Bonbons are an essential part of the sweet world these days. These small, delicious chocolate creations are beloved worldwide and come in countless varieties. But where do bonbons actually come from? And how did they evolve into the luxury product we know today? Dive into the sweet history of bonbons.
The history of chocolate bonbons
The history of chocolates begins with the ancient civilizations of Central and South America. The Mayans and Aztecs already drank cocoa beverages, but they were far from sweet. Cocoa was considered a divine drink, reserved for the elite and warriors. When the Spanish brought cocoa to Europe in the 16th century, sugar was added to soften the bitter taste. This laid the foundation for modern chocolate.
Read all about the history of chocolate here
Where does the name 'bonbon' come from?
The word "bonbon" comes from the French word "bon," meaning "tasty." The name became popular in the 17th century, when small chocolates and sugared treats began being served at the French court. These sweets were so popular that people repeatedly called them "bon, bon!", which eventually led to the name bonbon.
In the United States, the term "Bon Bon" has a different meaning. There, it specifically refers to a frozen treat: a scoop of vanilla ice cream covered in a layer of chocolate, a name trademarked by The Hershey Company.
What are the characteristics of a bonbon?
According to French law, a bonbon de chocolat must contain at least 25% chocolate and can take various forms, such as:
- A small, bite-sized chocolate
- A selection of different chocolate products
- A combination of chocolate with other edible ingredients
Who made the first bonbon?
Although there are several theories about who created the very first bonbon, it is generally accepted that Jean Neuhaus , a Swiss of Italian descent, was one of the first to create the modern bonbon in 1912. Originally aspiring to become a doctor but failing, Jean settled in Brussels in 1857. There, he opened a pharmacy in the prestigious Galerie de la Reine, where he covered his medicines for his customers with a fine layer of chocolate.
In 1912, his grandson further developed this into the Belgian praline we know today: chocolate filled with a delicious filling instead of medicine. This innovation made Belgian chocolate world-famous and inspired chocolatiers worldwide to experiment with flavors and textures.
The rise of the modern bonbon
The Industrial Revolution of the 19th century dramatically changed chocolate production. New techniques made cocoa easier to process, making chocolate products more accessible to the general public. Around this time, the first chocolatiers emerged, experimenting with various fillings such as nut praline, caramel, and liqueur. This led to the classic bonbon we know today.
Major chocolate brands such as Neuhaus in Belgium and Sprüngli in Switzerland began producing refined bonbons, leading to the global reputation of Belgian and Swiss chocolate as the top quality in the industry.
Candies in the 20th and 21st Centuries
In the 20th century, chocolate became an increasingly common treat. Mass production made bonbons more affordable and accessible to everyone. At the same time, artisan chocolatiers continued to innovate with new flavors and techniques. From exotic spices to fruit combinations and even savory ingredients, the possibilities are endless.
Today, bonbons are not just a treat but also an art form. At Bonbonbook, we create unique, handmade bonbons with surprising flavor combinations and refined presentation. Bonbons are considered not just sweets, but also a luxurious gift and a culinary experience.
The future of chocolates
With the growing demand for sustainable and fair-trade chocolate, the chocolate industry is shifting its focus toward ethical production. Chocolatiers are increasingly using fair-trade cocoa and pure ingredients, free from artificial additives. Technology is also playing a role in the future of bonbons, with 3D-printed chocolate and personalized creations.
From a royal candy to a beloved treat for everyone: the history of bonbons is one of evolution, innovation, and above all, a wealth of flavor. One thing is certain: bonbons will always hold a special place in our hearts (and mouths)!
At Bonbonbook, we continually innovate and strive for the ultimate chocolate experience. Our handmade chocolates, presented in beautiful book-shaped boxes, make every moment special. Whether it's a gift for a loved one or a treat for yourself, Bonbonbook brings the most delicious stories to life.
Source information & photos: Neuhaus
