Bean to bar workshop

Bean to bar workshops teach the complete chocolate-making process, from selecting cocoa beans to the final bar.

About this subject

The bean to bar movement represents a craft and transparent approach to chocolate making. Unlike conventional industry, which uses standardized cocoa masses, bean to bar chocolatiers control every step: bean selection, roasting, cracking, grinding, conching, and tempering. This allows highlighting specific terroirs, such as those from Bahia or Pará in Brazil, and promoting sustainable practices.

In a typical workshop, participants learn to identify cocoa beans from different origins, observe the impact of roasting on flavor, and experience textures during grinding. The conching process, which can take hours, is explained as the step that refines texture and reduces acidity. At the end, each person tempers and molds their own bars, gaining a hands-on understanding of the science behind chocolate.

These workshops gained popularity in Brazil from the 2010s onward, driven by the growth of the fine chocolate market and demand for ethical products. Many include discussions on fair trade and supply chains, connecting consumers to cacao farmers. Additionally, the full sensory experience educates about quality: a 70% bean to bar chocolate can have fruity, floral, or earthy notes that are lost in mass-produced chocolates.

Fun fact: cacao was domesticated over 5,000 years ago in the Amazon, and Brazil is one of the world's largest producers. However, only a fraction of this cacao is transformed into single-origin chocolate within the country, making bean to bar workshops a tool for valuing local production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is bean to bar chocolate?

It is craft chocolate made from selected cocoa beans, with full control of the process by the maker, preserving the unique characteristics of each origin.

How long does a bean to bar workshop last?

Typically 3 to 6 hours, depending on the depth of the experience and the number of hands-on steps included.

Do I need previous experience to attend?

No. Workshops are designed for beginners, with detailed explanations and supervision throughout the process.