Back in 2015, Scotty and Ashley Jackson took a chance on crafting a new business—one that would be a sensory treat for those with a sweet tooth and a deep appreciation for genuine chocolate, caramel and assorted confections that are sought after the world over.
Starting out on Campus Corner in Norman, the Jacksons saw continued interest and growth in their sticky, sweet and sugary delights. They have placed first in the annual Norman Chocolate Festival four times so far. The word is getting out about Apple Tree Chocolate.
The Oklahoma City store, at 1332 W. Memorial Road in the mixed-use, Chisholm Creek shopping center, opened in June 2020, as the pandemic was in full swing.
But Ashley said she and her husband and Apple Tree crew buckled down and got through the worst of it. And now they are busy enough that this month they will be sending out catalogs for folks looking for holiday shopping ideas.
“The caramel apples are what we are known for,” Ashley said.
In the glass display case, the autumn-oriented treats were exceedingly enticing, ranging from pumpkin vanilla swirl bars to pumpkin spice-flavored caramel apples, always a fall favorite.
Ashley smiled as she explained that fall is her favorite season as well as her busiest.
“We are gearing up for a lot of gift orders … and a lot of corporate orders. We get them early so we can make sure they get them in time.”
And while 2021 was difficult in terms of supply chain issues, this year has been a lot better for both the Oklahoma City and Norman stores.
It’s a relief that supply issues are returning to normal as the holiday season rapidly approaches.
“There was a chocolate shortage in 2021, and that is difficult when your business is chocolate. But the chocolate is well represented, along with truffles, fudge, bark and delicious strawberries dipped in, well, chocolate, of course!"
Article by Andrew Griffin
Photography by Ana Covey
Originally published in Cleveland County City Lifestyle