It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Children and adults alike wait in anticipation for gifts delivered under the tree from Santa. Stockings are hung by the chimney with care in hope that some sweet treats will be there. While store bought chocolates are convenient, there is nothing like savoring a fresh hand-dipped truffle from the local candy shop. North Georgia has got you prepared for the holidays with chocolatiers ready to stuff stockings with their handmade sweet treats.
Bitzel’s Chocolate, Suwanee
Opened since January 2024, Bitzel’s 7,000-square-foot factory in Suwanee contains state of the art equipment for making delectable chocolates and also features a continuous-churn gelato machine. Making quality chocolate at affordable prices is the goal of owner Ray Bitzel and his team of expert chocolatiers. Watch as they work their chocolate magic of the entire bean to bar process through viewable glass. With advanced machinery that can handle large quantities quickly, Bitzel’s provides customizable chocolates for corporate gifts and events. For the chocolate lover on your list, book a chocolate camp experience or gift a date night event for your sweetheart. Tasting chocolate is an experience and Bitzel’s is the perfect place to spread chocolate-covered holiday cheer.
Our Holiday Favorites: Eggnog Truffle, Cinnamon Glazed Pecans
bitzelschocolate.com
Chamberlain’s Chocolate Factory, Roswell
Christy and Joe Bronson bought Atlanta’s oldest chocolate factory, Chamberlain’s, with a heart for making food accessible to everyone. Having personal experience with challenging allergic food reactions, they follow a specific double-washing process to ensure there is no cross-contamination in their chocolate production. At Chamberlain’s, the offerings extend beyond truffles and include fruit bouquets and Shari’s Berries. Their heart for the community includes special events where they welcome school field trips, day trips for assisted living residents and outings from a nearby day school for the developmentally disabled. They also host parties and chocolate making events perfect for anyone wanting to learn to make their own homemade goodies. Despite dietary limitations and at no extra cost, customers with food restrictions can freely enjoy a sweet holiday season at Chamberlain’s.
Our Holiday Favorites: Rudolph Twinkie, Handmade Hot Cooca Bombs
chamberlainschocolate.com
The Chocolate Express, Blue Ridge
All aboard The Chocolate Express in Blue Ridge. Owner Dennis Farr bought the shop in 2008 after looking for his next train stop on the entrepreneur railroad. After all, he reasoned, who doesn’t like chocolate? The quaint shop is nestled in the heart of bustling downtown Blue Ridge, perfect for anyone needing a sugar high. Farr prides himself on making their in-house fudge from scratch. The Chocolate Express partners with local charities like Snack in the Backpack, an organization feeding hungry children. When a devastating fire hit downtown Blue Ridge businesses in 2023, the shop stepped in to assist with a local fundraiser for the community. You won’t need to buy a ticket to ride The Chocolate Express — just bring your sweet tooth!
Holiday Favorites: Pumpkin Fudge, Candy Cane Fudge
thechocolateexpress.com
Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen, Helen
Since 1973, Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen has been the sweet heart of downtown Helen. The original owner sold the shop to Steve Marcanello in November 2023 after 50 years of bringing the sweet life to the charming Bavarian-themed town. General Manager Ranee Winkler started working part-time in the candy shop when she was 18. Because of the value the candy kitchen places on its employees, many faithful chocolate makers continue to make it the most fun shop in town. Giving back is the main ingredient at Hansel and Gretel, first to their employees then to the community by lending support to local schools and charities. The shop sells truffles, brittles, candy apples and more. Countdown your Christmas season with the popular Advent Calendar and find your new favorite stocking stuffers at Hansel and Gretel Candy Kitchen.
Our Holiday Favorites: Peppermint Bark, Peppermint Fudge
hanselgretelcandy.com
Main Street Chocolates, Clayton
Opening February 2024 just in time for Valentine’s Day, Main Street Chocolates in Clayton is the sweetest spot in town. In a previous job, owner Jerry Moore worked with a large franchise chocolate company then left to pursue another career path. Missing the sweet life, he returned to the candy making business to open his own candy store. Main Street Chocolates not only produces truffles, ice cream and fudge but also houses a coffee shop. Main Street values communitycollaboration. At a local bed and breakfast, guests are treated to their chocolates as complimentary treats. The local wine shop offers truffle pairings. Main Street also supports local school events, charities and 5Ks. Sip and savor your new favorite treat at Main Street Chocolates in Clayton.
Our Holiday Favorites: Peppermint Bark, Peppermint Ice Cream
mainstreetchocolates.net
Paul Thomas Chocolates, Dahlonega
Paul Thomas originally began making his chocolate dreams come true in Florida in 1975. After relocating his shop to downtown Dahlonega some years later and eventually retiring, two of his former employees offered to buy the shop. Brothers Micah and Danny Mihok stay true to the Paul Thomas method of production on-site with more than 150 unique candy recipes. They test all their new creations first to ensure every customer’s sweet tooth is satisfied. They partner with local wineries and distilleries with their festive flavors and utilize locally-owned restaurant affiliate deals to incentivize patrons to visit. Embrace your inner kid with the in-store running choo-choo train. Snap a family photo behind the new photo booth cut-outs of a chocolate bar and chocolatier. Get in the holiday spirit this year with a trip to Paul Thomas Chocolates on the Dahlonega Square.
Our Holiday Favorites: Gingerbread Truffle, Creme de Menthe Truffle
paulthomaschocolates.com
