Indulge in Candied & Chocolate-Covered Fruit: A UK Shopper’s Guide to Sweet Elegance

What are candied and chocolate-covered fruits?

If you’ve ever bitten into a glossy, sugar-kissed strawberry or a fig wrapped in a jacket of dark chocolate, you know this is one of life’s small luxuries. Candied fruit is fruit that’s been cooked in sugar syrup until tender and translucent, while chocolate-covered fruit is fresh or dried fruit coated in melted chocolate and allowed to set. Together they offer a contrast of textures — the chew of fruit and the snap or creaminess of chocolate — that feels indulgent but somehow sophisticated, like dessert dressed up for a dinner party.

Spotlight: Coffee Friend and the Forest Feast range

Coffee Friend is one of the retailers that stocks elegant fruit-based treats, and one of the lines to look out for is Forest Feast. Two standout items are the dark chocolate-coated sour cherries and the dark chocolate-coated figs. These products show how a single brand can elevate simple fruit into a decadent nibble perfect for after-dinner moments or a luxury snack with a cup of coffee. If you like bold flavors, these are worth hunting down.

Forest Feast Dark Chocolate-coated Sour Cherries — 4.23 oz

Imagine tart, tangy sour cherries wrapped in a layer of rich dark chocolate — that’s the Forest Feast sour cherries in a nutshell. At roughly 4.23 ounces per pack, they’re sized for sharing or for stashing in your bag as a grown-up treat. The tartness of the cherry cuts through the chocolate’s bitterness, creating a lively, palate-refreshing bite that keeps you coming back for one more.

Forest Feast Dark Chocolate-coated Figs — 4.94 oz

Figs have a natural honey-like sweetness and a lovely chewy texture; enrobe them in dark chocolate and you get a sublime contrast that’s both rustic and refined. The Forest Feast figs come in a pack of about 4.94 ounces, and each piece is a little jewel: chewy interior, seeds that add a mild crunch, and the bittersweet chocolate that ties it all together. They work brilliantly on cheese boards or as an elegant stocking filler.

Where to buy candied and chocolate-covered fruit in the UK

Finding premium chocolate-covered fruit is easier than you might think — both high-street grocers and specialist shops stock them. Besides Coffee Friend, look to major and boutique retailers for variety and occasional limited-edition flavors. Below I run through reliable places to shop, whether you’re buying for yourself, a friend, or a party.

Marks & Spencer — reliable and seasonal

Marks & Spencer is known for its seasonal food ranges and frequent limited-edition sweet treats. Their chocolate-covered fruit offerings often balance quality chocolate with real fruit and are a good middle ground between everyday and gourmet. Look out around holidays for special packaging and unique flavors.

Fortnum & Mason — luxury classics

If you’re shopping for something with classic British elegance, Fortnum & Mason is a go-to. Their confectionery selection often includes high-quality candied fruits and chocolate-coated delicacies presented in heirloom-worthy tins — perfect for gifting or making a statement on a dessert table.

Hotel Chocolat — chocolate-first approach

Hotel Chocolat leans heavily into chocolate provenance and variety, so when they produce chocolate-covered fruit you can expect carefully selected cocoa and well-balanced sweetness. If you care about the beans behind the bar as much as the fruit, this is a great place to explore creative combinations and single-origin chocolates.

Waitrose & Partners — trustworthy quality

Waitrose often stocks premium grocery brands alongside its own-label luxury items. Their chocolate-dipped fruit offerings tend to use good-quality ingredients and sensible portion sizes, making them a safe bet for home entertaining or weekend treats without straying into overly fancy territory.

Tesco, Sainsbury’s & Ocado — range and convenience

Big supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury’s offer convenience and competitive prices, and online specialist supermarkets such as Ocado often carry both supermarket brands and niche producers. If you want to compare options and prices quickly, these retailers are practical starting points.

Independent chocolatiers and artisan shops — for unique finds

Don’t underestimate local chocolatiers and artisan food shops. Many hand-produce chocolate-coated fruit with seasonal fruit, single-origin chocolate, or unusual flavors like chili, sea salt, or orange zest. These small-batch producers are great for discovering new favorites and supporting local craftsmanship.

How to choose quality chocolate-covered fruit

Not all chocolate-covered fruit is created equal. Some are overly sweet, others use low-quality chocolate that masks the fruit. Choosing well means paying attention to a few key details that separate a dull treat from something you’ll remember.

Check the chocolate percentage and texture

Dark chocolate that’s too low in cocoa can taste cloying; too high and it may overpower the fruit. Look for descriptions that list the cocoa percentage or use terms like “dark” or “single-origin.” Texture matters too — good chocolate should set with a pleasant snap (if tempered properly) or a smooth melt on the tongue.

Look for real fruit and minimal additives

Ingredients should read like food, not a chemistry lesson. Real fruit, sugar or fruit syrups, and chocolate should be at the top of the list. Avoid products with lots of artificial colors, flavors, or unnecessary stabilizers if you want a natural taste experience.

Packaging and portion size

Packaging affects freshness and convenience. Airtight boxes or resealable pouches help keep chocolate from blooming or absorbing moisture. Consider portion size too — single-share packs are handy for snacks, while larger tins are better for entertaining.

Flavor pairings and serving ideas

Chocolate-covered fruit plays well with many other flavors. Whether you’re building a cheese board or treating guests, pairing thoughtfully can elevate the experience from “nice” to “memorable.”

Cheese boards and charcuterie pairings

Yes, sweet and savory can be best friends. Dark chocolate-coated figs or cherries pair beautifully with aged cheeses like Manchego or Parmesan, balancing salt and umami with fruit sweetness. Add some nuts and a drizzle of honey, and you’ve got a board that looks like you worked all afternoon but took minutes to assemble.

Wine and drink pairings

Want to pair with wine? For dark chocolate-coated fruits, try a glass of tawny port, late-harvest Riesling, or even a robust red like Shiraz. Coffee and espresso also work brilliantly — the bitterness in the drink emphasizes the fruit’s brightness and the chocolate’s depth.

Dessert upgrades and recipes

Use chocolate-covered fruit as a shortcut to wow-factor desserts. Chop them into ice cream, scatter over panna cotta, or use them as a garnish on tarts. You can also gently warm certain chocolate-covered fruits and fold them into whipped cream for a quick, fruity chocolate compote.

Storage, shelf life, and best-before tips

Proper storage keeps these treats tasting their best. Chocolate and fruit have different storage needs, so here’s how to balance them without sacrificing texture or flavor.

Short-term storage at room temperature

If you plan to eat your chocolate-covered fruit within a week or two, keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Room temperatures that are not too warm help prevent the chocolate from melting and the fruit from sweating. A pantry shelf or cupboard usually works fine.

Long-term storage and freezing tips

For longer storage, freezing can be an option, but it’s a bit delicate. Wrap items individually in parchment and store in an airtight container to prevent freezer burn. When you defrost, do so slowly in the refrigerator to avoid moisture condensing on the chocolate. Expect slight texture changes, but flavor can remain surprisingly good.

Health and nutrition: treat mindfully

Chocolate-covered fruit feels like a compromise between healthy and indulgent. It’s fruit, but often contains added sugar and chocolate, so portion control and ingredient choices matter. Here’s how to enjoy smartly without killing the pleasure.

Calorie considerations and portion control

These treats pack energy in a small package. A few pieces deliver a satisfying hit of sweetness, so try measured portions rather than mindless grazing. Think of them as dessert-sized delights rather than snack-sized excuses to polish off a whole box.

Dark chocolate benefits and sugar content

Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and can be lower in sugar than milk chocolate, making it a slightly healthier choice. But remember, the fruit itself is often candied or syruped, which adds sugar. Balance is key: choosing higher cocoa content and smaller portions will let you enjoy the positives without overdoing it.

Buying tips: how to find the best deals in the UK

Anyone who loves chocolate-covered fruit knows good deals can make exploration more fun. Here are smart strategies for getting variety without overspending.

Seasonal buys and bulk purchases

Retailers often release special flavors around seasonal events, and buying in bulk can reduce per-unit cost — especially if you’re entertaining. Watch for multi-pack offers, bundle deals, or seasonal sales where high-quality brands are marked down.

Look for ethically sourced chocolate

Many brands now highlight ethical sourcing and sustainable farming. If fair labor and environmental impact matter to you, choose brands that disclose their cocoa sourcing or carry certifications like Fairtrade. Ethically produced chocolate tends to taste better too — it’s like paying a little extra for better story and better flavor.

Final thoughts: making the most of candied and chocolate-covered fruit

Chocolate-coated fruit is a delightful niche where fruit’s natural appeal meets chocolate’s universal charm. From the tart snap of a sour cherry to the honeyed chew of a fig, these treats can be simple pleasures or showstopping components of a dessert spread. Whether you shop at Coffee Friend for Forest Feast items or explore offerings from M&S, Fortnum & Mason, Hotel Chocolat, and local chocolatiers, there’s a version to match every mood and budget. Treat them like jewel-like accents — little bites that transform ordinary moments into something a bit more luxurious.

Next time you reach for a sweet, consider the story behind it: the fruit, the chocolate, and the hands that made it. That attention turns a small indulgence into a tiny celebration.