This reporter has never met a chocolate that she didn’t like. Or, at least, eat-as the case with cheap valentine’s chocolates bought at gas stations. Loving the chocolate is saved for the best. Or, as with Pnut Butter Cups Company, the very best.
As stated in the title, they are peanut butter cups. But they are not the run-of-the-mill peanut butter cups, they are an explosion of taste and texture that keeps your mouth happy for a long, long while.
Where can you find these delectable treats? Apparently, in many locations; Meijers, Heinen’s, many Giant Eagle Market District stores, and even Amazon! Curious yet?
The brick-and-mortar where these heavenly morsels are created is right here at 2010 Milton Blvd. in Newton Falls. Pnut Butter Cups Company is the brain child of Jennifer Falb, the founder. It all started because her Aunt had a special recipe, she remembers it from when she was 11 years old. Her Aunt told her to try one, and young Jennifer was amazed-how do you get peanut butter inside the chocolate? She didn’t even like peanut butter or Reese’s cups. She was convinced to try it, because ‘it’s different.’ Trust me, we all are glad she did.
As Jennifer got older, she would make some batches for work or special occasions. Everyone who tried it told her she should sell them!
Jennifer went through school, obtained multiple degrees, even her MBA in business management. Then she signed up for a course at a business incubator called the Cleveland Central Kitchen, which teaches about starting food companies. When she was asked what her business was, she didn’t initially have one. When told the course is better with a business in mind, she remembered all of the comments about her Aunt’s recipe, and decided that is her business. The class guided her to start her company by the end of 2022.
She loves selling a delicious candy, and really loves seeing the expression when someone tries it for the first time. Ethel’s reaction? Eyes rolled up then closed, various ohhs and ahhs, and a moment in time that there was nothing in the world outside of my tastebuds. And it is the same for every piece!
The shop is small, and every inch of space is in use! From a tasteful display area to the customized molds, cooling tunnel and packaging area, it all fits into 1200 square feet. She is rapidly running out of space.
In a typical production day, about 5000 peanut butter cups are made. The day starts with making the compounds and getting the packaging ready. The compounds go through the customized molds, then down a long area allowing the cups to cool. Onto packaging and distribution.
Although it started as one woman with a tasty dream, she does have some help. She has utilized several consultants in various capacities and has several employees, even her second-grade teacher.
When not in the store, Jennifer is out promoting. If you see the Kandie Van, know that it is filled with deliciousness and headed to delis, farmers’ markets, grocery stores and area demos. Pnut Butter Cups are even found at b.a. Sweeties Candy Company, which is the largest candy store in the nation. (Go, you must, not a far drive!) She is grateful to local businesses for carrying her line in their stores; K & K Market, Broken Leaf and Fieldview Acres.
Out and about for a day? Stop in the store! They carry nougat candy made in house, also Anastasia Saltwater Taffy, and Poco Munch Popcorn. Gift certificates are available. You can find them on Facebook, and at pnutbuttercups.com.
The tag line for the business is Creamy, Dreamy and Delicious. It certainly lives up to it!
