old-ky-chocolates

Custom Chocolate Gifts for Kentucky Weddings & Events

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:13:28 GMT

Some details guests notice the moment they sit down — a chocolate-covered caramel at each place setting, a Gift Tower filled with velvety truffles, or a take-home box of handcrafted chocolates that taste like Kentucky.

Old Kentucky Chocolates has been crafting small-batch, custom chocolate gifts in Kentucky since 1964. Our favors work beautifully as table décor, place card holders, or gift bags that guests actually look forward to taking home. For dessert displays, our Gift Towers bring together assorted chocolates, truffles, and caramels in a presentation that is both stunning and delicious.

Our bourbon cherries — plump maraschinos aged in Kentucky bourbon, then enrobed in rich dark chocolate — make a distinctly Kentucky addition to any celebration. For a classic touch, our chocolate-covered strawberries are a guest favorite at every table.

Wedding planners, corporate event coordinators, and hosts throughout Central Kentucky trust us to bring a handcrafted touch to their most important occasions — from intimate baby showers to large-scale milestone celebrations. We’re happy to work with you on quantities, assortments, and packaging that fit your vision.

When the details matter most, let the chocolate speak for itself.

Love at First Bite: The Valentine’s Day Chocolate Gift Guide

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:38:04 GMT

A beautifully crafted box from Old Kentucky Chocolates turns a simple moment on Valentine’s Day into something someone will remember long after the last piece is gone.

The Heart Box with Assorted Chocolates offers a thoughtful mix of handcrafted selections handcrafted Truffles, Buckeyes, and Caramels, sure to satisfy every sweet tooth.

Available to purchase exclusively around Valentine's Day, our heart boxes are the perfect pick when you can't decide between their favorite flavors.

Be sure to take a look at one of our most loved collections of bourbon-infused treats, including Bourbon Chocolates, Bourbon Cherries, Bourbon Truffles, and Bourbon Caramels. Each piece reflects the balance of rich chocolate and warm, authentic Kentucky bourbon, creating a flavor experience that feels classic, comforting, and full of character.

The important people in your life deserve the very best. At Old Kentucky Chocolates, every piece is crafted with care, quality ingredients, and Kentucky tradition. Shop with us in-store at one of our five Lexington locations to make this Valentine’s Day unforgettable.

Valentine's Day would not feel complete without the timeless tradition of chocolate-covered strawberries and grapes. These classics capture the spirit of the holiday perfectly, setting the tone for a Valentine's gift that feels indulgent, thoughtful, and meant to be enjoyed.

Bourbon & Chocolate: A Kentucky Tradition You’ll Love

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 13:33:54 GMT

Some flavors simply belong together. In Kentucky, bourbon and chocolate share a long tradition of craftsmanship and heritage. When combined, they create something rich, nostalgic, and unmistakably local to our Bluegrass State.

At Old Kentucky Chocolates, bourbon is one of our most favored ingredients. From our signature Bourbon Truffles, Bourbon Cherries, Caramels, and Bourbon Chocolates, each of these candies provides a decadent, handcrafted treat that you’re bound to love. Imagine biting into our Bourbon Chocolates made with Kentucky bourbon, pecans, and cream filling, enrobed in a smooth dark chocolate coating that adds balance and depth to every bite.

There is a reason this recipe has been passed down for generations and sold in our stores for decades. Whether you are celebrating with loved ones or taking a quiet moment to treat yourself, these truffles were made to be shared, gifted, and enjoyed.

When you choose Old Kentucky Chocolates, you are supporting a family tradition built on quality, care, and local pride. Our Bourbon chocolate collection offers an authentic Kentucky experience, bringing together two timeless favorites in the most delicious way.

The Sweetest Fundraiser: How OKC Makes Fundraising Easy & Successful

Thu, 18 Dec 2025 13:32:06 GMT

When your school, sports team, or organization is searching for ways to raise money, you want a fundraiser that people will be excited to help support. A successful fundraiser should feel simple, profitable, and enjoyable for everyone involved.

This is why many fundraisers turn to Old Kentucky Chocolates. For decades, we have helped schools, sports teams, churches, and community organizations raise over $20 million through our chocolate bar fundraising program.

Each chocolate bar at Old Kentucky Chocolates is crafted with the same high-quality ingredients found in our gourmet chocolates, creating a product that people love to buy and are excited to support.

We created our fundraising program to make the process as easy as possible for our fundraisers, so you can focus on your fundraising cause. Each chocolate case includes 180 chocolate bars, packed into six tote bags for quick and easy distribution. We include our signature classic flavors such as Almond, Krunch, Peanut Butter, Caramel, and our Wildcat bar. Sellers always have something their community will enjoy.

After registering, the materials are ready within 24 hours. We offer both pickup and shipping options to help you start your fundraiser as soon as possible.

Getting started is simple. Contact our fundraising team, set up your account, place your order for delivery or pickup, and begin selling. The process is fast, reliable, and proven to help your group reach its goals.

With Old Kentucky Chocolates, you are choosing a fundraiser that people feel good about supporting. It is easy to run, enjoyable to sell, and a sweet way to make a meaningful impact.

Your Guide to Giving the Best Holiday Gifts This Season

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 13:30:12 GMT

Whether you are gathering for Thanksgiving, Christmas, marking an anniversary, or surprising someone, a handcrafted box from Old Kentucky Chocolates turns every occasion into an experience worth remembering.

Opening a box filled with bourbon chocolates, smooth Fleur De Sel Caramels, or decadent Cordial Cherries is a joy all its own. It tells the recipient that they deserve something sweet, memorable, and made with care. That is why every product starts with high-quality ingredients and artisans who have carried Kentucky tradition forward for generations.

Preparing for a special occasion? Our Bourbon Fruitcakes, Oreo Peppermint Bark, and Derby Mints are favorites that bring Kentucky flavor to any occasion. For a bigger impression during the holidays, our gift towers are sure to impress. Available in a range of sizes, from the Perfect Pair to our Ultimate Tower, they are perfect for corporate gifts, client appreciation, and hostess gifts. Each tower is filled with handpicked favorites like our truffles, caramels, cherries, or chocolate-dipped treats.

Whether you are sharing gratitude, celebrating a new chapter, or surprising someone you love, Old Kentucky Chocolates offers gifts that feel heartfelt and luxurious. When you give Old Kentucky Chocolates, you are giving the gift everyone hopes to receive: something handmade, generous, and meant to be enjoyed.

Gifts for Every Occasion: Old Kentucky Chocolates

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 13:28:19 GMT

Finding the right gift can feel overwhelming. You want something meaningful that shows care and thought, but it can be hard to find a gift that truly stands out. Whether it’s for a birthday, wedding, client appreciation, or holiday celebration, every occasion deserves a gift that feels heartfelt and memorable.

At Old Kentucky Chocolates, our family has handcrafted gourmet chocolates and candies since 1964. From our signature bourbon chocolates, truffles, caramels, and cherries to our beloved chocolate-covered strawberries or grapes, sea salt caramels, and assorted truffles, each bite is unforgettable.

Our assorted gift towers make gifting a win for everyone. Varying in sizes and styles to match the needs of your recipients, we’ll help make gifting feel easy and personalized.

There is something so special about gifting Old Kentucky Chocolates. Opening a box filled with decadent truffles, smooth caramels, and handcrafted bourbon confections creates a moment of pure joy. It is a way to share gratitude, celebrate milestones, or remind someone how much they mean to you. With each bite, your gift becomes part of their story, something they’ll remember and talk about long after the last piece is gone.

When you choose Old Kentucky Chocolates, you are not just giving candy. You are sharing a piece of Kentucky tradition and creating a gift experience that feels personal, luxurious, and unforgettable.

Why Lexington Loves Old Kentucky Chocolates: A Local Favorite for 50+ Years

Fri, 03 Oct 2025 13:26:29 GMT

Old Kentucky Chocolates has been a sweet part of Lexington since 1964. Our story began when Don and Pam Hurt shifted from running a bakery to following their passion for chocolate. What started as a small backroom operation has grown into a family-run business with multiple locations across Lexington.

From our flagship shop on Southland Drive to our 3 additional stores in Lansdowne, Palomar, and Hamburg, we’ve expanded over the years while keeping our roots strong. We even have one more storefront coming very soon to the Masterson Station area, projected to open late 2025. We pride ourselves on using quality ingredients, many sourced right here in Kentucky, from fresh creams and fruit to, of course, the very best bourbon.

Our bourbon chocolates and cherries are timeless favorites, while sea salt caramels, chocolate-covered potato chips, and our chocolate-covered strawberries and grapes never fail to sweeten any moment. We love crafting seasonal specialties too, so there’s always something new to discover in store.

For more than five decades, Lexington has supported us, celebrated with us, and shared our chocolates with loved ones. Our community is one that we are extremely grateful for. That’s why we look for ways to give back and support local sports teams, churches, and other organizations with fundraising efforts. Learn more about our fundraising at oldkycandies.com .

From our family to yours, thank you for making Old Kentucky Chocolates a part of your traditions.

Press Release: Old Kentucky Chocolates Offering Chocolate to Benefit Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 13:25:00 GMT

Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation announced that it is partnering with Old Kentucky Chocolates to raise money for equine veterinary research through the production and sale of equine-inspired boxes of chocolate. The boxes will contain information on Grayson and ways to donate, and $1 from each box sold will go toward the foundation.

“We are excited to partner with Old Kentucky Chocolates to enable anyone who loves horses and sweets to gift a taste of Central Kentucky to others while supporting an important cause,” said Dell Hancock, chairman of Grayson.

“Horses are synonymous with Kentucky, and we are honored to offer an item that directly supports their health and wellness,” said Julia Kirkpatrick, co-owner of Old Kentucky Chocolates. “These delicious boxes of chocolate are sure to be a hit with anyone who appreciates the horse, whether they are sent as an individual gift or as part of a large gathering.”

The specialty boxes are available now for online or phone orders and will be offered in-store starting in late October. Farms, tracks, racing fans, and horse lovers alike can order at oldkycandy.com or by calling 859-278-4444.

Grayson-Jockey Club Research Foundation is traditionally the nation's leading source of private funding for equine medical research that benefits all breeds of horses. Since 1983, the foundation has provided more than $32.1 million to fund 412 projects at 45 universities in North America and overseas. Additional information about the foundation is available at grayson-jockeyclub.org .

Old Kentucky Chocolates began making small batch Bourbon Chocolates in 1964. Now in their third generation, this family-owned business continues to craft artisan chocolates with creativity, patience and mastery.

Chocolate Storage: Tips for Keeping Chocolate Fresh

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:20:56 GMT

A common question we get here at OKC is how one should properly store chocolate in order to keep it fresh. There's a little bit more to it than just putting it in the fridge to chill.

Storage Conditions: Chocolate should ideally be stored between 65° - 68° F with a humidity of 55%. These conditions will prevent chocolate from "blooming" - which will be explained later in this article.
Odors: Chocolate absorbs smells around it which can affect the taste. Make sure the storage area is free of any strong odors such as cheese, cleaning products, etc.
Refrigeration: As much as you can, try to avoid refrigerating your chocolate. If you must, seal the chocolate in some type of air-tight container or bag to protect from odors and moisture while in the fridge.
Moisture: Water and chocolate do not go well together. Any moisture that comes in contact with chocolate can cause it to have an unappetizing appearance as well as a gritty texture. Moisture can accumulate if storage conditions have high humidity or the chocolate is warmed up too quickly after refrigeration. To prevent this, allow the chocolate to warm-up to room temperature inside an air-tight container before consuming.
Light: Everyone knows that sunlight is bad for chocolate but so is artificial light such as from a desk lamp. Store your chocolate in not only an air-tight container but one that keeps it away from light as well.
Heat: Heat not only causes chocolate to melt but it can also lead to "bloom". Bloom is a whitish color that can be visible on the outside of the chocolate. It is caused by the cocoa butter in the chocolate separating towards the surface due to excess heat. Chocolate with bloom is still safe to eat - although, it will most likely have a gritty and unpleasant texture.

Just like all perishable foods, chocolate is best when consumed freshly made! Keep these things in mind when storing your chocolate and it will stay delicious for much longer!

Old Kentucky Chocolates named "Best of Lexington" 2023: Best Candy Store

Wed, 16 Aug 2023 12:43:15 GMT

On August 13th, 2023, Old Kentucky Chocolates was named Best Candy Store in Best of Lexington 2023. In addition, they placed silver in the "Best Dessert" and "Best Place to Buy a Gift".

Best of Lexington had over 3,200 businesses, organizations, and individuals competing to be named in the top three spots of 221 categories. More than 180,000 votes were cast.

A Brief History of Chocolate

Fri, 20 Jan 2023 19:36:04 GMT

Chocolate has a rich and storied history that spans thousands of years. The earliest known use of chocolate can be traced back to the ancient Mesoamerican cultures of Mexico and Central America. The Aztecs, Mayans, and other indigenous peoples believed that chocolate was a gift from the gods and used it in a variety of ways, including as a beverage, a currency, and an offering to their deities.

The first chocolate factory in the United States was established in 1765 by a man named John Hanan. He used imported cocoa beans to make chocolate which he sold to other confectioners. In 1828, Conrad Van Houten invented the hydraulic press, which made it possible to produce cocoa powder on a large scale. This was a major breakthrough for the chocolate industry, as it made it possible to produce chocolate at a lower cost and in greater quantities.

In 1875, Daniel Peter invented milk chocolate by adding condensed milk to chocolate. This new type of chocolate quickly became popular and is still the most common type of chocolate consumed today. In the early 20th century, chocolate began to be mass-produced and marketed to consumers, with companies like Nestle and Hershey's leading the way.

During World War II, chocolate was rationed in many countries, as it was considered a luxury item. However, it remained popular and in high demand. After the war, chocolate consumption continued to grow, and new types of chocolate, such as white chocolate, were introduced. Today, chocolate is enjoyed by people all over the world and is a multi-billion dollar industry.

Chocolate's history is a fascinating one, with roots that go back to ancient civilizations and a story that continues to evolve today. From being a ceremonial drink to a currency, and a luxury item to a mass-produced treat, chocolate has come a long way. Today, it is enjoyed by people all over the world and is a multi-billion dollar industry. The next time you indulge in a piece of chocolate, take a moment to think about the rich history that lies behind it.