As the holiday season approaches, one of my absolute favorite traditions is the advent calendar. There’s something truly magical about tearing open a tiny window each day in December to unveil a sweet treat. This year, I’ve found a unique way to celebrate this delightful countdown: by creating my own advent calendar at La Maison du Chocolat in New York City.
Culinary Journey to France
On a chilly evening, I bundled up and made my way to La Maison du Chocolat on the Upper East Side, located on Madison Avenue between 78th and 79th Streets. Known for its exquisite French chocolates, the shop offers a DIY advent calendar experience that promises to be both fun and delicious. After warming up with a cup of their velvety hot cocoa, I was presented with a stunning blue-and-silver star-shaped calendar waiting to be filled with delectable treats.
As I perused the one-sheet listing of available chocolate options, I was struck by the variety: from rich ganaches to crunchy pralines. With the guidance of an expert chocolatier, I carefully selected my favorites, sampling a few along the way. The Extreme Chocolat ganache and the Rocher Noir, with its almond hazelnut praline and slivers of roasted almonds, quickly became my top picks.
Crafting the Perfect Advent Calendar
Once my choices were plated, the real fun began. Donning a pair of gloves, I eagerly started filling the advent calendar, placing a Sylvia Ganache (milk chocolate) in day five and adding chocolate-covered almonds to day 20. For day 24, I chose a larger nut-studded vanilla praline to make the grand finale truly special.
The experience was not just about assembling chocolates; it was an opportunity to immerse myself in the art of chocolate-making, surrounded by the warm, inviting ambiance of the shop. After carefully closing each slot and tucking the calendar into its decorative box, I stepped back into the brisk winter night, my heart a little warmer and my spirits lifted.
Sweet Holiday Tradition: Advent Calendar
If you’re looking for a delightful way to celebrate December, I highly recommend checking out La Maison du Chocolat’s Build Your Own Advent Calendar Experience. Scheduled for several dates, including November 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, and 24, this unique activity costs $100 per person. It’s a perfect outing for chocolate lovers, families, or anyone wanting to add a touch of sweetness to their holiday season.
Creating your own advent calendar not only brings the joy of anticipation but also allows you to personalize the experience with your favorite chocolates. The chance to learn from skilled chocolatiers while indulging in luxurious treats is something you won’t want to miss.
Embracing Tradition in NYC
New York City is a treasure trove of holiday experiences, and crafting a personalized advent calendar at La Maison du Chocolat is a fantastic way to embrace the season. This unique activity allows you to connect with the joy of tradition while savoring the rich flavors of artisanal chocolates. As the city sparkles with holiday lights, this experience captures the essence of New York’s vibrant culture—where creativity meets culinary delight, ensuring that every moment is truly special. So, bundle up, treat yourself, and dive into the sweetness of the holiday season!
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