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In between the assembly lines at the Creamery, the northernmost outlet of Babax Chocolate Factory on the Israeli-Egyptian border, the machines that generate powdered soft serve — formed in a dough shape known as “Dough-o-Gloom” or “Dough-noodle,” in Hebrew — grind the chocolate beans and begin the creation of sweet creamery treats.
Behind a busy food kiosk in several town in the southern Golan Heights, the factory is now making a profit. In recent months the family-owned business has seen regular visitor numbers, including a regular Middle East tourist. Many of them walk around the area speaking with sheepish looks. Every day, a small army of hands scoop powder from canisters and mix in chocolate and ice cream. Older Jordanian workers stand close in watch as others push carts loaded with large bags of creamery goodies — the latest flavors are marshmallow-filled carrot cake and Hot Fudge Brownie.
The Babax Chocolate Factory, built by a Jewish farmer, and set in stunning natural beauty, remains a tiring operation for employees who put in endless hours producing the creamy blend — made from marble and roasted beans, in the autumn flavors of chocolate orange, cayenne, and the company’s iconic Golden Tiger.
The family behind the plant intend to keep making creamery treats — and hope that traveling to remote areas, or selling it online, will help them succeed in the long run. In the meantime, that country remains closed to the family.
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