ChilliCream GraphQL Platform is a suite of open-source GraphQL tools for .NET that includes Hot Chocolate, a GraphQL server; Strawberry Shake, a type-safe GraphQL client; Nitro, a GraphQL IDE; and Green Donut, a DataLoader implementation.
Hot Chocolate addresses the need for efficient GraphQL server implementation in the .NET ecosystem by providing a feature-rich server that handles schema definition, data fetching optimization, and API gateway functionality. Strawberry Shake solves the client-side problem by generating strongly-typed .NET classes from GraphQL schemas and offering a reactive store for client-side caching and data-fetching strategies, similar to patterns found in JavaScript GraphQL clients. Green Donut tackles the N+1 query problem through batching and caching. Nitro provides a Monaco-based IDE available as a desktop app, web app, or middleware that can be integrated into .NET and Node.js GraphQL endpoints.
Teams building GraphQL APIs in .NET should consider Hot Chocolate if they need a performant, feature-complete server with gateway capabilities. Strawberry Shake suits developers building UIs in Blazor or MAUI who want type safety and reactive data management without manual type definitions. Nitro appeals to developers and data scientists who need a capable interface for exploring and testing GraphQL APIs. The platform's integrated approach means these tools are designed to work together within the .NET ecosystem, though each can be adopted independently.
Almost all open issues are raised by outside users rather than the core team, indicating a substantial base of adopters reporting real-world use. Maintainers typically respond to new issues and pull requests within a day. Work in the issue tracker is dominated by labels for Hot Chocolate, Strawberry Shake, and stale issues.
