Local Sweets for Your Sweetheart
If you’re looking to treat yourself or a loved one this Valentine’s Day, Arizona’s chocolatiers and candymakers have got your back.
Because February 14th doubles as Arizona’s birthday, what better way to celebrate than by going local for all your day’s sweet needs? Read on for some of our favorites and discover deals for Local First Arizona fans like you.
Chocolates
While chocolate isn’t a staple crop for Arizona, that hasn’t stopped our local roasters and artisans from greatness. If you’re looking for traditional flavors or a desert flair, these chocolatiers hit the mark:
DNA Chocolates | Mesa
Rare and exceptional cacao beans. Locally handcrafted in Arizona. Responsibly and fair-trade sourced direct from organic farmers. Free valley-wide delivery for all orders received before Feb 9th! Orders will be delivered on Thursday, February 13 and Friday, February 14. Shop online or find a local retailer here. Mention Local First Arizona and receive an extra 20% off!
bNaked Chocolates | Scottsdale
Thoughtful chocolates, coconut macaroons, bars, desserts and other treats made without dairy, soy, gluten or refined sugar. Paleo, vegan, diabetic & raw friendly, crafted to improve performance and health. Don’t miss their special Valentines Day gift boxes! Order here.
The Candy Kitchen at Black Mesa Ranch | Snowflake
A retired goat dairy and cheesemaker has perfected his craft in chocolate. Check out David’s full line of truffles, caramels, fudges, toffees, and order now for delivery in time for Valentine's Day. No minimums required for delivery! Order here.
Zak’s Chocolates | Scottsdale
Order online, or browse their small factory and retail shop in Scottsdale where you will be able to see them making chocolate directly from the bean, and pick up some for your own enjoyment. Find vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free chocolate bars, bonbons, and caramels. Be sure to take home some Sonoran Desert White Chocolate. You’re welcome.
Carolina’s Chocolates | Mesa
Warm flavors of cinnamon, chili, and cream melt with a silkiness and surprising heat. Order your holiday treats here, and don’t miss Chef Lisa Toon as she showcases her craft at Devour the World on Saturday, February 15th in Peoria.
Looking for more? Meet all of Arizona’s chocolatiers and find the closest one to you on Good Food Finder AZ here.
Candies & Confections
From prickly pear candies and honeymallow to locally grown pecans and hot-red-coated apples, Arizona’s makers have something for every sweet tooth.
Untamed Confections | Tubac
Ever had a caramel made of mesquite honey? If not, you’re missing out. Untamed Confection's Gourmet Honey Caramels and Chocolates are organic and hand crafted in small batches. Sonoran Desert Wildflower honey is the only sweetener which creates a soft, buttery, rich, melt-in-your-mouth gourmet caramels of exotic flavors. Shop at the retail location in Tubac, or order online here.
The Simple Farm Caramels | Phoenix
Fresh goat milk caramel will change your life. Break open a package of their Sea Salt Goat Milk Caramels and judge for yourself. You can not eat just one. The farm is no longer open to the public, but you can get to know the goats on the farm’s Instagram and place your order online here.
Cheri’s Desert Harvest | Tucson
Cheri’s all-natural products are made from fresh fruits and vegetables indigenous to the Sonoran Desert. The fruits are hand-harvested at the peak of ripeness to capture their exceptional flavor, texture, and nutrition. The prickly pear cactus candy will have your loved one swooning for you, and the desert. Visit the Tucson store or order here.
Not Your Granny’s Apples | Mesa
These gourmet caramel apples might have a vintage flair, but we can assure you the flavors and look are modern and fun. February’s flavor of the month is Cinnamon Bear and Chocolate Covered Cinnamon Bear 🐻 . It’s a hot-spicy-and-a-little-bit-sweet combo of cinnamon and apple. It’s addicting, like your love. Get your orders in today!
Looking for more? Meet all of Arizona’s candymakers and find the closest one to you here.
One-Stop Shops
Tracy Dempsey Originals
Tempe, Arizona
Get your wine, local chocolates, fresh local produce, and more to make your Valentine’s day more delicious than ever.
Sphinx Date Co Palm & Pantry
Scottsdale, Arizona
Find many of the above goodies, as well as medjool dates, dried fruit & nuts, locally-crafted pantry goods, Arizona wines and craft beer.
Arizona Farmers Markets
Statewide
Pick up all your local fixings – from fresh produce to locally raised meats, from honey to the freshest pastries and croissants around.
Editor’s Note: Featured product photos are from featured businesses’ social media accounts.