KESSHŌ Craft Chocolate
Discover the refined world of KESSHŌ, where each chocolate bar is crafted with intention, purity, and an unwavering devotion to flavor. Every creation reflects a meticulous balance of artistry and technique—an invitation to savor chocolate at its most expressive and beautifully made.
KESSHŌ's Story and Philosophy
KESSHŌ Craft Chocolate distinguishes itself with its unique focus on Asian-inspired bean-to-bar craft chocolate. Founded by Liang Wang and Mark Huetsch, KESSHŌ originated from their successful Beijing bakery, “Pantry’s Best,” before they relocated their bean-to-bar operations to a boutique factory in Austin, Texas. The name KESSHŌ, meaning “Crystal” in Japanese, fittingly celebrates both the intricate crystalline structure of finely tempered chocolate and the reward of their precise, painstaking labor. They demonstrate an unwavering commitment to quality by meticulously executing every step of the chocolate-making process, from sourcing superb cacao beans through transparent trade with partners like Kokoa Kamili and Uncommon Cacao, to the final delicate tempering and molding. This dedication has resulted in multiple ICA and AOC awards for their products, which include bars, bonbons, and nama chocolates. The brand’s identity is beautifully reinforced by packaging that uses watercolor and traditional Chinese painting techniques, reflecting their mission to create an orchestra of flavors with single-origin cacaos and hand-selected Asian ingredients, thereby offering a portal to the rich cultures behind them while supporting cacao farmers globally.
KESSHŌ's Bean-To-Bar Process
Crafting Excellence
Carefully Handpicked Cacao Beans
The first step in making their craft chocolate is handpicking the cacao beans. They carefully select only the best beans, making sure to remove any impurities or damaged ones.
Roasting the Beans
Roasting is a vital process in converting cacao beans into chocolate, enhancing their flavor while eliminating impurities. Each batch is carefully roasted at the optimal temperature and for the appropriate duration to maintain their unique flavor profiles.
Cracking and Separating the Beans
They crack the beans into small pieces and use a vacuum pressure technique to gently remove the lighter shells, leaving only the valuable cocoa nibs. Skilled artisans then handpick the nibs to ensure that no shells remain, resulting in chocolate with a truly exceptional taste.
Carefully Grind and Conch
They grind the cocoa nibs in a traditional stone grinder, gradually stirring the chocolate at elevated temperatures to enhance flavor development. They incorporate cocoa butter, sugar, and unique Asian flavors to ensure a perfect blend. This process lasts 24 to 72 hours, allowing the flavors to harmonize for an exceptional taste.
Temper and Mold the Bar
Cocoa butter forms various crystal structures at different temperatures, which is why KESSHŌ was chosen for the brand name. These crystals give the chocolate its glossy appearance, satisfying snap, and delightful melt-in-your-mouth texture. The chocolate is carefully tempered to ensure stability, poured into molds, vibrated to eliminate air bubbles, and the cooling process is meticulously controlled to achieve a perfect final product.
Wrapping and Enjoying
Once the chocolate is set, it is gently removed from the molds and inspected. Then the fun begins as each piece is wrapped in aluminum foil and packaged in recyclable materials, creating a delightful treat of craft chocolate that is ready for customers to enjoy.
Distinctive Flavor Profiles
Rich Dark Chocolate
Creamy Milk Chocolate
Indulge in the smooth and creamy texture of their milk chocolate, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and cacao richness.
Exotic Infusions
What Our Customers Are Saying
“Shockingly original, yet supremely craveable. I was really reluctant to try this bar, and wasn’t even sure how I felt about it after the first taste; but, by the third bite I was completely smitten. This is an intriguing and fascinating combination of flavors. They all work perfectly to create an unforgettable flavor profile. If you love something different, but not so different that it’s weird, try this.”
May 2022
“Pretty and tasty This was beautiful bubbly bar and tasty. Bought it for a chocolate tasting and this was one of the crowds’ favorites. Many said it had a fruity flavor.”
March 2024
“Incredible hot chocolate I have high standards for hot chocolate and this is one of my favorites! It’s dark and decadent, without having fillers or other crappy ingredients in it. I love to prepare it with cashew milk. It’s become my winter obsession, a definite must try!”
November 2024
Explore KESSHŌ's Creations
Chocolate Gallery
Indulge in KESSHŌ's Exquisite Selection
Discover the rich flavors and unique profiles of KESSHŌ Craft Chocolate. Elevate your taste experience with their carefully crafted bars, each telling a story of tradition and quality. Treat yourself or find the perfect gift for a loved one.
