Cocoa powder is a key ingredient in many recipes. However, what do you do if you run out or don’t have any on hand? In this article, I’ll share 9 substitutes for cocoa powder that you can use in your favorite recipes!
These substitutes are all readily available and easy to use. So, next time you need cocoa powder but don’t have any, don’t worry – there is a substitute for that!
Substitutes for Cocoa Powder
- Dutch-process cocoa
- Unsweetened cooking chocolate
- Carob powder
- Hot cocoa mix
- Hot chocolate mix
- Chocolate chips
- Dark chocolate
- Coverture chocolate
- Milo
Dutch-process cocoa
Dutch-process cocoa, also known as Dutched cocoa, is a type of cocoa powder that has been treated with an alkali solution. This process gives Dutch-process cocoa a darker color and milder flavor than regular cocoa powder.
Chocolate bars, whipped cream and ice cream, cookies, jams and jellies, cakes, and cupcakes are just a few of the foods that can be made with Dutch-process cocoa. It may also be used in a 1:1 ratio as a replacement for cocoa powder.
The main difference between the two is that Dutch-process cocoa has a more intense flavor and darker color.
It also makes chocolate taste less acidic, which is why it’s often used in recipes calling for a deep chocolate flavor, such as brownies or cake.
When substituting Dutch-process cocoa for Cocoa Powder, be aware that the final product will be darker in color.
Unsweetened Cooking Chocolate
Unsweetened cooking chocolate is a common baking ingredient that can be used as a substitute for cocoa powder.
Unlike cocoa powder, which is made from roasted and ground cacao beans, unsweetened cooking chocolate contains cocoa butter.
As a result, it has a richer flavor and smoother texture. It also melts more easily than cocoa powder.
When substituting unsweetened cooking chocolate for cocoa powder, use less of the chocolate since it is more concentrated.
For example, if the recipe calls for 3 tbsp of cocoa powder, use 2 tbsp of unsweetened cooking chocolate. A good rule of thumb is to always use less unsweetened cooking chocolate than the recipe calls for cocoa powder.
Carob Powder
Carob powder is a great alternative to cocoa as they look very similar. Furthermore, Carob powder can be used as a 1:1 ratio substitute in recipes. It is also used as a sweetener.
Carob powder is made from the roasted and ground pods of the carob tree. The carob tree is native to the Mediterranean region and has been cultivated for centuries.
Carob powder has a unique flavor that is somewhat sweet and reminiscent of chocolate. It can be used in baking, as a topping for ice cream or yogurt, or mixed into smoothies or milkshakes.
When substituting carob powder for cocoa powder, it is important to keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different.
However, carob powder is a healthy alternative to cocoa powder that is worth trying.
Hot cocoa mix
Many people think hot cocoa mix and cocoa powder can’t be used interchangeably, but this is not the case. Hot cocoa mix is made from cocoa powder, milk powder, sugar, and other flavorings. So you can definitely use it as a substitute for cocoa powder.
However, while you can use the hot cocoa mix as a substitute for cocoa powder, you will need to use 2 tablespoons of hot cocoa mix to 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder.
This ratio is essential because the cocoa in the mix is less concentrated than cocoa powder. In addition, the hot cocoa mix contains milk powder, which will change the flavor and texture of your baked goods.
So if you are looking for a good substitute with a true chocolate flavor, be sure to give hot cocoa mix as a replacement.
Hot chocolate mix
Hot chocolate mix can be used as a substitute for cocoa powder in recipes. Simply use a 2 to 1 ratio of the hot chocolate mix to cocoa powder. This substitution will work in most recipes that call for cocoa powder, resulting in a rich chocolate flavor.
Keep in mind that hot chocolate mix is sweeter than cocoa powder, so you may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe accordingly.
Using hot chocolate mix as a substitute for cocoa powder is a quick and easy way to add a delicious chocolate flavor to your favorite recipes.
Chocolate chips
Chocolate chips can serve as a substitute for cocoa powder in various desserts. If a recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder, you can use half a cup of chocolate chips instead.
Chocolate chips are also a good substitute for baking squares or chocolate baking bars. When substituting chocolate chips for cocoa powder, keep in mind that the chocolate chips will retain their shape and will not blend into the batter as readily as cocoa powder would.
As a result, your baked goods may have a more textured appearance. However, you’ll simply need to melt the chocolate chips first. So if you’re in a pinch and don’t have any cocoa powder on hand, reach for the chocolate chips instead.
Milo
Milo is another excellent alternative to cocoa powder, especially if you’re looking for a healthy substitute. Milo is made from malted barley, wheat, and milk powder. It is also fortified with vitamins and minerals.
Milo can be used as a replacement for cocoa powder in baking. Simply use the same amount of Milo as you would cocoa powder. For example, if the recipe calls for one cup of cocoa powder, use one cup of Milo instead.
Milo has a distinct flavor that is similar to cocoa but not as bitter. It is also less sweet than cocoa. So if you are looking for a healthier alternative to cocoa powder, give Milo a try.
Dark chocolate
Did you know that you can substitute dark chocolate for cocoa powder? It’s true! Dark chocolate contains all of the same nutrients as cocoa powder, but it also has a richer flavor.
So if you’re looking for a substitute for cocoa powder, consider using melted dark chocolate for your recipe. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe, depending on how sweet the chocolate is.
The rule of thumb when replacing cocoa powder with dark chocolate is to swap every 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder 2 tablespoons of dark chocolate.
Give it a try next time you’re baking!
Coverture chocolate
Many sweets, including cakes and brownies, rely on cocoa powder for both taste and texture. However, cocoa powder can be difficult to work with since it may quickly clump up and become difficult to incorporate into a recipe.
Coverture chocolate is an excellent option as it has a high proportion of cocoa butter than normal cocoa powder and is, therefore, less prone to clump.
When substituting coverture chocolate for cocoa powder, use a 2 to 3 ratio; that is, for every 3 tablespoons of cocoa powder called for in a recipe, substitute 2 tablespoons of melted coverture chocolate.
With this simple substitution, you can create rich and flavorful desserts that are sure to please even the most discerning palate.
FAQ
What is a good substitute for cocoa powder in cake?
Unsweetened chocolate, dark chocolate, or semisweet chocolate are all good substitutes for cocoa powder in cake. You will need to use a different amount of the substitute since they all have different cocoa butter concentrations. Generally, substitute 3 tbsp of cocoa powder for 1 ounce of unsweetened chocolate.
Can I use milo instead of cocoa powder?
Yes, you can use milo as a substitute for cocoa powder. Milo is made from malted barley, wheat, and milk powder. It is also fortified with vitamins and minerals. Simply use the same amount of Milo as you would cocoa powder.
Can vanilla substitute for cocoa powder?
If you are planning to remove cocoa powder from a cake recipe with vanilla then you simply need to add an extra 1/2 tsp of vanilla extract and leave out the cocoa powder.
What is a good substitute for cocoa powder in chili?
You can swap and use 1 oz of unsweetened baking chocolate for 3 tbsp of cocoa powder called for in a chili recipe. Or you could also use dark chocolate, semisweet chocolate, or even milk chocolate as substitutes.
What can you substitute for cocoa powder in frosting?
You can use unsweetened chocolate as a replacement for cocoa powder in frosting. For every 3 tbsp use 1 oz of unsweetened chocolate. If you want to keep the recipe vegan, then you could use carob powder as a substitute.
How do I substitute cacao powder for cocoa powder in baking?
To replace the cocoa powder with cacao powder in baking, you simply need to use less of it. Cacao powder is more potent so use ¾ cup of cacao powder for every one cup of cocoa powder that your recipe calls for.
What can you use instead of cocoa powder in brownies?
You can use unsweetened baking chocolate, chocolate chips, carob, hot cocoa powder, or any of the other substitutes listed in this article. Simply use the same amount of the substitute as you would cocoa powder.
Conclusion
So if you’re looking for a delicious and easy way to add a touch of chocolate flavor to your favorite recipes, consider using one of these 9 substitutes for cocoa powder. With so many great options to choose from, there’s sure to be one that will fit the bill perfectly. So get baking and enjoy the sweet taste of chocolate!