American Hot Cocoa | Winter’s #1 Drink

Have you ever noticed that there are so many different types of cocoa powder to choose from? Which one is the one to choose for the recipe that you are creating? Here are a few tips on the different types of cocoa. Knowledge is power and WOW did I ever learn a lot to have a better understanding of cocoa. First of all, let’s remember that cocoa powder is just cocoa beans that have been roasted and pulverized into powder, right? Not exactly. The 2 types of cocoa areDutch Process cocoa powder and natural cocoa powder.Dutch Processwill usually be a darker color. I have found that some Dutch Process cocoa powders are similar to natural cocoa powder in color. Always check the ingredients so you know what you are buying. Dutch Process is just this… cocoa powder that has been washed in a potassium solution that neutralizes its acidity. The Dutching process also gives the cocoa powder a darker color. Dutch-processed cocoa powder in baking is usually paired with baking powder. The baking powder takes care of the acid component in leavening our baked goods. To make it even a simpler way to remember – Dutch-processed cocoa powder, acids stripped, darker color, reach for the baking powder.Natural cocoa powderis cocoa that has not had its acid stripped. Natural cocoa powder is lighter in color because it has all of its acids intact. It is usually paired with baking soda because the metallic taste that is released in the sodium carbonate of baking soda is mellowed by the acid in natural cocoa powder. Natural cocoa powder is usually what is found in American grocery stores. To make this even simpler to remember – Natural cocoa powder, acids present, light in color, grab that baking soda. Are there health benefits to cocoa powder? Yes, cocoa powder is made from cocao beans. To name a few that are stated by webmd: So now the question that I’m sure you’re wondering – What type of cocoa do I use to make a cup of hot cocoa? Because neither baking soda nor baking powder is generally used in hot cocoa, you are free to choose the cocoa of your choice. Also, any type of milk will work as well. Whole milk is rich and decadent. Almond/coconut milk makes a wonderful flavor as well. Try this…Use the powdered milk from your food storage, the cocoa from your food storage all of which are available atKitchen Kneads, and know that you always have just what is needed for a delicious cup of hot cocoa. Remember hot chocolate is using cocoa and yes there is powdered cocoa that can be used to make hot chocolate. Kitchen Kneads has powdered cocoa that is perfect for this. Powdered cacao can also be used to make cold chocolate milk. You may need to add a sweetener of choice. Make sure to always have powdered cacao on hand for perfect hot chocolate as well. A great way to make this a family Hygge experience – include a chocolate board filled with all sorts of add-ins for your cup of cocoa. Your board could include crushed peppermint candies, mini marshmallows, sprinkles, whipped cream, white and darkchocolatepieces, caramel sauce or caramel candies,  or even graham crackers. Enjoy and have a wonderful winter of hot chocolate and hot cocoa with your family and friends. Make memories, good times, and lots of laughter. I have included an easy and fast hot cocoa recipe today using a natural cocoa powder. I used coconut sugar and added cinnamon. When heated throughout, I added ¼ teaspoon vanilla and topped it with whipped cream and dark chocolate curls. The combination of delicious milk chocolate, cinnamon, vanilla, cream, and dark chocolate – absolutely divine. **As you can see, the recipe is basically 1 tablespoon of each ingredient. This can be adjusted for sweetness and additional flavors as desired. Kitchen Kneads is your one-stop shop for quality grains, flour, kitchen appliances, and other ingredients. Kitchen Kneads is your one stop shop for quality grains, flour, kitchen appliances and other ingredients. We are Utah’s premiere baking and cooking resource! Questions?
888-881-9957
info@kitchenkneads.com2025 |Kitchen Kneads|All Rights Reserved|Privacy Policy|Shipping Policy|Return Policy|XML Sitemap