Riesen

German chocolate candy

File:Riesen Candy.jpg

Riesen candies in their packaging

Riesen is a brand of chocolate candy manufactured by the German company August Storck KG. It is known for its distinctive chewy texture and rich chocolate flavor. Riesen candies are a popular treat in many countries and are often enjoyed by those who appreciate a combination of chocolate and caramel.

History

Riesen was first introduced in the 1930s by the German confectionery company August Storck KG. The candy was initially marketed as a hard caramel sweet, but over the years, it evolved into the chocolate-covered chewy candy that is known today. The name "Riesen" translates to "giant" in German, which reflects the candy's substantial size compared to other similar confections.

Composition

Riesen candies consist of a chewy caramel center that is coated in a layer of dark chocolate. The caramel is made from a blend of sugar, cream, and butter, which is cooked to a specific consistency to achieve the desired chewiness. The dark chocolate coating adds a rich, bittersweet flavor that complements the sweetness of the caramel.

Manufacturing Process

The production of Riesen involves several steps:

1. Caramel Preparation: The caramel is prepared by heating sugar, cream, and butter until it reaches the right consistency. This mixture is then cooled and cut into small pieces.
2. Chocolate Coating: The caramel pieces are enrobed in a layer of dark chocolate. This is done using a process called enrobing, where the caramel pieces are passed through a curtain of melted chocolate.
3. Cooling and Packaging: After coating, the candies are cooled to allow the chocolate to set. They are then packaged in distinctive wrappers that help preserve their freshness.

Popularity and Cultural Impact

Riesen has maintained its popularity over the decades due to its unique taste and texture. It is often marketed as a "grown-up" candy, appealing to adults who enjoy more sophisticated flavors. The candy is available in various packaging sizes, making it suitable for both individual consumption and sharing.

Related Products

Riesen is part of a broader range of confectionery products offered by August Storck KG. Other popular brands from the company include Werther's Original, Toffifee, and Merci. Each of these products has its own unique characteristics and target audience.

Related Pages

• August Storck KG
• Chocolate
• Caramel
• Confectionery