- Attraction: Cocoa Blue Chocolates
- Location: 117 E Main St, Rochester, IL 62563
- Industry: Chocolatier
- Website: http://www.cocoabluechocolates.com/
Dreams really do come true at this extraordinary chocolate haven that transformed a former lawyer into Central Illinois’ most celebrated chocolatier.
Joshua Becker’s journey from courtroom to chocolate shop began during his high school exchange year in the Netherlands, where Dutch chocolate artistry captivated him completely. After earning his law degree and building a successful practice, Joshua couldn’t shake his chocolate dreams.
With his family’s unwavering support, he left law behind to study at Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in St. Louis, earning his certificate in Pâtisserie and Baking in 2012.
Since opening on December 5, 2013, Cocoa Blue Chocolates has become the crown jewel of Rochester’s Main Street.
Joshua imports authentic Dutch chocolate ingredients to create handcrafted confections that rival the finest European chocolatiers, bringing world-class artistry to small-town Illinois.
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Hand-Crafted Truffles: Joshua regularly creates featured truffles with unique flavors that push creative boundaries, produced in small batches that keep chocolate enthusiasts coming back for more. These truffles consistently earn praise as “simply the best chocolate in central Illinois”, with rich, complex flavors that melt beautifully on your tongue.
The Famous Turtles: What makes Cocoa Blue’s turtles absolutely perfect? Joshua’s secret weapon: candied pecans that he prepares himself, creating an irresistible combination of textures and flavors. These aren’t your ordinary turtles – they’re carefully crafted confections that balance sweet caramel, crunchy pecans, and smooth chocolate in perfect harmony.
Seasonal Holiday Creations: Don’t miss the Christmas gingerbread men dipped in dark chocolate – they’re absolutely divine.
From sweet Easter bunnies to Halloween skulls, Joshua creates special molded chocolates for every holiday using exquisite white, milk, and dark chocolate. Even the tiny chocolate frogs make lasting impressions – kids constantly request them.
Artisan Chocolate Bars: The solid chocolate bars are designed to break into equal pieces for sharing, though the peanut butter bars are so irresistible that Joshua recommends getting one for everyone instead of attempting to share. These bars showcase the pure quality of Joshua’s chocolate-making skills.
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Discover MoreCustom Clusters and Bark: Available in white, milk, or dark chocolate varieties, these treats offer endless possibilities. You can even suggest your favorite combination – Joshua loves discussing chocolate and will gladly create custom flavors.
Beverages & Ice Cream
Exceptional Hot Chocolate: What sets their chocolate drinks apart is authenticity – the hot chocolate is made using Joshua’s own cocoa powder, while mocha drinks feature melted chocolate straight from the shop. Visitors consistently rave about getting a mocha alongside their chocolate purchases.
Seasonal Ice Cream: Between Memorial Day and Labor Day, they feature premium ice cream from Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream Company, creating the perfect summer complement to their year-round chocolate offerings.
Flavored Syrups: Choose from vanilla, hazelnut, and caramel syrups, all available in sugar-free versions for those watching their sugar intake.
Atmosphere & Experience
Authentic Chocolate Shop Charm: The shop maintains a clean, welcoming environment that lets the chocolates take center stage.
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Educational Experience: Joshua imports cocoa beans and creates everything from scratch, and visitors can often watch the chocolate-making process firsthand. The owner frequently works in the shop and is described as “super pleasant,” always willing to share his chocolate expertise.
Visual Appeal: Every handcrafted piece showcases Joshua’s dedication to creating chocolates that are both delicious and visually stunning. The display cases are works of art themselves, filled with perfectly crafted confections that look almost too beautiful to eat.
Other Considerations
Premium Pricing: While some visitors note the chocolates are “pretty pricey,” the consensus is that the exceptional quality justifies the cost. You’re paying for artisan craftsmanship, imported ingredients, and small-batch production that simply can’t be replicated in mass-produced chocolates.
Family-Friendly: Children love the chocolate frogs and holiday-themed creations, making this a perfect stop for families. The shop welcomes visitors of all ages who appreciate quality confections.
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Discover MoreAllergy Considerations: All products are made using equipment that processes peanuts and tree nuts, but Joshua takes extra care to limit cross-contamination since his own youngest child has these allergies. Ingredients are always available upon request, and the staff is sensitive to customers’ allergy concerns.
Custom Gift Options: Since products are made without preservatives, nothing is pre-packaged. Instead, they create custom gifts ranging from boxes of four truffles to elaborate themed gift baskets, often assembled while you wait.
Perfect for Special Events: They specialize in creating memorable centerpieces and treats for bridal showers, baby showers, rehearsal dinners, and weddings.
Hours of Operation: Open Tuesday through Friday 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM, and Sunday 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM. Closed Mondays.
Cocoa Blue Chocolates
📍 117 E Main St, Rochester, IL 62563
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