In the rich and evolving world of artisan chocolate, social media has emerged as a pivotal platform for discovery and connection. Long gone are the times when chocolate enthusiasts relied solely on word-of-mouth or serendipitous discoveries to learn about the latest bean-to-bar brands, innovative flavors, and their delectable qualities.

Social media, particularly Instagram, has revolutionized this landscape. It's not just a window into the latest trends; it's a gateway to the world of new makers and their creative offerings. At Oodaalolly, we've observed a particularly intriguing phenomenon: the rise of female chocolate aficionados on Instagram. These women are not only passionate about chocolate but also play a crucial role in shaping the industry's future.

The bean-to-bar movement has witnessed explosive growth over the past decade. In the United States alone, the number of small, independent chocolate producers has soared from about five to over 250. This boom reflects a growing appreciation for quality, craft, and sustainability in chocolate production – values that many of these Instagram influencers champion and embody.

The influence of these female chocoholics and fine food enthusiasts on Instagram has been undeniable. They've helped elevate the bean-to-bar industry, bringing it to a broader audience and highlighting the art behind chocolate making.

However, with the abundance of quality content, pinpointing the best accounts to follow can be daunting. But fear not – we're here to guide you. We've carefully curated a list of our top 7 female chocolate influencers on Instagram. These are the voices we respect and admire, the ones who are redefining the chocolate experience one post at a time.

Let's dive into the world of chocolate through their eyes.

Maricel Presilla: The Culinary Historian and Chocolate Virtuoso

IG Handle: @maricelpresilla7

Maricel Presilla is a name synonymous with culinary expertise and a deep passion for chocolate, she founded the . A renowned chef, historian, and author, Presilla brings a unique and scholarly perspective to the world of chocolate. With her roots in Latin America, she has an intimate understanding of the cocoa bean's journey from the farm to the bar. Her Instagram feed @MaricelPresilla7 is a blend of rich historical insights, personal chocolate-making experiences, and a celebration of Latin American cuisine.

She’s been in hibernation mode lately, but Maricel's posts are not just visually enticing; they are educational journeys worth reviewing. Through her lens, followers gain an appreciation for the traditional methods of chocolate making and the cultural significance of cocoa in various societies. Her accolades, including the prestigious James Beard Awards, speak to her expertise. For enthusiasts eager to delve into the depths of chocolate's history and its artisanal processes, Maricel Presilla's account is an indispensable resource.

Emily Stone: The Pioneering Spirit Behind Uncommon Cacao

Instagram Handles: Personal - @emilyvstone (Private Account), Business - @uncommoncacao

Emily Stone, the founder of Uncommon Cacao — where we source many of our beans — stands as a beacon of innovation and ethical practices in the chocolate industry. While her personal Instagram account @emilyvstone is private, a reflection of her modest and focused demeanor, the story of her impact is vividly told through @uncommoncacao. This account is a window into the world Stone has helped shape - one where transparency, sustainability, and quality in chocolate production are paramount.

Uncommon Cacao is lauded for pioneering the transparent trade model in cacao, connecting smallholder farmers with premium markets and ensuring fair compensation. The account showcases the journey of cacao beans from remote farms to exquisite chocolate bars, highlighting the people, places, and processes involved. It's not just about chocolate; it's about a movement towards a more ethical and sustainable chocolate industry.

For those who are passionate about understanding the broader impact of their chocolate choices and enjoying high-quality, ethically sourced products, following @uncommoncacao is a must. Through this account, Emily Stone's vision and dedication to transforming the cacao supply chain are both inspiring and educational.

Pam Williams: The Educator Shaping Chocolate Minds

Instagram Handle: @ecolechocolat

Pam Williams, the founder of Ecole Chocolat, is a pivotal figure in the chocolate world, known for her dedication to educating aspiring chocolatiers, chocolate makers, and chocolate enthusiasts. Through her Instagram account @ecolechocolat, Pam provides a window into the fascinating world of chocolate education. Her posts offer a mix of engaging learning opportunities, insights into chocolate making, and highlights from her professional chocolate programs.

Ecole Chocolat is not just an institution; it's a hub for chocolate knowledge and expertise. Pam's work in providing comprehensive online courses and resources has been instrumental in nurturing the next generation of chocolate professionals — including Oodaalolly’s own Jeremy Burnich. Her feed is filled with inspiring success stories of her students, updates on the latest chocolate trends, and tips for both beginners and experts.

For those looking to deepen their understanding of chocolate, from its origins to the art of crafting exquisite confections, Pam Williams' @ecolechocolat is an invaluable resource. Her passion for education and chocolate is evident in every post, making her a must-follow for anyone serious about exploring the depths of chocolate knowledge.

Katerina Gallo: The Chocolate Ambassador Bridging Worlds

Instagram Handle: @chocambas

Katerina Gallo, known as The Chocolate Ambassador, is a dynamic presence in the chocolate community. Her Instagram account, @chocambas, is a vibrant tapestry showcasing the global world of chocolate. Katerina's approach is multifaceted: she not only delights in the sensory experience of tasting but also delves into the stories behind the chocolate, connecting makers, growers, and consumers.

Her posts are a blend of chocolate tastings, visits to chocolate factories, interviews with chocolatiers, and insights into cocoa cultivation. What makes Katerina stand out is her ability to communicate the nuances of chocolate in an accessible and engaging way. She acts as a bridge, bringing together diverse aspects of the chocolate world, from its agricultural roots to its artisanal expressions.

Following @chocambas is an enriching experience for anyone interested in the many layers of chocolate culture. Katerina's passion for chocolate is infectious, and her account is a celebration of all things cocoa – a journey through the tastes, textures, and tales of chocolate.

Karla Schade: The Documentarian of Chocolate Delights

Instagram Handle: @openingchocolate

Karla Schade, the face behind @openingchocolate, stands out in the Instagram chocolate community for her exceptionally well-researched and thoughtfully crafted content. Her posts are much more than just chocolate reviews; they are akin to mini-documentaries, rich in detail and depth, showcasing her dedication to the craft of chocolate appreciation.

Karla's approach to chocolate tasting is meticulous and informed. Each video she posts is a journey into the heart of the chocolate she features, exploring its origins, the intricacies of its flavors, and the stories behind its creation. This level of detail reflects not just a deep understanding but an unwavering passion for chocolate.

Her palate is refined and discerning, making her recommendations and reviews invaluable to both casual enthusiasts and serious connoisseurs. At Oodaalolly, we are particularly impressed by the effort and thought Karla puts into each post. Her ability to convey complex chocolate profiles in an accessible and engaging manner is a testament to her skills as both a chocolate expert and a storyteller.

For anyone looking to deepen their knowledge and appreciation of chocolate, following @openingchocolate is a must. Karla Schade's insights and explorations are a treasure trove for the chocolate-loving community.

Estelle Tracy: The Chocolate Savant of Philadelphia

Instagram Handle: @37chocolates

Estelle Tracy, a Philadelphia-based author, journalist, and chocolate sommelier, is a prominent voice in the chocolate community, known for her expansive knowledge and engaging presence. On Instagram, @37chocolates, Estelle offers a delightful glimpse into her world of chocolate discovery and appreciation. Her account is a fusion of informative posts, event announcements, and personal reflections on the chocolate she encounters.

Beyond Instagram, Estelle's influence extends across various platforms. She works behind the scenes at the Well Tempered Facebook group, a thriving community for chocolate professionals and enthusiasts. Additionally, her insightful blog provides a deeper dive into her chocolate experiences and expertise, while her active LinkedIn presence connects her with a broader audience in the professional world.

Estelle is not just a reviewer; she's an educator and connector, hosting numerous talks and chocolate events, both in-person and online. Her ability to articulate the nuances of chocolate tasting, combined with her journalistic flair, makes her content both educational and highly engaging.

At Oodaalolly, we admire Estelle for her commitment to building a vibrant chocolate community and for her contributions to the broader understanding and appreciation of chocolate. Following @37chocolates offers an enriching journey through the multifaceted world of chocolate, guided by Estelle's expert palate and insightful commentary.

Trish ??????: The LA Chocolate Trailblazer

Instagram Handle: @myic2016

Trish, the creative force behind @myic2016 (My Year In Chocolate), has carved a unique niche in the Instagram chocolate community. We don’t know who the mysterious Trish and she has cultivated a sense of mystery around her persona, which only adds to the intrigue of her chocolate discoveries. Based in Los Angeles, she's not your ordinary chocolate blogger; her feed is a captivating showcase of some of the most fascinating and rare chocolate bars from around the world.

The Mysterious Trish — we don’t know what she looks like so we came up with this.

What sets Trish apart is her ability to uncover and share chocolate gems that might otherwise remain hidden. Her posts are a blend of discovery, appreciation, and storytelling, offering her followers an opportunity to explore the diverse and often lesser-known world of artisan chocolate.

In addition to her intriguing chocolate finds, Trish is known for organizing "#TTTT" (Tangential Tasting Twin Tuesday). This innovative concept brings together chocolate Instagrammers globally, encouraging them to post about a shared chocolate theme each Tuesday. It's not just a hashtag; it's a movement that fosters community, exploration, and shared experiences in the chocolate world.

At Oodaalolly, we are drawn not only to the unique chocolates Trish showcases but also to the mystique that surrounds her. Her passion and dedication to exploring the depth and breadth of the chocolate world are evident in every post. Following @myic2016 is like embarking on a chocolate adventure, guided by a mysterious yet knowledgeable aficionado.

Conclusion:

Female chocolate influencers are dramatically reshaping the landscape of chocolate content on social media. Their unique perspectives, in-depth knowledge, and passionate storytelling are not only enlightening but also incredibly inspiring. While the world of chocolate is vast and there are countless other talented women making waves, the seven influencers we've highlighted here are an excellent starting point for anyone looking to deepen their chocolate journey.

If there's someone you believe is a must-follow and we haven't included them on our list, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out to us on social media or email us at cacao@oodaalolly.com with your suggestions.

P.S.: We can't conclude without mentioning "the elephant in the room," Sharon Terenzi, also known as @thechocolatejournalist. Sharon is a standout figure in the chocolate industry, renowned for her informative, well-researched, and highly entertaining posts. Her adventures take her across the globe, from visiting chocolate makers and cacao farms to attending chocolate festivals. Along with her engaging social media presence, Sharon writes an excellent blog, making her a veritable treasure trove of chocolate knowledge and experiences. Her contribution to the chocolate world is undeniable, and she is certainly worth a follow for anyone passionate about chocolate.

7 Female Chocolate Influencers You Should Follow On Instagram