Cocoa powder makes an excellent addition to baked goods, desserts and hot beverages, serving as both a natural sweetener and fiber source. Organic cacao powder offers many essential minerals including iron, manganese and magnesium; for optimal flavor and nutritional benefits look for finely ground brands without excessive fat content for optimal flavor and nutritional benefits. When purchasing cocoa on the market it’s important to look out for brands which do not contain added sugars, stabilizers or anti-caking agents – these could reduce sugar intake in recipes while still adding flavor & nutrients from organic sources.

Cacao powder differs from cocoa in that cacao is produced using raw, minimally processed beans while cocoa undergoes heating during processing, which reduces its nutritional value. Although cocoa still boasts significant levels of antioxidants, they don’t compare as strongly to raw cacao’s antioxidant power. High quality organic cocoa powder will have finely ground particles with low fat content making it suitable for baking or hot chocolate production.

Cocoa boasts not only healthy fats, but is also abundant in essential vitamins & minerals such as magnesium, iron and copper. Cocoa boasts an ORAC score that measures its ability to fight off free radicals & provides flavanols as well as offering small doses of caffeine that may help increase energy levels & focus.

Coffee and cocoa seeds both originate from tropical plants; however, their growth & processing differ considerably across the world. Cacao pods contain 40-50 seeds; these are then finely ground into cocoa powder for sale as a bulk commodity.

When mixing cocoa powder with liquids, it’s vital that you stir thoroughly to avoid lumps. Hydrophobic granules of cocoa will prevent water from passing easily through them; when using liquid sweeteners such as maple syrup, honey or agave nectar it is helpful to measure them first to avoid clumping & dissolve quicker.

The highest-rated cocoa powders are non-GMO, gluten-free, and contain no added sugars or stabilizing agents; some are even Fair Trade certified, ensuring farmers receiving fair payment for their harvesting and processing efforts. Top brands of cocoa powder such as Penzey’s Ghirardelli E Guittard can be found online or in stores such as Target or Whole Foods.