Baking Ingredient | Vegan Gluten Free Low Carb

Dark Cocoa

Theobroma cacao Allergen-Free
Dark Cocoa

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Malvaceae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Cacao beans

The Forktionary Angle

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Definition

Cocoa powder with a low fat content and intense chocolate flavor, often unsweetened and used for baking, beverages, and desserts.

Sensory Profile

TasteBitter, Earthy, Rich, Slightly Acidic
TextureFine Powder, Dry
AromaDeep Chocolate, Roasty, Earthy
AcidityMedium-High

Technical Metrics

Nutrition Facts

Per 5g (1 tbsp)
Calories228 kcal
Total Fat13.7g
Saturated Fat8.1g
Trans Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Protein19.6g
Total Carbohydrate57.9g
Dietary Fiber37g
Total Sugars1.8g
Calcium128mg
Iron13.9mg
Potassium1524mg

Chef’s Secret

Bloom dark cocoa powder by whisking it with hot liquid (water, milk, coffee) before adding to batters; this intensifies its chocolate flavor.

Substitutions

Best Match

Unsweetened Baking Chocolate

3 tbsp cocoa + 1 tbsp fat to 1 oz chocolate

Provides rich chocolate flavor, needs adjustment for sugar.

Dutch-Processed Cocoa

1:1

Milder, less acidic, use with baking powder instead of soda.

Carob Powder

1:1

Similar color, naturally sweet, caffeine-free, different flavor profile.

Instant Espresso Powder

1-2 tsp to enhance chocolate flavor

Not a direct substitute for bulk, but good for depth.

Buying Guide

Choose natural unsweetened for recipes using baking soda, or Dutch-processed for baking powder. Check fat content for richness.

Flavor Pairings

Coffee Chilli Red Wine Berries Mint Orange.