Can i substitute cocoa powder for unsweetened chocolate

If you're in the middle of making a recipe and have discovered you're all out, don't worry, you have some options. There are two types of cocoa powder: Dutch-process cocoa and natural. Either can be labeled as "unsweetened cocoa. Cocoa powder in its natural state is not sweet. Natural cocoa tastes slightly more acidic, although you probably wouldn't think of it as acidic if you didn't try it side by side with Dutch-process cocoa. If your recipe does not specify which type of cocoa powder to use, you can use either.

Not sure which one you have? Natural cocoa tends to be lighter in color, almost a reddish brown, and also more intense in bitter chocolate flavor. When combined with the right amount of sugar, natural cocoa really hits that stimulating, deep chocolaty note. If you have Dutch-process cocoa powder, you can add a little bit of acid to it cream of tartar , white vinegar, lemon juice to simulate natural cocoa powder.

Replace the natural cocoa powder called for with an equal amount of Dutch-process cocoa. Swap 1 ounce of unsweetened baking chocolate for 3 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder. Then omit 1 tablespoon of butter, oil, or shortening from the recipe to account for the higher fat content in the baking chocolate.

To make this substitution work, melt the unsweetened chocolate and add it to the recipe when you add the sugar and butter. This will ensure that it gets well integrated with the other ingredients. By Katlyn Moncada Updated July 28, Each product we feature has been independently selected and reviewed by our editorial team. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission. Save Pin FB More.

Credit: Blaine Moats. Substitute for semisweet or bittersweet chocolate 1 oz. Comments Add Comment. Back to story Comment on this project. Tell us what you think More Articles Nutrition in Carob Vs. Related Articles Nutrition in Carob Vs. How to Substitute Cocoa Powder for Healthy Butter Substitutes for Brownies. How to Substitute Agave Nectar for Sugar. Greek Yogurt Instead of Butter in Baking.

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