Dark Chocolate Myths: True or False

Dark chocolate is too bitter for snacking

FALSE. Did you know there’s only a 1% cacao difference between milk and dark chocolate? Cacao percentage determines sweetness so the higher the cacao, the less sweet on average, which allows the true chocolate flavour to shine. If you’re new to dark chocolate, try a flavoured bar like Excellence Orange Intense. These typically have a lower cacao percentage, which is a great starting point.

Dark chocolate has as much caffeine as coffee

FALSE. Caffeine is a natural compound derived from plant sources like kola nut and is naturally found in substances like coffee and tea. However, very little caffeine is found in chocolate. Generally, 1 oz of dark chocolate contains about 20mg of caffeine. By comparison, the average cup of coffee has approximately 80 to 155 mg. The caffeine content will always vary, depending on the product and even in some cases depending on the specific cacao bean and origin.

Dark chocolate is great for baking.

TRUE. Recipes often call for bittersweet or semisweet chocolate and that means dark chocolate in the 70% percent cacao range. It’s commonly used in recipes where chocolate is the hero ingredient, like desserts and baked goods.

All dark chocolate is the same

FALSE. Premium chocolate stands out from the rest on the flavour front. You know how recipes often call for a great bottle of wine? Cooking with dark chocolate is similar. The better the chocolate quality, the better the taste and end result.