Summer is all about savoring the moment, whether you’re cruising down the highway with the windows down, hosting a backyard BBQ, or soaking up the sun at the beach. And contrary to what some might think, chocolate isn’t just a winter indulgence. With the right prep and a little creativity, local chocolate from your favorite nearby shops can be the star of your warm-weather festivities.
At Asher’s Chocolate Co., we believe that chocolate is meant to be enjoyed year-round. That’s why we offer handcrafted treats perfect for gifting, snacking, and celebrating, no matter how hot it gets.
From summer chocolate desserts to the best road trip snacks, rediscover how to make chocolate part of your sweetest summer memories.
Celebrate the Summer with Chocolate Gifts
Summer is full of reasons to celebrate: backyard BBQs and cookouts, parades, birthdays, neighborhood block parties, festivals, summer weddings, baby showers, garden parties, and other warm-weather get-togethers. When it comes to gifts, chocolate adds a thoughtful (and delicious) touch that’s always appreciated.
Asher’s makes summer gifting easy with pre-packed assortments and customizable boxes that let you mix and match your seasonal favorites. Want to DIY something sweet and memorable? Our 4th of July chocolate-covered cookies recipe is the perfect place to start. These festive treats are fun to make, easy to share, and always serve as a crowd favorite at any patriotic party.
Plan to Pick Up Some Local Chocolate
Summer is also the season of road trips and small-town exploration. Why not sweeten your journey with a chocolate trail or a quick run to the store to stock up on local chocolate to bring with you?
Asher’s has deep roots in Pennsylvania, making it a great starting point for people wanting to support local chocolate makers. We often set up booths for local events like the Pennsylvania Chocolate & Coffee Festival.1 Turn your summer travel into a foodie adventure by stopping at chocolate shops throughout the region. It’s a delicious way to support local businesses, bond with your travel crew, and discover hidden gems.
Need some ideas? Check out our Pennsylvania Candy & Chocolate Checklist to see if you’ve tried all the must-visit sweet spots.
Make Easy Summer Chocolate Desserts
Set the snack table with treats that help you stand up to the heat. Summer chocolate desserts don’t have to be complicated to be enjoyable.
Chocolate-covered pretzels, chocolate-covered graham crackers, and cherry cordials from your favorite local chocolate shop make excellent no-bake dessert options. Incorporate them into a shaded build-your-own dessert bar by displaying them on rustic wooden boards, cake stands, or tiered trays for a Pinterest-worthy setup. Then add bowls of marshmallows, dried fruit, and nuts for people to dream up their own creations. You could instead pair chocolate with soft cheeses, fresh berries, and sparkling beverages on a seasonal charcuterie board.
Bite-sized goodies also make great party favors. Simply pack them in clear bags tied with seasonal ribbon and you’ve got a sweet takeaway your guests will love.
Travel with the Best Road Trip Snacks
Whether you’re driving cross-country or taking a quick weekend trip, snacks are non-negotiable. And chocolate deserves a spot in the cooler.
Asher’s individually wrapped treats and resealable snack bags make some of the best road trip snacks around. Keep your energy up on long drives with chocolate-covered trail mix, pretzels, or caramels mixed with salty nuts. They’re the perfect balance of sweet and savory and easily shared throughout car rides.
To keep things cool, store your chocolate in insulated bags or alongside freezer packs. You’ll be glad you packed smart when that mid-drive craving hits. Asher’s chocolates also come cool from the start. We provide ice-packed shipping during the summer so your sweets arrive in perfect condition.
Soak Up the Sun with the Best Beach Snacks
Chocolate is one of the best beach snacks, too! A day at the beach calls for good vibes and fun company, and chocolate can complement any sun-soaked adventure.
Asher’s offers beach-ready treats that are easy to pack, share, and savor between dips in the ocean. Resealable snack bags filled with chocolate-covered pretzels or grahams are perfect for passing around the beach blanket. Individually wrapped goodies like mini peanut butter cups or chocolate-smothered sandwich cookies make portioning effortless and avoid sticky fingers.
There’s something magical about enjoying rich, satisfying chocolate while listening to waves crash in the background.
Start Brainstorming Back-to-School Snacks
Before long, beach days give way to back-to-school routines, but that doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to your favorite chocolate snacks. Start thinking about back-to-school snacks that make school days special for you and your family.
Asher’s makes the transition easy with individually wrapped goodies perfect for lunchboxes, after-school treats, or a thank-you gift for your child’s teacher. Chocolate pretzels, grahams, and peanut butter cups always deliver on convenience and taste.
Whether you slip some bite-sized chocolates into your kids’ lunchboxes or save them for yourself, keep the inspiration going with back-to-school snack ideas that make every moment just a little more indulgent.
How to Keep Chocolate Cool in the Heat
Chocolate and sunshine don’t always get along, but proper chocolate storage makes summer enjoyment totally doable.
To maintain quality and flavor, aim to store chocolate at 65 to 70°F, away from direct sunlight and humidity. For short trips, insulated containers or shaded pantry spots are your best bet. If you must refrigerate, use airtight containers to avoid condensation and chocolate bloom, which is that white, powdery coating that can form when moisture interacts with the sugar.
Chocolate storage tip: Avoid freezing chocolate. It can change the texture and cause it to crack. Instead, plan ahead and transport your chocolate with care so it’s just as perfect when you arrive as when you packed it.
Make Summer Sweeter with Asher’s
From road trips and beach days to backyard BBQs and weekend get-togethers, chocolate brings people together. Asher’s can help you enjoy it all season long with treats that travel well, serve beautifully, and taste unforgettable.
Smart chocolate storage tips, travel-friendly packaging, and festive dessert ideas mean you don’t have to wait for cooler weather to indulge. Build a dessert board, pack your snack bag, or surprise a friend with a thoughtful gift! Chocolate fits right in with all your summer plans.
Shop now for handcrafted chocolate snacks, gifts, and seasonal assortments perfect for the season. Explore Asher’s PA-made favorites to elevate every moment, no matter how hot it gets.
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