It’s that time of year when many of us are contemplating New Years Resolutions, which often involves giving up something we enjoy. We’re of the belief that to reach a goal, a moderate, sustained approach is usually more effective than extreme measures. With that in mind, if you’re thinking of giving up sweets cold turkey, instead resolve to eat (in moderation) delicious, Bay Area made goodies from these makers that are raising the dietary, environmental, and socially progressive bar in the confectionary industry. You can satisfy your (and/or your kids) sweet cravings and feel good about it.
OCHO Candy
OCHO stands for Organic CHOcolate, and everything OCHO Candy makes in their West Oakland facility is 100% organic. It’s also gluten-free and GMO-free – and their top-selling Coconut Candy Bar is certified vegan. What’s not to like?
Mr. Dewie’s Cashew Creamery
Mr. Dewie’s starts with organic cashews that are ground into a paste the mixed with water and flavoring to create a rich and creamy milk that is then churned into ice cream. The texture and flavor is similar to gelato, yet it’s free of dairy, gluten, and soy, and has no additives or preservatives. Made in their San Leandro facility, you can get a delicious taste at their scoop shops in Albany and Emeryville and at select East Bay retailers.
Wooden Table Baking Co.
Wooden Table Baking Co. makes alfajores, a traditional Argentinean pastry made of two shortbread cookies joined with dulce de leche (milk caramel), in small batches with all natural, non-GMO ingredients. The all female, LGBT owned and immigrant run company creates their alfajores and other divine treats in their East Oakland facility. Available at select retailers and at their newly opened café in Oakland’s Uptown District.
Just Date Syrup
Just Date Syrup is made from one perfect ingredient: wholesome, organic, California medjool dates. The mission-driven, physician-run, San Francisco-based company is devoted to the cause of removing refined sugars from our diet. With a low-glycemic index, just add it to your coffee, tea, drizzled on breakfast parfaits, or baked into delicious goodies as a healthier replacement for refined sugar, honey, maple syrup and agave.
Charles Chocolates
San Francisco-based Charles Chocolates are handmade in small batches using all natural ingredients, with no additives or preservatives. Their award-winning truffles, bars, chocolate covered nuts, and fleur de sel caramels are made with the belief that chocolates are fresh food and should be made with the finest and freshest ingredients and delivered within a few days of their creation. Charles Chocolates are available from their San Francisco retail store and at select retailers.
OCHO Candy bars, Wooden Table Baking Co. alfajores, and Charles Chocolates bars and chocolate covered nuts are featured in our Bay Area Made Gift Boxes, along with other goodies from Bay Area makers. For more information and to purchase click here.
