DePaula Confections,LLC -- Handmade Artisan Chocolates and Confections

DePaula Confections is a locally owned and operated small business here in Portland, Oregon. We create and produce superior European-style filled chocolates, with novel designs and flavors evoking classic elegance with a contemporary, playful flair.

We believe that chocolates from DePaula Confections are exceptional, even in the refined local market, due to their outstanding appearance, remarkable flavor balance, melding of artful originality and classic refinement, as well as the use of fresh, organic ingredients. We endeavor to create the most extraordinary chocolate experience possible. As such, we wish to target the increasing ranks of discriminating consumers who prefer five-star culinary products.

Chef and proprietor John DePaula grew up near New Orleans, Louisiana. His mother Connie, herself a fabulous cook, introduced him to the vibrant culinary traditions of French, Creole, and Italian food prevalent in his community. As a result, he developed a refined palate and a finely-honed skill for artfully balancing complex flavors from diverse sources.

Several years ago on a trip to Europe, John became captivated by Belgian chocolates, a style then little known in the US. Since then, he has perfected the art of fine, hand-made artisan chocolates, using his rich culinary experience to re-create classic flavors and invent new ones.

Chef DePaula perfectly balances the naturally full flavors of the best and freshest ingredients available. He understands that chocolate is the most important ingredient, so he never over-sweetens, nor does he use preservatives or artificial flavors. Consistent with his training in Classic French Pastry at the École Supérieure de Cuisine Française (Ferrandi) in Paris, Chef DePaula retains 100% control over production and quality.

His meticulously tested original recipes include Chipotle Chile Pepper, a piquant yet smooth lingual crescendo; Lavender-Vanilla, a floral delight cached in white chocolate; and Bananas Foster, the heady scent of fresh ripe bananas together with nuts reminiscent of Southern pecan-pie. Other inspired recipes make the best use of fresh Pacific Northwest produce like Oregon hazelnuts, and seasonal berries and fruits, and are readily enjoyed with your favorite Oregon wine!

Your partners at DePaula Confections,

John DePaula and Bob Wildin