The chocolate turkey has become a beloved Thanksgiving tradition for many families. This whimsical treat not only looks great displayed on your holiday table, but it also provides a fun chocolatey snack once the big meal is over. However, with so many options available from mass-produced candy to artisanal confections, it can be tricky to know where to find the best chocolate turkeys. This guide will walk you through the different places to buy chocolate turkeys and what to look for when selecting the perfect one for your Thanksgiving.
Online Retailers
One of the easiest ways to purchase a chocolate turkey is through large online retailers like Amazon. Here you’ll find a wide selection of pre-packaged and bulk chocolate turkeys at various price points. Amazon frequently stocks popular brands like Lindt Russel Stover and Dove. The major benefit of ordering through Amazon is convenience – items ship quickly and you can easily compare options using their customer ratings and reviews. Just be aware that shopping on Amazon means you likely won’t get the highest quality artisan chocolates.
Pros:
- Huge selection of mass-produced and affordable chocolate turkey options
- Fast shipping with Amazon Prime
- Helpful customer reviews guide purchasing
Cons:
- Lack unique, artisanal selections
- Unable to taste test products before buying
Top Sellers on Amazon:
- Madelaine Chocolate Turkeys (Milk or Dark)
- Philadelphia Candies Tom Turkey Chocolates
- Sweetzo Chocolate Turkeys
Specialty Chocolate Shops
For premium, artisan-crafted chocolate turkeys, specialty chocolate shops are the way to go These small businesses focus exclusively on gourmet confections, taking great care in sourcing fine ingredients and using traditional chocolate-making techniques. The chocolate turkeys you’ll find at these retailers are edible works of art, from hand-piped designs to artistic embellishments. Expect to pay more for this level of quality and artistry You’ll also likely need to order further in advance to allow for production time and shipping.
Pros:
- Unique chocolate turkey designs and fillings
- High attention to quality ingredients and craftsmanship
- Support small/local businesses
Cons:
- Limited selection compared to mega retailers
- Potentially long production and shipping times
- More expensive price points
Top Chocolatiers for Turkeys:
- L.A. Burdick (NH, MA, NY)
- Bissinger’s (MO)
- Christopher Elbow (KS)
- Fran’s Chocolates (WA)
Grocery Stores and Warehouse Clubs
For those who prefer in-person shopping or need a last-minute turkey, grocery stores and warehouse retailers often stock chocolate turkeys during the fall. Shop mainstream markets like Safeway or Kroger to find mass-produced candy options. Meanwhile, Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s or specialty grocers may carry slightly more upscale or unique varieties. The selection will be smaller than online, but you can hand pick your turkey and take it home right away. Just be aware of sell-out risks closer to the holiday.
Pros:
- See and select product in person
- Immediate gratification – buy and take home same day
- May find niche local chocolatiers
Cons:
- Limited inventory that sells out closer to holiday
- Most lack premium/artisan chocolate turkey options
Chains to Check for Chocolate Turkeys:
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Whole Foods
- Trader Joe’s
- Costco
Choosing Your Chocolate Turkey
Once you’ve decided where to buy, keep these tips in mind when selecting your ideal chocolate turkey:
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Size – Small turkeys around 1 ounce are ideal as place card holders or favors Larger 6-8 ounce turkeys make impressive centerpieces
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Design – Look for handmade details vs. factory-molded pieces. Handpiped designs have more artistry.
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Chocolate Type – Milk, dark, white and flavored (maple, peppermint) are all popular. Consider taste preferences.
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Fillings – Ganache, caramel, nuts, and fruit fills add flavor. Truffle consistency is creamier.
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Decorations – Artistic touches like feathers, drizzle, colorful foils elevate.
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Price – Handmade turkeys from quality chocolatiers can cost $5-$15 per ounce.
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Brand Reputation – Look to ratings, reviews, food blogs or awards when available.
The beauty of the chocolate turkey tradition is that there’s an option for every taste and budget today. With a bit of pre-planning and research, you can find everything from a simple chocolate novelty turkey to an edible art piece worthy of a fine gallery and wow guests at your Thanksgiving table. Just leave a bit of extra time for shipping specialty confections and confirm all food allergies and dietary restrictions are met before purchase. Then relax and enjoy your chocolatey find knowing it will make your holiday celebration that much sweeter.
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TRYING A CHOCOLATE TURKEY FOR THANKSGIVING
FAQ
Who makes chocolate turkey?
Chocolate Turkeys – Bissinger’s Handcrafted Chocolatier.
Are chocolate turkeys rare?
The history behind this breed is unclear. They were common in the southern U.S. and France before the Civil War. Large numbers of of the breed were lost during the war and never made a come back. Today they are still critically endangered.
Are chocolate turkeys friendly?
Comparing Breed Characteristics
They were quite a bit smaller than the other heritage turkey breeds. They were docile and friendly and extremely easy to handle. Chocolate: My tom of this breed was the dominate tom of the 4 I had in the group.
What is the best chocolate from Turkey?
Although Turkish Delight may be the most well-known chocolate from Turkey, there are a ton of other great chocolates and chocolate bars to be enjoyed! World of Snacks now offers your favorite Turkish Chocolates including the very best from loved brands ETi, Ulker, and Elvan!
Are Vermont chocolate placesetting turkeys good for Thanksgiving?
When your guests sit down to Thanksgiving dinner, give them each a sweet surprise they’ll adore — and gobble right up for dessert. Crafted from pure organic milk or dark chocolate, these whimsical placesetting turkeys are a delicious holiday favorite adding just the right touch of Vermont chocolate artistry to your Thanksgiving table.
What are Vermont chocolate placesetting turkeys made of?
Crafted from pure organic milk or dark chocolate, these whimsical placesetting turkeys are a delicious holiday favorite adding just the right touch of Vermont chocolate artistry to your Thanksgiving table. There are no products listed under this category. Join our email list & enter to win FREE Chocolates!
Are chocolate turkeys heritage breeds?
Most of today’s Chocolate Turkey flocks have some Bronze, Bourbon Red, or Narragansett in their DNA due to the decimation of the breed. This doesn’t mean they aren’t a heritage breed according to The Livestock Conservancy which accepts them as a true heritage breed. The APA doesn’t accept them as a pure breed.