Frequently Asked Questions

• Where do Leonidas chocolates come from?

  Where do Leonidas chocolates come from? Leonidas chocolates have been made in Belgium since 1913. The brand was founded by Leonidas Kestekides, a pastry chef and confectioner of Greek origin who settled in Brussels. Even today, the pralines are produced in Belgium using the traditional expertise of the Leonidas Master Chocolatiers.

• Do Leonidas chocolates contain palm oil?

  No. Leonidas uses only 100% pure cocoa butter chocolate and does not add any palm oil to its pralines. The brand does, however, point out that some orangettes may contain minute traces of palm oil from the ingredients used by its suppliers.

• Does Leonidas use sustainably sourced cocoa?

  Yes. Leonidas is committed to sustainable cocoa and works with programmes such as Cocoa Horizons to support more responsible cocoa production, with respect for producers and the environment.

• How can you get the most out of a Leonidas chocolate?

  Chocolate can awaken all your senses: sight, touch, hearing, taste and smell. Every chocolate should be smooth and glossy, with an intense brown colour. The taste of sugar should not be too prominent. A well-crafted chocolate should crack when you bite into it. If a chocolate begins to melt in your hand before you have even put it in your mouth, it means it contains a generous amount of cocoa butter — a very positive sign. As the chocolate melts in your mouth, it should feel smooth, without any grainy or foreign texture. Two or three gentle chews will help reveal its secondary aromas. Finally, press the chocolate against your palate to release all of its flavours. Above all, take your time to truly enjoy the experience. We took our time making it…

• Does Leonidas offer chocolates suitable for food allergies?

  Some Leonidas products contain allergens such as milk, gluten, soya or nuts. The brand recommends that people with allergies consult the product information or contact customer service directly for tailored advice.

• How long can Leonidas pralines be kept?

  The shelf life varies depending on the product. For ballotins of fresh pralines, Leonidas generally recommends consuming them within a month in order to fully enjoy the quality and freshness of the chocolates.

• How should I best store Leonidas chocolates?

  To fully enjoy Leonidas chocolates containing alcohol or buttercream, we recommend storing them in a cool room and eating them chilled, straight from the fridge. Dark chocolates and pralines filled with ganache, cream, liqueur cream or marzipan, as well as our truffles, are ideally stored at a temperature between 15 and 18°C.

  It is also recommended not to store chocolates, or chocolate in general, near foods or other substances with a strong smell, as chocolate absorbs odours very easily.

• Are Leonidas chocolates halal or kosher?

  Leonidas does not currently have official halal certification. However, some products are certified kosher by specialised organisations. Detailed lists are available from the brand on request.