Our Story
The Luikens Family jumped into the chocolate business after moving to California from Iowa in 1984. Marilyn and Al perfected the recipes and ran production while the girls helped in between school and swim practice. Annabelle took over the family business in 2003, focusing on the same quality her parents achieved. In 2006, Annabelle expanded into retail while continuing the wholesale business. The expansion also included a beautiful Lounge where visitors can enjoy a glass of local wine along with their delectable chocolates. Our extensive line of gourmet chocolates is created exclusively in our El Dorado kitchen. Annabelle spends most of her time in the kitchen, creating the caramels, toffee, brittles, fudge, honeycomb and other delicacies for chocolate coating. Annabelle’s Mom, Marilyn, creates and personally dips all the truffles by hand. Leah and Jasmine, the “Oompa Loompas”, patiently hand temper chocolate so the goodies you bite into are beautiful and melt in your mouth. We all look forward to sharing our quality chocolates with you!
What our customers are saying…
“I was on a long drive with my partner on Valentine’s day. We wandered through the hill country, not knowing where we were or where we where going. We came into a small town and there was Annabelle’s. They welcomed us in and did a wonderful presentation of chocolates and wine. The atmosphere is elegant and comfortable. We had a fabulous time. It was a highlight of the trip and we will always go there for chocolates and cozy romance. My favorite is the chocolate covered candied orange slices!” -a. cenavarre
“Not only is the chocolate at Annabelle’s the best anywhere, ever, but the warm, comfortable lounge atmosphere, the wonderful local wines and the neighborly service are unique. It’s my favorite place for a relaxing, DELICIOUS, after work day meet with girl friends.” -K. Holvick
“Great owner and excellent product with a warm and friendly atmosphere. My favorite is the dark chocolate dipped oreo cookies. They are dreamy. Plus, Annabelle’s offers a large selection of sugar-free items for my diabetic family members.” -Vahana
“This is the finest chocolate i’ve ever tasted.” -J. Costello
“Yummy! Yummy! W.O.W I loved the chocolate covered cherries and the Rocky Road. One easy phone call and I had it sent to my wife. Great gift idea for something different.” -M. Anderson
“the best chocolate, and the nicest people!” -beziev
“They have the best handmade chocolates that I have had in Ca. Plus they are close to where I live and are always willing to help the community. I am proud that they are here .” -S.L.A.
“Excellently hand crafted products, gracious and friendly staff, great social events, community support” -DetalesRfun
“They have the best chocolate and a great atmosphere. Annabelle is really nice too.” -denalinea
“They have the best handmade truffles we have ever tasted, and they are beautiful as well.” -6649
“It’s a cool place to visit with a very comfortable lounge with large screen TVs. The chocolates are to die for. I love trying all of the local wines too. You need to get out of the rain, snow or heat and head for Annabelle’s to have fun time or relax.” -L. Luikens
“Fantastic Chocolates. So much better than any I’ve tasted in Sacramento or Folsom. Delicious.” -kofrost
“BEST chocolate I’ve ever had! And being a chocolate lover I eat almost any chocolate I can find. Annabelle’s is by far the best.” -M.W.K.
“Annabelle’s Chocolate Lounge is one of my favorite places to visit! The chocolate is amazing and the warm smiles and friendly staff make it well worth the trip.” -L.J.P.
“A must visit!!! you will think you died & went to heaven! the
chocolate is THAT good! Have some chocolate & wine! OH MY!” -SandidgeJ