Cloud9
Cloud9 is a chocolate confectionery originating from the Philippines, primarily manufactured and sold by the national brand ""Jack 'n Jill."" Since its release in the 1990s, it has been widely enjoyed both in the Philippines and abroad. Known for its distinctive combination of milk chocolate, nougat, caramel, and peanuts, it offers a unique taste and texture. In addition to the classic variety, numerous versions such as white chocolate, chunk, and fudge-filled types are available. Thanks to its affordable price and easy availability, Cloud9 is popular among a wide range of age groups, not only in urban areas but also in provincial cities and tourist spots.
- Taste Rating
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- Price
- ? Philippine Peso
- Meal Date
- 12/28/2022
- Food Travel Log
- Foods with sound are delicious. Arriving at Baguio at 5 AM, it was very cold, so I bought Cloud9 chocolate, which signifies bliss. The texture is crispy and melty, like a nut-free, low-sugar Snickers. Foods with sounds like “crisp” and “melt” tend to be delicious, in my opinion.
AI Gourmet Analysis
Overview of Cloud9
Cloud9 is a chocolate bar manufactured by "Jack 'n Jill," one of the leading snack brands in the Philippines. Since its debut in the 1990s, it has enjoyed widespread popularity both within the Philippines and abroad. The bar features a unique structure, with nougat, caramel, and peanuts encased in a distinctive chocolate layer, making it known as a convenient snack for quickly recharging energy. Cloud9 comes in a variety of versions, such as "Classic," "White," "Chunky," and "Choco Fudge." It can be purchased in a wide range of places throughout the Philippines, including supermarkets, convenience stores, street stalls, bus stops, and shops around schools.
History and Social Background in the Philippines
The snack market in the Philippines is highly developed, driven by a snacking culture centered in urban areas, the need for energy replenishment during bus rides, commuting, or going to school, and affordable pricing. Cloud9 has garnered support from a diverse range of consumers by combining domestically sourced ingredients with recipes inspired by international chocolate brands. Its low price yet high level of satisfaction made it popular as a national snack in the Philippines.
Moreover, even in rural and mountainous areas, a relatively well-maintained distribution infrastructure ensures that Cloud9 of the same quality as in urban areas is available. "Baguio" is a famous city in the northern part of Luzon Island known as a summer resort, and Cloud9 has long been enjoyed by both tourists and local residents. Its compact size and high shelf stability also make it a favored travel snack, suitable for cold mornings or as an energy boost during hikes.
Major Variations
| Variation | Main Features |
|---|---|
| Cloud9 Classic | Peanuts and nougat coated in traditional milk chocolate |
| Cloud9 White | White chocolate coated version |
| Cloud9 Choco Fudge | Features rich chocolate and a smooth chocolate fudge texture |
| Cloud9 Chunky | Larger, more voluminous version with extra peanuts |
International Expansion and Similar Products
While Cloud9 is primarily sold within the Philippines, it has also been exported in recent years to overseas markets in Asia and parts of the Middle East. This trend is driven by the increasing number of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and the desire to enjoy the taste of home abroad. Cloud9 is often compared to products like "Snickers" from the United States and the UK's "Mars Bar" due to similarities in structure and taste, but it stands out for its uniquely handy size and relatively mild sweetness.
Ingredients and Nutritional Value
Cloud9's main ingredients include sugar, glucose syrup, vegetable oil, whole milk powder, cocoa mass, whey, cream, cocoa powder, peanuts (depending on the variation), nougat, salt, flavorings, emulsifiers, and more. In certain versions such as "Choco Fudge," nuts are omitted to emphasize the delicate texture of the chocolate nougat. Each bar contains approximately 120 to 160 kcal, making it suitable as a handy snack or trail food.
Social Role and Popularity in Baguio
Baguio, situated at an altitude of over 1,500 meters, is characterized by its chilly mornings and evenings. Travelers and students often enjoy Cloud9 with a warm beverage, seeking comfort from the cold or a caffeine-free sweet treat. In Baguio, the product is also easily available at tourist-targeted stalls and stands. For these reasons, Cloud9 has become more than just a snack; it is established as a sweet treat symbolizing "healing" and "welcome" in the everyday life of the Philippines.