You should also avoid any chocolates that contain gelatine or other animal-derived ingredients such as honey, whey protein isolate or casein.

Where can I buy vegan chocolate?

Friars offer vegan chocolates for vegans who want to indulge in the sweet treat without compromising their values and lifestyle.

Friars’ vegan chocolates come in a variety of delectable flavours, including dark, milk, white and sugar-free varieties. Each type is made from natural ingredients like cocoa butter, vanilla extract and coconut oil that are free of animal products or by-products.

Why buy vegan chocolate?

Vegan chocolate is a delicious, cruelty-free alternative to traditional milk and dark chocolate. Not only is it a healthier option, but it also supports vegan businesses that prioritise sustainability.

Vegan chocolate is perfect for people with food allergies or sensitivities. Since it contains no animal products or by-products, those with dairy intolerance can still enjoy a sweet treat without worrying about adverse reactions.

Is normal chocolate gluten-free?

When it comes to plain, natural chocolate, the answer is usually yes. As long as you are not eating any flavourings containing wheat, barley or rye-based ingredients, it should be safe and considered gluten-free. However, it’s important to read labels carefully and look out for hidden sources of gluten, such as malt flavouring or modified food starch which can sometimes be found in processed chocolates like cookies and candy bars.

Who sells gluten-free chocolate?

Friars offer a line of gluten-free chocolate. The delicious treats are available in a variety of flavours, making them an appealing option for those looking for a sweet treat without any wheat or rye.

The allergen-friendly chocolates from Friars are made with carefully sourced ingredients naturally devoid of gluten. This means they’re safe and enjoyable for anyone who avoids foods containing this particular protein. In addition, each batch is tested by third-party laboratories to ensure that the results meet strict standards of safety and quality.

Is dairy-free chocolate good for you?

The answer is yes; dairy-free chocolate is available and surprisingly good for you.

Dairy-free chocolate has many advantages over regular milk or dark varieties, particularly in terms of health benefits. Unlike traditional types of chocolate, which are often loaded with saturated fat and sugar, dairy-free options are made without any animal products, so they contain fewer calories and less fat overall. Additionally, since most dairy-free chocolates are vegan-friendly, they're free from all animal products—which means no cholesterol!

How much alcohol is in chocolate liqueur?

The amount of alcohol in chocolate liqueur depends on the type and brand purchased. Generally, vodka-based chocolates have about 15% to 18% ABV (alcohol by volume), while rum-based varieties have up to 24% ABV. Some brands also produce low-alcohol versions with as little as 3-5% ABV or non-alcoholic chocolates with no added spirits or liqueurs.

No matter what type of chocolate liqueur you choose, it's important to remember that it contains alcohol and should be enjoyed responsibly.

What alcohol is in chocolate liqueur?

Chocolate liqueur is an alcoholic beverage made from a combination of cocoa, sugar, water and spirits such as vodka or brandy. It can be enjoyed with ice or added to coffee for a decadent twist on an old classic. Chocolate liqueur may also be used in cocktails such as White Russians or Mudslides for a rich flavour experience.

Why put alcohol in chocolate?

Alcohol-infused chocolate is one of the most indulgent treats around the holidays or any time of year. Not only does it taste amazing, but adding alcohol to your favourite chocolate can add a unique flavour and texture that can make it even more enjoyable. It also has many health benefits that may surprise you.

For starters, there is evidence suggesting that consuming small amounts of alcohol can prevent heart disease due to its ability to raise HDL cholesterol levels in the blood. Additionally, moderate intake of alcoholic beverages such as wine or spirits has been linked with improved cognitive functioning and reduced risk for dementia. On top of this, studies suggest that dark chocolate with a high cocoa content may be beneficial for reducing inflammation and improving overall health. When combined with alcohol, these effects are intensified – making alcohol-infused chocolates a delicious way to promote good health.

Are sugar-free chocolates healthy?      

The truth is that while there are some benefits to eating sugar-free chocolates, not all products marketed as such contain fewer calories or less sugar than their standard counterparts. Therefore, it is important to read labels carefully and ensure that the chocolate you buy is free from added sugars.

It also helps to remember that even though sugar-free chocolate may have fewer calories and be lower in unhealthy fats than its regular counterpart, it still contains a number of other ingredients that can be harmful when consumed in large amounts.

Who made the first chocolate easter egg?

Chocolatier Joseph Fry first invented chocolate Easter eggs in 1873. Joseph Fry was an Englishman who began producing chocolate treats as early as 1759. His success in creating rich and sweet-tasting treats led him to explore how to make solid chocolate eggs with a hollow centre. After much experimentation, he eventually perfected his method and released his new product during the Easter season of 1873.

Since then, more varieties have been created by different confectioners around the world, each adding its unique touches to this beloved seasonal treat.

Where do chocolate easter eggs come from?

The history of chocolate Easter eggs dates back to at least early 19th century Europe when they were first created as a treat for children during the Easter celebrations. As time passed, different cultures began experimenting with various chocolate egg designs—from hollow milk chocolate eggs to solid white or dark chocolate shells filled with goodies such as candy and jelly beans.

When did chocolate first come to Europe?

Chocolate Easter eggs first appeared in Europe in the 19th century, though historians still debate their exact origin. Not only did they become popular during this period, but they also began appearing all over Europe. While some believe this was due to the invention of mass-produced machines that allowed for easier production of chocolate candy, others attribute it to an increase in the availability of cocoa beans from South America.

When did the history of chocolate begin?

Chocolate has been around millennia, with evidence of its use in Mexico dating back to 1900 BC. Aztec cultures consumed the beverage form of chocolate during special ceremonies and feasts to honour gods and goddesses. By 1492, Europeans were introduced to the “food of the gods” by Christopher Columbus, who brought cocoa beans as gifts. Explorers such as Hernan Cortes would bring chocolate back from their travels, making it popular among Spanish royalty and aristocrats. Chocolate remained a luxury item until 1615 when Dutch entrepreneur Coenraad Johannes Van Houten developed a process to remove fat from cocoa beans creating the first edible chocolate powder. His invention resulted in powdered cocoa being added to beverages which eventually led to its production into chocolate bars.

How has chocolate evolved?

Chocolate has been around for centuries but has evolved significantly over time. Its journey began in the Mesoamerican cultures of the Aztecs and Mayans, who harvested cocoa beans from the forests of Central America and made them into a bitter beverage. They believed chocolate had spiritual properties and was consumed primarily by the upper class. As chocolate spread throughout Europe during the 16th century, its production methods changed to roasting, grinding, and mixing with sugar.

In 1828, Dutch chemist Coenraad Johannes van Houten discovered a method for removing much cocoa butter from roasted cacao beans before pressing them into cakes, allowing easier melting into liquids or powders. He also developed two different processes - alkalisation (dutching) and conching - to improve the flavour and texture of chocolate products.

Chocolate bloom

When chocolate goes white, is it bad?

When chocolate turns white, it can be confusing and worrying. However, it’s not necessarily a bad thing.

When chocolate turns white, it’s gone through a process known as bloom. It occurs when cocoa butter melts on the surface of the chocolate and then hardens again. This process occurs when the environment becomes too hot or humid or when temperatures change during transportation or storage, resulting in a thin layer of cocoa butter forming. While it may appear strange, rest assured that your chocolate is safe to eat. The bloom does not affect the taste at all.

What does chocolate bloom look like?

Chocolate bloom can alter chocolate's appearance. The two main types of bloom are fat bloom and sugar bloom. Fat bloom occurs when cocoa butter rises to the surface due to changes in temperature, giving the chocolate a powdery white appearance and a dull finish. Sugar bloom occurs when moisture enters the chocolate and forms crystals of sugar or starch on its surface, leaving behind an unappetising white film that is dusty and grainy.

What temperature does chocolate bloom happen?

When chocolate is exposed to temperatures higher than 70°F (21°C) to 75°F (24°C), it can begin to bloom. This occurs because solid chocolate's components melt at different rates. The cocoa butter in the chocolate melts faster than the rest of the solids and crystallises at the surface. As a result, your formerly glossy piece of chocolate appears to have a whitish coating. Afterwards, as the chocolate cools again, the bloomed cocoa butter becomes unevenly solidified on top.

How to save bloomed chocolate?

When you notice that your chocolate has bloomed, don't panic! There are still a few simple steps you can take to save it.

It is possible to repair chocolate bloom by melting it, stirring it, adding it to a mould and letting it cool. This restores the fat to the solution.

Usage

How do we use chocolate?

From baking to pairing with wine, there’s a multitude of delicious ways to enjoy chocolate. With its versatility and flavour, chocolate enhances every culinary experience.

Aside from eating a chocolate bar by itself, you can enjoy chocolate in liquid form and sip hot chocolate beverages. You can use it to enhance the flavour of various dishes, such as pudding, cake, fudge, pasta and even savoury chicken. Chocolate is also great as a dipping sauce, topping for drinks or garnish for desserts. 

How much chocolate for a chocolate fountain? 

Are you planning to set up a chocolate fountain at your next event? If so, you'll need to determine how much chocolate you'll need.

The amount of melted chocolate needed for a single-tier or cascading fountain usually depends on size but typically ranges from 10-15 pounds. Consider the number of guests attending your event when choosing the amount of melted chocolate.

What chocolate is used for brownies?

Unlike sweetened chocolate, baking chocolate contains no added sugar or flavouring, which makes it bitter. This type of chocolate works well as a brownie base since sugar can be added to the recipe, giving it a balanced flavour.

What chocolate to use for fondue?

The best chocolate types for your fondue recipes are semi-sweet or dark chocolate. When melted, this will ensure the right flavour and texture. Additionally, you can choose between white or milk chocolate, depending on your preference.

What chocolate to use for cake pops?

When selecting chocolate for cake pops, here are a few things to consider: What kind of chocolate do you prefer, white, milk or dark? Does your recipe require a certain amount?

Dark chocolates are rich and flavourful, so they make perfect cake pops. However, you can use semi-sweet or milk chocolates instead if you prefer something sweeter. To maintain consistency between batches, use high-quality baking chips made specifically for melting.

What chocolate to use for strawberries?

Chocolate pairs well with strawberries, but there are some chocolates that are better suited for pairing than others. Semi-sweet or dark chocolate works best when it comes to chocolate for strawberries. Semi-sweet chocolate accentuates the strawberry's natural sweetness without overwhelming it with a heavy, rich flavour. Darker chocolates complement the sweetness of berries with a richer flavour. However, if you prefer, white or milk chocolate can also be used.

Vegan chocolate

What is vegan chocolate made of?

Vegan chocolate is becoming increasingly popular among those following a plant-based diet. Vegan chocolate usually contains two ingredients: cocoa and a sweetener such as an agave nectar or coconut sugar. Cocoa solids provide chocolate products with their characteristic dark colour and flavour. The sweetener adds sweetness to the product as well as gives it a creamy texture. Some vegan chocolates also incorporate nuts, fruit and spices to enhance their flavour and texture. These additions differ from brand to brand.

How to tell if chocolate is vegan?

To determine whether chocolate is vegan, it’s crucial to read the packaging's ingredients list. The product isn't vegan if the ingredient list contains animal by-products such as milk or cream. It's also essential to check for added flavourings, as dairy or other animal products may be present.

Additionally, choose chocolate bars with fewer ingredients. Typically, the fewer ingredients, the purer the vegan chocolate bar is.

How much sugar is in vegan chocolate?

Vegan chocolate is typically lower in sugar than regular chocolate. The majority of regular chocolates are packed with cane sugar, while vegan brands often use coconut sugar.

How long does vegan chocolate last?

Vegan chocolates retain their freshness and enjoyment for varying lengths of time. Most dark chocolates are safe to eat for up to two years when stored in a cool, dry place away from heat and sunlight. Milk chocolates have a shorter shelf life than dark chocolate due to their higher fat content. White chocolates also last a shorter amount of time than darker chocolates; they usually last six months before going rancid.

Dairy is not present in vegan chocolates, which helps them keep their consistency at room temperature. Our vegan chocolate has a year shelf life however, vegan chocolate is always best consumed as fresh as possible.

Where can I buy vegan chocolate?

Vegan chocolate can be found in most grocery stores, health food stores and online retailers. Boxes or wrappers typically label vegan-friendly options as such. Before purchasing any product, it's always a good idea to contact the manufacturer directly if you aren't sure if it is vegan-friendly.

There is something for every taste with the variety of flavours available. If you’re seeking premium chocolates for delivery or couverture chocolate in the UK, Friars provides can satisfy your chocolate cravings. Our range of vegan chocolates allows you to order chocolate and enjoy guilt-free treats without sacrificing taste or quality.

Dark Chocolate

What are the benefits of dark chocolate?

Dark chocolate is one of the most popular types of chocolate and with good reason. Not only does it have a rich, deep flavour that many find irresistible, but it also has some amazing health benefits.

A dark chocolate bar is packed with antioxidants, which can help protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that regular consumption may reduce inflammation, improve blood flow and lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, dark chocolate contains magnesium and iron, which can help keep our energy levels balanced throughout the day.

In addition to its nutritional value, dark chocolate also contains fewer calories than milk or white varieties, so it’s an ideal choice for people looking to manage their weight without sacrificing flavour.

Is 100% dark chocolate the healthiest?

Dark chocolate is known for containing more cocoa than other types, which means it’s higher in antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds have been shown to improve heart health and reduce inflammation. Additionally, dark chocolate has lower sugar levels than milk or white chocolates, making it a better choice for those looking to limit their intake of processed sweets.

So while consuming any type of chocolate in moderation is recommended, eating darker varieties may be beneficial for overall health due to their higher levels of antioxidants and polyphenols and low sugar content.

Can I take dark chocolate every day?

The short answer? Yes, as long as you’re aware of serving sizes and other dietary recommendations.

Dark chocolate can offer some nutritional benefits if taken in moderation. However, it’s important to remember that dark chocolate still contains fat and sugar, so it’s best enjoyed occasionally rather than multiple times a day.

What is the difference between dark chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate?

The answer lies in the ingredients used and the percentage of cocoa solids in each type.

A dark chocolate bar contains more cocoa solids and less sugar compared to semi-sweet chocolate. In contrast, semi-sweet chocolate has a lower percentage of cocoa solids and more sugar. It’s essentially a hybrid between milk chocolate and dark chocolate.

The higher cocoa content in dark chocolate gives it a richer, more intense chocolate flavour, while the added sugar in semi-sweet chocolate provides a sweeter taste. Choosing between the two types depends on personal preference and your desired taste.

Milk Chocolate

Is milk chocolate still chocolate?

This is a question popularly asked by many confectionary fans. Milk chocolate is a common variety of chocolate, but it’s not necessarily the same as regular chocolate. Milk chocolate is made with cocoa, sugar and milk solids, while traditional dark or bittersweet chocolates are made with cocoa and sugar only. This means that while both types of chocolates contain cocoa, they differ in taste and texture due to their varying ingredients.

What is milk chocolate made of?

Milk chocolate is a type of chocolate made with both cocoa solids and cocoa butter, as well as sugar and at least 12% milk solids. It's a popular type of chocolate because it has a creamy, sweet flavour that many people enjoy.

The process of making milk chocolate begins with melting together cocoa butter and cocoa liquor. The mixture is blended with sugar to form a paste called ‘chocolate mass’, which will later be refined into a smooth texture. After this step, dry ingredients such as dry milk powder are added along with any extra flavouring ingredients like vanilla extract or fruit purees.

What is milk chocolate used for?

Milk chocolate is a delicious treat you can enjoy all by itself. You can also bake or melt it down and use that to make hot chocolate drinks. Or you can use it in desserts, truffles, ice cream and more.

If you’re feeling creative, why not use some chopped-up pieces of milk chocolate as a topping for pancakes or waffles? You can even get creative with savoury dishes! Make sure you have plenty of quality ingredients, though; good-tasting food starts with quality ingredients.

White Chocolate

Why do they call it white chocolate?

White chocolate is one of the most beloved treats in the world. Its creamy, sweet and smooth texture makes it a favourite among many. But why exactly do they call it white chocolate?

A white chocolate bar contains no cocoa solids or cocoa liquor like traditional dark or milk chocolates. It’s made from a blend of cocoa butter, milk solids, sugar and flavourings such as vanilla extract. Due to the cocoa butter and milk powder, white chocolate has a white appearance—hence, its name.

Is white chocolate actually real chocolate?

Whether white chocolate is actually real chocolate has been a hot topic among chocolate lovers for years. With its creamy texture, sweet flavour and resemblance to traditional chocolates, white chocolate fans claim it is indeed the same thing.

To answer whether white chocolate bars in the UK are really considered ‘chocolate’, we need to look at what makes up the sweet treat. White chocolate doesn’t contain cocoa solids. That’s why technically speaking, white chocolate isn’t considered chocolate. Instead of cocoa solids, white chocolate consists primarily of cocoa butter combined with milk solids, sugar, lecithin (an emulsifier) and other flavourings, such as vanilla extract.

What does white chocolate taste like?

Since white chocolate gets its flavour from cocoa butter, sugar and milk solids, it’s much sweeter with a mild taste and creamy texture. Its smoothness is often compared to butterscotch, and some say they detect hints of nutty flavours as well.

For a sweet and creamy treat, white chocolate may be just what you need. With its unique flavour profile, it can be used in a variety of desserts or enjoyed straight out of the package.

Hot Chocolate

How to make hot chocolate?

Hot chocolate is a comforting treat enjoyed by many during the colder months. Want to make hot chocolate for yourself or your family? First, you must gather all the ingredients: cocoa powder, sugar, warm milk (or cream) and a pinch of salt. Once ready, mix one tablespoon of cocoa powder and two tablespoons of sugar in a mug or cup. Add one cup of warm milk (or cream) and stir until all ingredients are combined. Finally, add a pinch of salt to taste and enjoy!

Is hot chocolate healthier than coffee?

Are you a hot chocolate lover or a coffee fanatic? When it’s winter, in particular, there’s quite nothing like a warm and comforting mug of hot cocoa. But is it actually healthier than coffee? From the health benefits to the different types, there are plenty of aspects to consider when deciding which is better for your needs.

Studies have shown that dark chocolate can provide antioxidant properties that may help reduce inflammation and provide other health benefits. However, coffee has its own advantages, such as providing essential nutrients and promoting mental alertness and focus.

Ultimately, the choice will depend on your individual preferences and lifestyle.

Does hot chocolate help you sleep?

From the sweet aroma of melted marshmallows to the comfort of warm steam on your face as you take a sip, hot chocolate is an indulgent wintertime treat that all ages can enjoy. It’s an age-old treat that can evoke feelings of comfort and relaxation in many people.

According to research, consuming certain ingredients in hot chocolate can help relax the body and mind before bedtime. Tryptophan from dairy products (such as milk or cream), often used to make hot chocolate, induces relaxation and reduces stress.

Calories

Is chocolate high in calories?

Let’s start with a basic understanding of calories. Calories are units of energy that measure how much energy food provides our bodies when consumed. The amount of calories in a food depends on the size and type of food eaten.

Generally speaking, chocolate is higher in calories than many other types of food because it typically contains high amounts of fat and sugar—two components that contribute heavily to the calorie count.

So is chocolate high in calories? The answer is: yes, depending on what kind you’re eating.

What’s the breakdown of calories in chocolate?

Are you a chocoholic who likes to indulge in chocolate treats but worries it’ll increase your calorie intake?

We all know that chocolate can be high in calories, but how many exactly depends on the type of chocolate being consumed. Darker chocolates contain fewer carbohydrates than other varieties. The calorie breakdown will depend on the brand, but here’s an estimated calorie breakdown of various types of chocolates:

How many calories are in one bar of chocolate?

The exact number of calories in a single bar of chocolate depends on several factors, such as the type, size and amount of sugars or fats it contains. To get an accurate calorie count for any particular type or brand of chocolate, it’s best to read the nutrition label on the package itself. Additionally, it’s important to keep portion sizes in mind, as consuming multiple bars can quickly add up to a significant amount of calories.