Gourmet Brownies - Factors to Consider When Purchasing

It seems like the new rage is gourmet brownies. Why should anyone be surprised, after all it is a type of chocolate with plenty of luscious munchies included. As the saying goes, who does not adore chocolate? Brownies make fantastic gifts for all circumstances, as they are not the usual run of the mill gift. Moreover it is a food item and who does not like getting a food gift.

Points to take into account when ordering gourmet brownies:

• Types of Ingredients - Find out what types of ingredients are used? They should be preservative free and all natural.

• Size - Find out the proportions? Standard size is 3x3.

• Weight - Make sure they have some bulk to them. Standard weight is approximately 4 oz. per brownie.

• Flavors - A company specializing in gourmet brownies should offer at least 6 - 10 flavors. When ordering you should have the options of picking certain flavors or opting for an assortment with no added charges.

• Freshness - They should be made the same day they are shipped and individually bagged to preserve the freshness.

• Packaging - At least 3 different packaging choices should be available. For example a gift box, gift basket or gift tin.

• Note Card - You should be able to provide a message with your gift at no extra charge.

• Shipping Protection - Find out what steps are being taken to safeguard your gourmet brownies while shipping? Packaging peanuts and bubble wrap should be used inside the shipping box for cushioning and protection.

• Shipping Choices - Local delivery and nationwide shipping should be offered. Make sure to ask if this is included in the brownie price or is it an additional expense. Most of the time shipping is an additional cost.

• Tracking Number - If your gift is being shipped make sure you are emailed the tracking number so you can stay up to date on the shipment.

• Price - You definitely want to get your money's worth. The standard price for a dozen brownies is $30.

• Guarantee - There should be a money back guarantee if for any reason the customer or recipient is not happy with the gift.

There is no question about it, gourmet brownies are the in-thing and they are appropriate for any situation. So the next time you need a special and considerate gift, brownies should be your first choice.

Schmerty's Cookies has 13 luscious kosher flavors of gourmet brownies that can be packaged in a gift box, basket or tin. Local delivery and nationwide shipping is available. To view more articles please visit The Schmerty's Blog.

Setting Up a Home-Based Gourmet Dog Bakery? Here Are a Few Essentials to Consider

If you are a stay-at-home mom (or person) and you are thinking about setting up a low cost business venture, then a home based gourmet dog bakery might be a good option for you. Aside from the fact that you can start your operations almost immediately, you can create your products right out of your kitchen too, certified or otherwise. You also have the liberty of being able to launch your business online, which can save you a lot of money in terms of rent and utility bills. Additionally, gourmet dog treats usually last for a few weeks. This means that you can create large batches of goodies and keep them in containers until they are ready to be shipped out.

So how exactly do you launch your own gourmet dog bakery? Here are a few tips.

1. Always check first local rules and regulations about creating and selling dog food and treats. Some states, counties and towns demand that dog food and treats should only be manufactured from certified kitchens. If this is the case, you might want to get your certification and permit from the local authorities first.

2. Make sure that you have good background knowledge of the foods that are safe to give to dogs. Try to choose ingredients that are suitable to all canine breeds so that you have a wide market base right from the start.

You can always specialize though. For example: you can create gourmet dog treats that are specifically for toy dog breeds, or for giant dogs, or for one breed only (like the poodle or the Great Dane or the Akita.) Although you are severely limiting your market base, specialized products are usually pegged at steeper prices which may earn you a lot of profit in the long run.

3. Try to create your own gourmet dog treat recipes. Creating gourmet treats usually means that you offer something better than the average dog treats in the market. You might want to try existing recipes first and then improve on these for that added flair. Later on, you can develop your own unique recipes.

4. Always test your products first with your pets (if you have canine companions.) Very often, your dog would tell you which ones are really good and which ones should be thrown out the window.

Karen Freeman is the author of Start Your Own Gourmet Dog Treats Business: Bake Your Way To Success. As a dog treats bakery owner, she shares her expert insider tips to starting and growing a successful dog bakery business from home. Be sure to visit www.home-made-dog-treats-business.com for tips on how for you can turn your passion for pets into a successful business.

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