_{Top photo: Co-owner Ty Walker poses in front of a Valentine’s Day balloon display in Chocolate Plunge.}

By Aubree Rutter

REXBURG—As Valentine’s Day approaches, local chocolate shop Chocolate Plunge is sure to make this season of love extra sweet with red velvet cheesecake and hot chocolate.

The motto of Chocolate Plunge is, “Chocolate is happiness you can eat.” The shop offers cups of fresh strawberries, frozen bananas and even ice cream bars. Each treat is dipped in melted chocolate and topped with irresistible toppings including sprinkles, nuts, M&Ms and pretzels. To celebrate Valentine’s Day, the shop added two new items to their menu.

Ty Walker, the co-owner of Chocolate Plunge, revealed a limited-edition dessert, red velvet cheesecake. The cheesecake is hand-dipped into premium Swiss chocolate and dusted with golden graham cracker, mini marshmallows and tiny chocolate chips. It will be on the menu until the end of February.

Red velvet cheesecake isn’t the only special February treat. Steamy cups of Swiss hot chocolate are also new to the menu with topping choices of salted caramel, crushed peppermint or whipped cream.

For those looking for a perfect Valentine’s Day gift, Chocolate Plunge has a seasonal gift card available to purchase until Feb. 28. Each design features a strawberry heart and the word “love.”

“It’s just a fun experience here,” said Walker. “It’s a fun atmosphere with good vibes watching items dipped and rolled in chocolate and the smiles of customers.”

Whether you stop by on a date, a family outing or to satiate a solo chocolate craving, guests can dip in anytime.

Chocolate Plunge is located at 155 West Main Street and is open Monday through Friday from 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday hours are 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. The shop is closed on Sunday.