Peanut Kisses
Peanut Kisses
Description
Bohol is the proud birthplace and heart of authentic Peanut Kisses production. Here, these cone-shaped treats symbolize the province itself, deliberately crafted to resemble the famous Chocolate Hills. Visitors to Bohol can find the freshest versions and widest variety, from traditional recipes to innovative variations created by local producers.
Dietary Information
Peanuts
Eggs
Vegetarian
This dish is not vegan
This dish contains gluten
Serving information
Serving style
In Bohol, they're often served alongside local brewed coffee or hot chocolate. Some cafes in Tagbilaran and Panglao offer them as complimentary treats with beverage orders.
Quick facts
Souvenir shops operate from 7 AM - 8 PM. Markets typically open early (6 AM - 7 PM). Chocolate Hills complex shops follow tourist hours (7 AM - 6 PM).
Safety Tips
What to Look For
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Properly sealed packaging with minimal air inside
Good packaging prevents moisture and contaminants from affecting quality and safety. Look for packages that are tightly sealed and not puffy.
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Uniform light golden-brown color
Consistent coloring indicates proper baking, which ensures food safety and optimal texture. Avoid packages with very dark or unevenly colored cookies.
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Established brands with clear manufacturing dates
Reputable producers like Alturas, Panda, or certified local makers follow proper food safety standards and clearly mark production dates.
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Stored away from direct sunlight and heat in shops
Proper storage conditions in stores suggest the product has been handled correctly throughout the supply chain.
What to avoid
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Packages with broken seals or punctures
Compromised packaging can allow moisture, pests, or contaminants to enter, potentially making the product unsafe.
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Excessive crumbs inside the package
Too many crumbs suggest rough handling or old product that has started to deteriorate.
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Rancid or unusual smell when package is opened
Peanuts can go rancid, producing a bitter, unpleasant smell. This indicates the product is no longer safe to consume.
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Extremely discounted prices on products near tourist areas
Unusually cheap Peanut Kisses may be old stock, counterfeit, or made with lower-quality ingredients. Quality products have a fair market price.
Price information
Price range
Budget tips
- Standard packages cost 40-100 PHP when purchased directly from local markets or production facilities.
- Premium gift boxes with assortments or special variations range from 150-250 PHP.
- The Alturas Supermarket chain (local to Bohol) often has good prices on fresh stock.
- Some production facilities offer factory-second packages (slightly irregular shapes) at discounted prices.
Value indicators
- Freshness - look for recently produced batches.
- Integrity of cookies - minimal breakage indicates careful handling.
- Proper packaging that showcases the product while protecting it.
- Local producer certifications or awards displayed on packaging.
Where to Find This Dish
Tagbilaran City Center
The provincial capital has numerous souvenir shops and markets selling various brands of Peanut Kisses.
Island City Mall, BQ Mall, Tagbilaran Public Market, Dao Terminal
Morning, Afternoon
Chocolate Hills Complex
Souvenir shops at this major tourist destination specialize in Peanut Kisses and other local delicacies.
Chocolate Hills viewing decks, Carmen town proper
Morning (8 AM - 12 PM), Afternoon (2 PM - 5 PM)
Panglao Island
Tourist-oriented shops in this beach destination offer Peanut Kisses at a slight premium.
Alona Beach area, Panglao Public Market
All day, Evening
Production Facilities
Some manufacturers offer factory tours and have on-site stores with the freshest products.
Alturas Peanut Kisses Factory (Tagbilaran), Panda Peanut Kisses Producer
Business hours (8 AM - 5 PM)
Vendor Tips
- Buy directly from Alturas supermarket for good prices on fresh products.
- Ask locals for recommendations on small-batch producers for unique variations.
- Some tourist shops near ports and hotels mark up prices significantly - compare before buying.
- Factory outlets sometimes offer 'factory seconds' (slightly imperfect shape) at discounted prices.
How to Order
Regional Variations
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Artisanal Peanut Kisses
(Special Homemade Peanut Kisses)
Small-batch producers in Bohol sometimes create versions with slightly different textures or ingredients - some chewier, some crumblier based on family recipes.
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Ube-Flavored Peanut Kisses
(Ube Peanut Kisses)
A local variation incorporating purple yam flavor, sometimes with a purple tint.
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Chocolate Hills Special
(Chocolate Hills Special)
Premium gift packages containing multiple variations, often sold in boxes shaped like the Chocolate Hills.
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Tablea Peanut Kisses
(Tablea Peanut Kisses)
A variation incorporating local tablea (pure cacao tablets) for a chocolate-peanut combination.
Cultural context
History
Peanut Kisses were created in Bohol during the mid-20th century, allegedly inspired by the American Hershey's Kisses chocolate but adapted to use local ingredients abundant in the region, particularly peanuts. The decision to shape them like the province's Chocolate Hills transformed them into a symbol of Bohol's identity. Initially made by small family businesses, they've grown to become commercially produced while maintaining traditional recipes, with several established brands competing in the market.
Local significance
In Bohol, Peanut Kisses are a source of local pride and economic opportunity. They represent the perfect marriage of culinary tradition and smart tourism marketing, capitalizing on the connection to the Chocolate Hills.
Eating customs
- In Bohol, they're often served with 'sikwate' (local hot chocolate drink) or brewed coffee.
- Local cafes may offer them as complimentary treats with beverages.
- Some Boholanos crush them over sweet sticky rice (kalamay) for a textural contrast.