Meet Sam Lang | Co-owner & Executive Pastry Chef

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sam Lang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sam, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
When Travis and I decided to start Cacao Chemistry, our primary motivation was to fill a niche in Colorado Springs for high-quality, artisanal chocolate that wasn’t just delicious but also creatively distinct. During my time in the baking program at Johnson & Wales University, I became captivated by the intricate chemistry of chocolate making—how slight variations in process could create vastly different flavors and textures. Meanwhile, Travis, with his analytical skills as a computer engineer, was equally fascinated by the precision and innovation possible in crafting unique confections. We saw an opportunity to blend our passions and expertise to create a chocolate shop that offered something truly special and different. Our vision was to not only share our love for chocolate but to also build a community around unique, handcrafted sweets that sparked joy and curiosity in our customers.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
At Cacao Chemistry, what sets us apart is our dedication to the craft of chocolate making, where we blend traditional techniques with innovative flavors to create something truly unique. Our chocolates are not just treats; they’re experiences designed to evoke a sense of wonder and discovery. Each piece is handcrafted with attention to the finest details—from sourcing ethical ingredients to experimenting with unexpected combinations like lavender-infused dark chocolate or chipotle-spiced ganache. What we’re most proud of is our ability to maintain the high quality and creativity of our products while growing our community of chocolate lovers. Our passion for educating our customers about the artistry behind our confections is central to our brand, making each visit to our shop a memorable experience.

The journey to where we are today wasn’t easy. It required not just hard work but immense patience and grit. In the early days, balancing the demands of a new business with our personal commitments was challenging. We faced hurdles like managing supply chain issues, navigating financial ups and downs, and learning on the fly how to effectively market our niche products. Overcoming these challenges involved a lot of learning from mistakes, listening to customer feedback, and continuously refining our processes and offerings. Through it all, we’ve learned the importance of resilience and the value of community support. What we want the world to know about Cacao Chemistry is that it’s more than just a chocolate shop—it’s a testament to the power of following your passion and the incredible things that can happen when you commit to making every detail count.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For a week-long trip that showcases the best of Colorado Springs, I’d create an itinerary packed with natural beauty, local culture, and plenty of great eats. We’d start by exploring the stunning rock formations at Garden of the Gods, an absolute must-see for its breathtaking views and fantastic hiking trails. Another day would be dedicated to Magictown at The Michael Garman Gallery, where we’d marvel at the intricate, whimsical sculptures depicting an imaginary cityscape.

No visit would be complete without a trip to The Penny Arcade in Manitou Springs, a delightful throwback with vintage arcade games and a charming, nostalgic vibe. For dining, we’d kick off with breakfast at Loyal Coffee, renowned for its excellent brews and a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Dinner at White Pie would follow, where we’d indulge in their delicious, creative takes on pizza with a crust that’s simply to die for. Evenings would be spent enjoying innovative cocktails at District Elleven, a fantastic spot for a relaxed yet chic night out.

Throughout the week, I’d also include some downtime at local parks, perhaps a drive through the scenic highways nearby, and certainly a lot of casual strolls downtown to soak in the vibrant local art and music scenes. And of course, we’d cap off our days with visits to Cacao Chemistry, where they could experience firsthand the art of chocolate making and enjoy some exquisite desserts that highlight our passion for quality and creativity. This trip would not just be about seeing the sights but truly experiencing the heart and soul of Colorado Springs through its community and culture.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to give a huge shoutout to Chef Johannes Busch, my Johnson & Wales University mentor. Chef Busch taught the chocolates and confections class, and it was under his guidance that I truly fell in love with the art of chocolate making. His passion for the craft and meticulous attention to detail were inspiring and transformative for my career. He pushed us to explore the limits of creativity in confections, instilling a deep appreciation for the intricate balance of flavors and textures. His teachings were foundational in shaping the quality and uniqueness of the chocolates we create at Cacao Chemistry. Chef Busch’s influence is a thread that runs through every piece we make, and I am profoundly grateful for his mentorship and the enduring impact he has had on my professional life.

Website: https://www.cacaochemistry.com

Instagram: @cacaochemistry

Facebook: facebook.com/cacaochemistry