About Lauren

Lauren Klein is the founder of Handcrafted Chocolate, located in Central New Jersey. She is known for her hand-painted chocolates, luscious fillings and creative flavor offerings. 

Lauren founded Handcrafted Chocolate in 2021, culminating her passions for hospitality and creating sweet endings. In addition to her bachelors degree in Baking & Pastry Arts & Food Service Management from Johnson & Wales University, Lauren has over 10 years of experience in food service.  

She began cooking with her grandmother at a young age, and fell in love with it. Lauren attended a high school culinary program that completely changed her perspective on baking. Her passion for pastry was clear- She earned an internship at Jean Georges restaurant in NYC under renowned pastry chef Johnny Iuzzini during the summer of 2010.

In the last ten years since graduation, Lauren worked in some of NYC’s top restaurants honing her skills.  She worked with notable chefs in the kitchens of USHG and B&B hospitality. Recently, she was the opening Executive Pastry Chef at the Heirloom at The St Laurent in Asbury Park, NJ (The Star Ledger's best restaurant of 2022.) These experiences have to help her create one-of-a-kind, ethically sourced bon bons for your enjoyment! 

In 2024 she competed in the National Pastry Conference Chocolatier competition and won 1st Place in her category.

When she isn't in the kitchen, you can find her adventuring, relaxing on the Jersey Shore and indulging in all the good things life has to offer! To connect with Lauren, follow her @handcraftedchocolate on Instagram and Facebook!