Italian Chocolate: Artisan Passion and Delicious Indulgence

Here at Carluccio's, we have a well-known passion for authentic Italian flavours. While our pasta and olive oil speak of the Italian table, our exquisite chocolate collection whispers tales of indulgence, tradition, and the masterful skill of Italy's finest artisans.

Forget what you think you know about mass-produced sweets. The world of Italian chocolate, or cioccolato, is one of unwavering commitment to quality, often spanning generations of family recipes, resulting in a true delicious indulgence.

The Sweet History of Italian Chocolate

Italy’s love affair with chocolate began in the 16th century when it first arrived in the country, largely via Spain. It quickly spread through the royal courts and into the major cities. But a moment of resourceful genius truly forged the unique character of Italian chocolate.

During the early 1800s, with cocoa imports becoming difficult and expensive due to the Napoleonic wars, Turin's inventive chocolatiers looked to a local treasure: the abundant, intensely flavoured Piedmont hazelnut (Nocciole Piemonte). By blending ground hazelnuts with precious cocoa, they created a magnificent new confection. This innovation led to the birth of the iconic Gianduiotto, a smooth, creamy chocolate that is a hallmark of Italian confectionery to this day.

A Taste of the Carluccio's Chocolate Range

When you explore our deli, you are embarking on a journey through Italy's chocolate heartlands, sampling the very best of this artisan passion.

1. Gianduiotti: The Taste of Turin

No selection of Italian chocolate is complete without the famed Gianduiotti. Recognisable by their distinctive boat or ingot shape, individually wrapped in shimmering foil, these chocolates are a true Italian masterpiece. We offer a variety, from the classic milk and hazelnut to rich dark versions.

• The History: As mentioned, this creamy, melt-in-your-mouth blend of cocoa and Piedmont hazelnuts originated in Turin, born out of necessity but enduring because of its sheer deliciousness.

2. Tartufi: Italian Truffle Luxury

Our selection of Tartufi (Truffles) offers a moment of pure, sophisticated luxury. You’ll find variations like the deep, intense Tartufi Neri (Dark Chocolate & Hazelnut) or the creamy, pale indulgence of the Tartufi Bianchi (White Chocolate, Hazelnut & Almond).

• The Artisanal Touch: These are not just any truffles. They are typically handcrafted using the finest, carefully selected ingredients—often featuring the highly prized Piedmont hazelnuts—to achieve a wonderfully rich, dense texture and deep flavour profile that is utterly irresistible.

3. Fichi Ricoperti: A Southern Delight

For a taste that perfectly marries fruit and dark chocolate, look no further than our Chocolate Coated Figs (Fichi Ricoperti). These delightful bites feature the naturally sweet, succulent figs, often sourced from regions like Calabria in the south, enrobed in a generous layer of rich dark chocolate.

• The Heritage: Figs have been a staple crop and delicacy in Southern Italy for centuries. Coating them in chocolate transforms a simple ingredient into an opulent treat, particularly popular as a festive indulgence, embodying the Italian tradition of using the best local produce.

4. The Zesty Surprise: Cioccolatini al Limoncello

To capture the bright, sunny flavours of the Amalfi Coast and Southern Italy, we offer chocolates with a vibrant, refreshing twist, such as our Limoncello cream-filled chocolates.

• Regional Flavour: Limoncello is a quintessentially Italian liqueur made from the zest of lemons, famous for its intense aroma and zesty flavour. Pairing this with creamy chocolate delivers a spectacular and unexpected burst of Italian sunshine.

Chocolate from Italy - Perfect for Christmas

At this time of year, you might be thinking about gifting a loved one or treating yourself to something extra special - you'll find ideal solutions here in our shop.

From the smooth hazelnut perfection of Turin’s heritage to the sun-drenched fruit of the south, every piece of chocolate in the Carluccio's collection tells a story. It's the story of dedication, of a passionate respect for traditional methods, and of course, a pursuit of maximum flavour. 

Check out our online deli today and let us help you find your own moment of Italian chocolate indulgence. Buon Appetito!