Bonbons are small chocolate works of art that delight the senses with their refined flavors and surprising fillings. They are beloved worldwide as a sweet treat, both for themselves and as gifts. But did you know there are different types of bonbons, each with their own characteristics and flavors? In this blog post, we'll take you on a journey through the world of bonbons, from classic fillings to innovative creations.
1. Ganache bonbons: creamy and full of flavor
Ganache bonbons are among the most popular types of bonbons. They have a soft, creamy filling, often a mixture of melted chocolate and cream. This creates a silky texture that melts perfectly in your mouth. Ganache bonbons can be prepared in various ways, depending on the desired flavor. For example, ganache bonbons can be filled with dark chocolate, milk chocolate, white chocolate, or even aromatic additions such as vanilla, coffee, or fruit puree.
Features of ganache bonbons:
- Soft, creamy filling
- Usually made of chocolate and cream
- Often enriched with flavorings such as vanilla or fruit
2. Praline bonbons: nutty and crunchy
Praline bonbons are a classic choice and consist of a praline paste filling. This paste is made by caramelizing nuts, often hazelnuts, almonds, or pecans, and then mixing them with chocolate. The filling has a nutty flavor and a crunchy texture, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a bit of crunch in their bonbon.
Characteristics of praline bonbons:
- Praline paste filling (caramelized nuts)
- Nutty flavor
- Crispy texture
3. Liqueur bonbons: with a hint of alcohol
Bonbons with a ganache filling, enriched with a dash of liqueur, are perfect for those who prefer a more mature flavor. Popular choices include bonbons filled with rum, whiskey, cognac, or Grand Marnier. The alcoholic filling is often combined with a rich, creamy ganache, giving the bonbon an extra dimension.
Features of liqueur bonbons:
- Creamy ganache filling
- Enriched with a dash of alcohol (rum, whisky, cognac, etc.)
- A mature and refined taste
4. Fruit bonbons: fresh sweetness in chocolate
Fruit bonbons are a refreshing and light choice for those who want to combine the sweetness of chocolate with the refreshing flavors of fruit. The filling can consist of fruit purée, jelly, or jam, such as raspberry, lemon, mango, or passion fruit. These bonbons often have a slightly tart flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich chocolate.
Features of fruit bonbons:
- Filling of fruit puree, jelly or jam
- Fresh, slightly sour taste
- Popular in combination with dark or white chocolate
5. Marzipan bonbons: sweet and almond-like
Marzipan is a sweet, almond-like paste used as a filling in chocolates. These chocolates are often filled with a firm marzipan, which adds a delicious sweetness without being too heavy. Marzipan chocolates are a classic choice and pair well with both milk and dark chocolate.
Characteristics of marzipan bonbons:
- Marzipan filling (sweet and almond-like)
- Firm yet soft texture
- Very sweet, but not too heavy
6. Filled chocolate bonbons: surprising flavors
There are also bonbons that don't have the classic ganache, praline, or fruit filling, but instead contain surprising ingredients. Think bonbons filled with caramel, spices like cinnamon or chili, or even salt for an exciting combination of sweet and savory. These bonbons are ideal for adventurous palates looking for something unique.
Features filled chocolate bonbons:
- Surprising fillings such as caramel, spices or salt
- Unique flavor combinations
- Perfect for adventurous eaters
7. Vegan chocolates: without animal products
Vegan bonbons are perfect for those who don't consume animal products but still want to enjoy delicious chocolate. These bonbons are made without dairy or other animal-based ingredients and often use plant-based alternatives for the ganache, such as coconut milk, almond milk, or oat cream. The fillings can be just as varied as traditional bonbons, from fruit to spices or nutty fillings.
Features of vegan chocolates:
- Made without dairy or animal products
- Plant-based alternatives to ganache
- Just as much variety as traditional chocolates
8. Chocolates with nuts: a crunchy surprise
Chocolates filled with nuts, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans, offer a delicious balance of chocolate and a crunchy texture. The nuts can be in the filling or incorporated into the chocolate shell itself, adding extra flavor and texture.
Features of bonbons with nuts:
- Nut filling
- Crispy and nutty taste
- Combines well with both dark and milk chocolate
These are the types of chocolates you should know about
The world of bonbons offers endless possibilities for flavor combinations and fillings. From creamy ganache to nutty pralines, fruity treats, or even a surprising alcoholic twist, there's always a bonbon to perfectly suit your taste. Bonbons are not just a treat; they're works of art, with chocolatiers pouring their creativity into every flavor and shape.
Want to learn more about the different types of chocolates? Then browse our flavors and discover which one is perfect for you!
