Chef Rick is Excited For the Annual Festival of Chefs

Chef Rick is excited to proudly participate in the annual Festival of Chefs for Kidworks at the Newport Beach Country Club. He always has a table and booth alongside many other local chefs. Chef Rick enjoys seeing friends and colleagues at this wonderful event supporting young adults on their path to college and meaningful careers. If you want to support this wonderful event, tickets are available on the KidWorks website.

Chef Rick is passionate about staying involved with and building his community.  Although he volunteers with many organizations his involvement with Kidsworks is near and dear to his heart. Learn more about Chef Rick and his involvement with the Annual Festival of Chefs and KidWorks as an organization, here in our blog post

National Chocolate Covered Caramel Day As Seen on KTLA’s “Off the Clock”

Alright, welcome back. Today is a sweet day. It is actually National Chocolate Covered Caramel Day. One of our favorites, one of mine. And of course, we are going to celebrate, all thanks to a local company. It is called Santa Ana Sweets. I have known about Chef Rick and Santa Ana Sweets for a good 5 years now and it has been great to watch his arc as he is really now very popular in this game. They dropped off some of their smooth golden caramels. They are great, they are tasty treats. 

I was joking with Sam earlier, because I gave some of these to Sam 3 years ago and he still talks about them. What makes them extra special? It is done the old-school way. Chef Rick honestly dips every single one of these himself. They are hand-dipped in dark chocolate, sprinkled with sea salt and they are fantastic. (Yeah they are!) (Yeah!). And let me tell you, here is one thing that I really appreciate: When you go on to the ingredients of something and you look, the less ingredients, generally, the better. There are like 6 ingredients here. I didn’t bring my glass thing, you’ll have to read it. But, honestly, there are no preservatives.

Sour cream, sugar, syrup with vanilla, cream, dark chocolate and sea salt.

And sea salt! Very basic.

Anyway, they have these 3 packs, they have 6 packs. Here is the great thing about Chef Rick, because he started here, he started in Orange County, Santa Ana Sweets and he has done a lot of boutiques. Now he is in the John Wayne Airport. He is ready to cut a deal. He is going to be in all major airports across the country. He is going to be the signature chocolate of there. Renaissance Hotels just signed a deal with him, they are going to be giving these as a part of their luxury services. 

These are fine chocolates. You can also find them at Pelican Hill Resorts, Moon Goat Cafe, Blossom Cafe, and even Santa Monica Sea Food in Costa Mesa. [See where you can find Santa Ana Sweets here] So a lot of Orange County but now getting into LA county. This is really one of those where if you want something that is great, unique, and again no preservatives, you’re not going to have all of these things that we find in boxed candies. So you are really going to enjoy the freshness, and the sweetness of it. 

How did you like it Kara? (Good)

They are really good

Here is the cool thing, because you can order online, “Off the Clock” has a special deal. We love it when our vendors, especially our local vendors, offer our viewers a sweet deal.

Here is it, just for our “Off the Clock” viewers, just head to their website, we mentioned it, santaanasweets.com you can get 20% off your order by just putting in the code “offtheclock.” 

So just fill out your card, before you check out make sure you use the code “offtheclock” to nab this tasty deal here. And yes, Chef Rick. Like I said, I have met him, it’s Rick Boxeth. I met him at a charity event probably 5-6 years ago and I just fell in love with his personality. He came from a classic dessert, I don’t even know the name, but it is someone very famous in France, so he has a European background in making sweets and you can tell just from that. But really happy that the arc of his company is really taking off. If you are in the John Wayne Airport you can pick them up there. You’re going to see them at LAX. You are going to see them at all major airports.

By the way, I am on their website right now and they say that they support, a lot of local non-profits. So that is pretty cool too

He is a very philanthropic person who does a lot, and gives back. Again, can’t say enough about this make-a-wish part of the symphony. But, I wanted to bring these chocolates to you guys to try out. They are delicious. And we will have to sneak Sam some. 

Yeah, we will get some to him. Remember “offtheclock” for that code too. 

The Inspiration Behind the Golden Caramels

I am Chef Rick and my mission for the perfect caramel took me across the world, to the heart of France. The intense flavor, texture, and smoothness was unmatched here in the US. Once I was back home in Santa Ana I got to work, inspired by my French experience. I was determined to create a caramel that’s kind to your teeth and a pleasure to your taste buds. After several attempts, I created a delicious, smooth, and golden caramel that melts in your mouth. My French-inspired creamy caramels are hand-dipped in dark chocolate and adorned in sea salt

Santa Ana Sweets, a trip to France in every bite!

The Sweet Artistry of Handcrafted Gourmet Caramels

At Santa Ana Sweets, we take immense pride in offering our customers the finest handcrafted caramels that money can buy. Our commitment to delivering unparalleled quality is evident in every aspect of our production process. Unlike mass-produced candies churned out by machines, our caramels are a labor of love, meticulously crafted by our esteemed Chef Rick. From hand-dipping to hand-salting and hand-cutting, each step of the process is infused with Chef Rick’s passion for creating the best gourmet caramels available online.

The Art of Handcrafting Caramels

Chef Rick’s journey as a confectioner began with a vision to bring back the lost art of making caramels by hand. His deep appreciation for traditional candy-making techniques and natural ingredients led him to establish Santa Ana Sweets. From the outset, he was determined to offer a truly artisanal experience to caramel enthusiasts.

Handcrafted Gourmet Caramels: A Labor of Love

When we say our caramels are “handcrafted,” we mean it in every sense of the word. From the moment the fresh ingredients arrive in our kitchen, Chef Rick oversees each and every step of the process. The caramels are cooked in small batches over an open flame, carefully stirred to achieve the perfect consistency. This hands-on approach allows Chef Rick to precisely control the caramelization process, resulting in a rich and buttery flavor that sets our caramels apart.

Precision Hand-Cutting

Once the caramels are fully set, Chef Rick proceeds to hand-cut each piece with precision and care. This step not only ensures that every caramel is consistent in size and shape but also adds a personal touch to the final product. You can feel the passion and dedication infused into each caramel as you indulge in its delightful goodness.



Hand Dipping with Care

After the caramels have been cut with expert precision, Chef Rick starts the hand-dipping process. Each individual caramel is dipped into a bath of rich, velvety chocolate. The slow and delicate nature of hand-dipping ensures that every piece is coated evenly, creating a decadent and indulgent experience with each bite.



The Personal Touch: Hand Salting

The artistry of our handcrafted caramels continues with the finishing touch – hand-salting. Using just the right amount of premium sea salt, Chef Rick delicately sprinkles each caramel. The marriage of sweet and savory flavors creates a taste sensation that leaves a lasting impression on your taste buds.

Craftsmanship Unleashed: The Result

The result of Chef Rick’s commitment to craftsmanship is a collection of caramels that redefine gourmet excellence. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and love. Our handcrafted caramels have garnered praise from customers far and wide, establishing Santa Ana Sweets as a trusted name for those seeking the best caramels online.

Go Ahead, Indulge a Little

At Santa Ana Sweets, we believe that true indulgence lies in the small details. That’s why every step of our caramel-making process, from hand-cutting, and hand-dipping to the final hand-salting, is performed with utmost care and dedication by our esteemed Chef Rick. By eschewing machines in favor of time-honored techniques, we bring you handcrafted caramels that are unparalleled in flavor and quality. Whether you’re treating yourself or seeking the perfect gift, our gourmet caramels are sure to delight your senses and leave you craving for more. Experience the magic of true craftsmanship with Santa Ana Sweets today. Indulge in the finest handcrafted caramels that will truly redefine your sweet expectations.

KidsWorks Festival of Chefs Honors Chef Rick

KidsWorks Festival of Chefs: Celebrating Honorary Chef Rick Boxeth

Festival of Chefs, July 16th, 2023, 5:00pm-9:00pm, Newport Beach Country Club

Food has a way of bringing people together, sparking joy, and creating unforgettable memories. In the vibrant city of Santa Ana, California, the KidsWorks Festival of Chefs is an annual celebration that showcases culinary talent while supporting a noble cause. This year, we are thrilled to announce the participation of esteemed honorary chef, Rick Boxeth, the culinary genius behind Santa Ana Sweets. Get ready to embark on a flavorful journey filled with delectable treats, culinary expertise, and heartfelt community spirit.

The KidsWorks Festival of Chefs: A Celebration of OC Culinary Excellence

The KidsWorks Festival of Chefs is an extraordinary event that not only indulges the taste buds but also aims to make a positive impact on the community. This festival brings together OC chefs, local food vendors, and food enthusiasts to celebrate the culinary arts while raising funds for KidsWorks, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering underserved youth through educational programs.

Honorary Chef, Rick Boxeth

Rick Boxeth, the esteemed honorary chef of this year’s Festival of Chefs, is a culinary maestro known for his exquisite creations and passion for dessert. As the mastermind behind Santa Ana Sweets, an acclaimed business in the heart of the city, Rick has been delighting locals with his unique salted chocolate covered caramels for years.

With a background in pastry arts from some of the world’s finest culinary schools, Rick has honed his skills to perfection. His innovative flavor combinations, attention to detail, and commitment to using high-quality ingredients have earned him a devoted following. Rick’s chocolate covered salted caramels not only satisfy the sweet tooth but also leave a lasting impression on those lucky enough to taste them. It is no wonder that Chef Rick has a reputation for having the best chocolate covered caramels around.

What to Expect at the Festival

In addition to the culinary delights, the KidsWorks Festival of Chefs offers a vibrant and festive atmosphere. Visitors can explore a variety of food stalls, interact with local chefs, and participate in engaging culinary discussions. The event provides an opportunity for children and adults alike to learn about different cuisines, discover new flavors, and gain insights from seasoned professionals like Rick Boxeth.

Community Spirit and Impact

Beyond the delectable dishes and culinary excitement, the Festival of Chefs holds a deeper purpose. The event serves as a platform for raising awareness and funds for KidsWorks. This inspiring organization works tirelessly to provide educational programs, mentorship, and career guidance to underserved youth in the Santa Ana community. By supporting the Festival of Chefs, attendees contribute to empowering young minds and shaping a brighter future.

Stop By

The KidsWorks Festival of Chefs in Santa Ana is a celebration of culinary artistry, community spirit, and making a positive impact on young lives. The inclusion of honorary chef Rick Boxeth from Santa Ana Sweets adds an extra layer of excitement and anticipation to this already extraordinary event. As we come together to indulge in delectable treats, explore new flavors, and support a worthy cause, let us remember the power of food to create connections, inspire dreams, and transform lives.

This year the Festival of Chefs is taking place on July 16th from 5pm-9pm at the Newport Beach Country Club. Click here if you want to learn more about the Festival of Chefs or how you can get involved with the KidWorks organization. Alternatively, if this article got your mouth watering you can check out Chef Rick’s delicious creations here

The Perfect Graduation Gift Box: Celebrate Sweet Success with Santa Ana Sweets’ Chocolate-Covered Salted Caramels

As graduation season approaches, it’s time to start thinking about the perfect gifts to congratulate your loved ones on their remarkable achievements. If you’re searching for a delightful and memorable present, look no further than Santa Ana Sweets for the perfect graduation gift, featuring their exquisite chocolate-covered salted caramels. These delectable treats combine the rich flavors of smooth chocolate, gooey caramel, and a hint of savory salt to create a truly indulgent experience. Let’s dive into the details of this enticing graduation gift box and explore why it is the ideal choice for this special occasion.

The Perfect Graduation Gift Box:

Santa Ana Sweets is renowned for its commitment to crafting premium confections that delight the senses. With a rich history of creating handcrafted treats, their expertise shines through in every bite. The stars of their collection are the decadent chocolate covered salted caramels – a harmonious blend of smooth chocolate, luscious caramel, and a touch of sea salt. Each caramel is individually hand-dipped to ensure the perfect balance of flavors.

Unisex Appeal

The Graduation Gift Box from Santa Ana Sweets caters to both men and women, making it a versatile option for any graduate. Whether you’re looking for a graduation gift box for her or graduation gift boxes for him, this selection is sure to impress. The blend of sweet and salty flavors in the chocolate-covered salted caramels appeals to a wide range of palates, making it a universally adored treat.

A Unique and Memorable Gift

When it comes to selecting a graduation gift, it’s important to choose something that stands out and creates lasting memories. Santa Ana Sweets’ Graduation Gift Box accomplishes just that. The combination of high-quality chocolate and luscious caramel, elevated with a touch of salt, creates a distinct and unforgettable flavor profile. Your gift will be cherished and remembered long after the graduation festivities.

Convenient and Hassle-Free

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Versatile Gift Box Ideas

While the chocolate-covered salted caramels are the star of the show, Santa Ana Sweets’ Graduation Gift Box offers additional flexibility for customization. You can add a personalized note or include other goodies to make the gift even more special. Consider pairing the caramel treats with a bottle of champagne or a scented candle to create a truly indulgent and celebratory experience.

Stand out from the Crowd

In a sea of predictable and ordinary graduation gifts, Santa Ana Sweets’ Graduation Gift Box offers a unique and standout choice. This carefully crafted gift demonstrates your thoughtfulness and appreciation for the graduate’s accomplishments, making it a memorable gesture. Your recipient will be thrilled to receive such a delectable and distinctive present.

Conclusion

As graduation season arrives, it’s time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of your loved ones. Santa Ana Sweets’ Graduation Gift Box, featuring their mouthwatering chocolate-covered salted caramels, provides the perfect way to honor and congratulate the graduates in your life. With its unisex appeal, unique flavors, and hassle-free ordering process, this gift box ensures a memorable and indulgent experience. Stand out from the crowd and make their graduation truly sweet with Santa Ana Sweets.

Order your Graduation Gift Box today and let Santa Ana Sweets help you celebrate their sweet success!

5 Gift Ideas for Easter That Everyone Will Love

Easter is a time of celebration and joy, and what better way to celebrate than by giving gifts to your loved ones? If you’re looking for a special Easter gift to give to someone you care about, chocolate covered caramels are a delicious choice.These sweet treats are sure to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth and make for a great addition to any Easter basket. In this article, we’ll explore why chocolate covered caramels make such great Easter gifts, and we’ll also suggest some other gift ideas that complement these tasty treats.

Why Choose Chocolate Covered Caramels for Easter?

Chocolate and caramel are two flavors that are synonymous with Easter. Chocolate eggs and bunnies are a common sight during the holiday season, and caramel candies are a popular treat to enjoy during family gatherings and other festive occasions. When you combine these two classic flavors, you get a delectable treat that’s perfect for Easter.

Of course, we love the Santa Ana Sweets classic, sea salt chocolate-covered caramels. These gourmet chocolate covered salted caramels are the perfect treat for anyone who loves the combination of sweet and salty. The rich, creamy caramel pairs perfectly with the smooth chocolate coating, creating a decadent treat that is sure to please. At Santa Ana Sweets we use high-quality chocolate and soft, buttery caramel for the best taste. And the sea salt adds that little extra flavor and texture to create a delicious balance between the sweetness of the caramel and the bitterness of the chocolate, making for a truly irresistible treat.

Other Easter Gift Ideas

If you’re looking for other Easter gift ideas to complement your chocolate covered caramels, here are a few suggestions:

1. Easter Basket

A classic Easter basket is always a fun and festive gift. You can fill it with goodies like chocolate eggs, jelly beans, and of course, chocolate covered caramels.

2. Flowers

Spring is in the air, and flowers are a great way to celebrate the season. Consider gifting a bouquet of fresh flowers or a potted plant that your loved one can enjoy all season long.

3. Easter Egg Decorating Kit

Decorating Easter eggs is a fun tradition that many families enjoy. Give your loved one an Easter egg decorating kit, complete with dye, stickers, and other fun decorations.

4. Easter-themed Books or Movies

If your loved one enjoys reading or watching movies, consider gifting a book or movie with an Easter theme. From children’s books to classic films like “It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown,” there are plenty of options to choose from.

In conclusion, chocolate covered caramels are a delicious Easter gift that your loved one is sure to appreciate. They’re a versatile gift that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings. If you’re looking for other Easter gift ideas, consider a classic Easter basket, flowers, an Easter egg decorating kit, or an Easter-themed book or movie. Whatever you choose, your loved one is sure to feel appreciated and loved this Easter season.