I try to limit the candy and sweets that seem to be such a staple of the Easter holiday. I look for ways to include sweet treats without going overboard. Trader Joe’s offers a wonderful selection of dried fruit and nuts that my kids love and offer a healthier alternative to candy. Our favorites are the dried blueberries and dried Turkish apricots. Of course, we have to have a bit of candy and chocolate in our baskets. For these, I look to local companies offering high quality products.
Maine Gourmet Chocolate at 170 Main Street in Auburn offers a delightful selection of high-quality, delicious chocolates and candy items. I was thrilled with their creative chocolate items and equally thrilled with the taste! This family-run business recently opened up shop in downtown Auburn but has been in the chocolate business for 20 years. You’ll find adorable chocolate bunnies as well as an assortment of needhams, truffles, chocolate popcorn, “bunny bait,” barks, flavored nut brittles, lollipops, chocolate pops and so much more.
While you are there, stop by Top-It Frozen Yogurt Bar next door to pick up some gift certificates for Easter baskets. Kids will delight in a delicious, frozen treat come warmer spring weather.
Yummo Snacks
Established in 2012 and owned and operated by the Pike family since November 2013, Yummo Snacks offers custom containers of cotton candy and candy coated popcorn. Guaranteed fresh, their products are sold in hundreds of retail locations throughout Maine (and moving into New Hampshire) and can also be ordered online or by phone. Cotton candy containers come in 16oz for $1.50 each or 32oz for $2.00 each and feature custom labels. Candy Coated Popcorn is available in Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Grape, Red Hot Cinnamon, Caramel, and Sweet Corn. Each 2oz bag costs $2.50 each and sports custom labels as well. To place an order, call 207-689-5092.
