As a passionate baker and dessert lover, I can tell you that how a dish looks is just as crucial as how it tastes—especially when you want to impress your guests with something truly special. One of my go-to tools for that perfect finishing touch? Chocolate cups! These delightful, ready-to-fill edible shells bring a touch of elegance and ease to any dessert table. But I often get asked: where to buy empty chocolate cups online?, especially if you need them in bulk?

In this post, I’m excited to share everything I’ve picked up from my own experiences, supplier research, and years of collaborating with baking pros. Whether you’re a home baker, running a catering business, or gearing up for a big event, I’ve got some reliable sources to help you out.

What Are Chocolate Cups?

Chocolate cups are those charming little pre-molded vessels made from dark, milk, or white chocolate. They’re perfect for filling with mousse, whipped cream, ganache, fruit, custard, or even liqueur-based treats, making serving a breeze while giving your desserts a polished look.

Some chocolate cups come with decorative fluted edges, while others sport a sleek, modern design. I particularly enjoy using them for weddings, birthdays, and festive celebrations—any occasion where you want your desserts to truly shine.

Where to Buy Empty Chocolate Cups?

There’s no shortage of online retailers offering chocolate cups, from specialty gourmet shops to wholesale restaurant suppliers. After trying out quite a few myself, here’s a handpicked list of 15+ trustworthy sources:

• Baker’s Authority
  Perfect for bulk purchases. They have a fantastic selection for professional kitchens and bakeries.
• iFi Gourmet
  Renowned for their upscale dessert components. Their chocolate vessels are both elegant and chef-approved.
• Gourmet Wholesaler
  Offers wholesale pricing on chocolate cups and other essential baking supplies..
• Amazon
  Ideal for smaller batches. They have a great variety with quick delivery, perfect for casual bakers.
• Walmart
  Budget-friendly and convenient, with options available both online and in-store.
• Papa Gino Foods
  They specialize in gourmet dessert shells, including some exquisite imported chocolate cups that are perfect for upscale events.
• Vantage House
  This UK-based supplier is known for its premium chocolate decorations and cups, catering specifically to professionals in the industry.
• Callebaut
  A renowned Belgian chocolate brand that offers stunning, high-quality shells that are sure to impress.
• WebstaurantStore
  A go-to for caterers and bakeries, they provide competitive prices on a wide range of products.
• Chef Rubber
  Famous for their creative shapes and designs, these chocolate cups are ideal for themed events and high-end presentations.
• Olivenation
  They have a great selection of cup sizes, perfect for both home bakers and professionals.
• Sur La Table
  You can occasionally find chocolate cups here, especially during the holiday season.
• Instacart (partnered with local stores)
  A convenient option for same-day local delivery from stores like Safeway or Whole Foods.
• Global Gourmet
  They cater specifically to banquet halls, hotels, and upscale caterers, ensuring you have what you need for larger events.
• Pastry Depot
  They stock a variety of chocolate shells, mousse cups, and other dessert ingredients.
• Pastry Chef Central
  A treasure trove for both baking professionals and hobbyists, offering a wide range of supplies.
• NY Cake
  Known for their reliable quality, they also have great tools and accessories for all your baking needs.

Before making a purchase, it’s always a good idea to check the product details—like size, type of chocolate (whether it’s couverture or compound), and storage guidelines.

Are the Chocolate Cups Pre-Sweetened?

Absolutely! Most chocolate cups are made from the same chocolate you’d find in candy bars, so they come sweetened. The sweetness level can vary: milk chocolate is generally sweeter, while dark chocolate has a richer, slightly bitter taste.

I always recommend checking the product details, especially if you’re looking for something less sweet to pair with rich or sugary fillings.

What Sizes Do the Chocolate Cups Come In?

There’s a surprising variety when it comes to size. From tiny mini chocolate cups perfect for bite-sized desserts, to medium and large chocolate shells that can hold generous fillings like tiramisu or layered trifles.

Chocolate cups are available in various sizes to fit different occasions:

• Mini (1–1.5 inch): Great for samples and events
• Standard (2–2.5 inch): My go-to for personal-sized desserts
• Large (3+ inch): Ideal for plated desserts or dramatic presentations

Having different size options is key when planning for events or making a dessert tray with variety.

Can the Chocolate Cups Be Used for Both Cold and Hot Fillings?

Typically, chocolate cups are designed for cold or room-temperature fillings like mousse, whipped toppings, or custard. Some sturdier options can handle slightly warm fillings, such as ganache, but be careful—if the filling is too hot, it might melt the chocolate. It’s best to let warm fillings cool down a bit before you fill the cups.

How Do I Store the Chocolate Cups Before Use?

To keep your chocolate cups in great shape, store them in a cool, dry spot, away from direct sunlight and humidity. The sweet spot for temperature is between 60°F and 70°F. 

If you put them in the fridge, be aware that condensation or blooming (those white streaks on the surface) can occur, which affects how they look more than how they taste. If you refrigerate them, let them come back to room temperature gradually.

Are There Any Allergens in the Chocolate Cups?

Most chocolate cups have common allergens like milk and soy lecithin, and they might be made in facilities that also process nuts or gluten. It’s always a good idea to read the labels closely, especially if you’re baking for someone with dietary restrictions.

What’s the Shelf Life of Chocolate Cups?

Chocolate cups generally last anywhere from 6 to 12 months, depending on the ingredients and brand. Real couverture chocolate might not last as long as compound chocolate, so it’s wise to check the expiration dates.

I prefer to buy my cups a few weeks ahead of an event, giving me plenty of time to plan and prepare without feeling rushed. If you store them properly, they’ll stay fresh for months.

Can Baker’s Authority Supply Unbaked Pastries in Bulk?

Absolutely, and that’s a fantastic perk! Baker’s Authority doesn’t just offer chocolate cups—they also have unbaked pastries like croissant dough, puff pastry, and more. 

For professional bakers or anyone catering large events, it’s super convenient to get multiple essentials from one place, and it often saves on shipping costs.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can chocolate cups be frozen?

I don’t recommend freezing them. Freezing can affect the texture and lead to cracking or discoloration. If you must, wrap them tightly and thaw them slowly in a cool, dry place.

2. Do they come in fun shapes or designs?

Absolutely! I’ve seen heart-shaped, tulip-style, and even flower-petal cups. These are great for themed events and special occasions.

3. Can I make chocolate cups at home instead?

Yes, but it takes time, practice, and tools like molds and tempered chocolate. If you’re short on time or need consistent results, buying them is often easier and more reliable.

Conclusion

If you’ve been on the hunt for empty chocolate cups, the best place to buy them really depends on what you’re looking for—be it quantity, quality, or just plain convenience. You’ve got everything from professional suppliers like Baker’s Authority and Callebaut to more everyday options available on Amazon or Walmart. There’s definitely something for everyone out there.

I’ve personally tried a bunch of these, and I can tell you that once you find your favorite supplier, it’s a total game changer. So go ahead—get creative, have a blast, and let those chocolate cups elevate your desserts to a whole new level!