Merckens vs. Alpine Chocolate — Which Melting Discs Are Best? | Mr. Bulky’s Foods
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What Is Merckens Chocolate?
Merckens is a beloved American chocolate brand and a subsidiary of Cargill, which also owns classic chocolate makers like Peter’s (est. 1875) and Wilbur (est. 1865).
Founded in 1921, Merckens has become a staple for home bakers and candy makers across the country. They’re best known for their melting wafers (or “discs”), available in a wide range of colors and flavors.
Here at Mr. Bulky’s Foods, we often hear customers say:
“My mother always used Merckens, so I just kept the tradition alive.”
For many families, Merckens chocolate is more than an ingredient — it’s a tradition. Over the years, Merckens has refined its milk chocolate melting discs, improving texture and meltability while keeping that signature taste.
🍫 What Makes Merckens Different?
Technically speaking, Merckens melting discs aren’t “real” chocolate — they’re a chocolate compound.
Instead of cocoa butter, compound chocolate uses vegetable oil, which makes it melt smoothly and easily. This is why Merckens is a go-to for candy makers who don’t want to deal with tempering, a delicate process required for true chocolate.
To melt Merckens discs, simply place them in a microwave-safe bowl, heat in 30-second intervals, and stir until smooth.
No thermometers, no fancy tools — just simple, reliable chocolate for dipping, coating, and molding.
🍫 What Is Alpine Chocolate?
Alpine is another popular brand of compound chocolate produced by Clasen Quality Chocolate (CQC) — pronounced Claw-sen.
The company was founded in 1959 by two German brothers in Wisconsin. What began as a small, family-run operation has grown into one of North America’s leading chocolate and confectionery suppliers.
🍫 What Makes Alpine Different?
Like Merckens, Alpine melting discs are compound chocolate, meaning no tempering is required — just melt and use.
Where Alpine stands out is in flavor. Many candy makers (and a few of us here at Mr. Bulky’s Foods) say Alpine has a sweeter, creamier taste than other melting chocolates.
Your experience may vary, but if you like a rich, sweet profile, Alpine might be your new favorite!
🍭 Merckens vs. Alpine: Which One Is Better?
Now that you know the key differences, which chocolate melting disc is better — Merckens or Alpine?
The truth is: both are excellent choices. It all comes down to personal preference.
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💖 Choose Merckens if you love its smooth texture and classic, nostalgic flavor.
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🍯 Choose Alpine if you prefer a slightly sweeter, creamier taste.
At the end of the day, what matters most isn’t the brand — it’s the joy of making and sharing candy with friends and family. Whether you’re dipping pretzels, molding chocolate, or creating homemade truffles, both Merckens and Alpine deliver sweet success. 🍬
🛍️ Where to Find Merckens & Alpine Chocolate
You can find both Merckens and Alpine chocolate melting discs right here at Mr. Bulky's Foods!
Visit our Candy Making Supplies section for all your chocolate and decorating needs.