Difference Between Unsweetened Cocoa Power & Hot Chocolate

Unsweetened cocoa powder is an ingredient with which hot chocolate is made. While raw cocoa powder contains certain nutrients, hot chocolate is a dessert drink without substantial nutritional value.

Origin

When cocoa butter is pressed out of cocoa liquor, the remaining solids are called cocoa powder. Alkali may be added to neutralize cocoa's natural acidity, whereby it becomes known as Dutch, or alkalized, cocoa powder.

Benefits

Naturally unsweetened and low in fat, cocoa powder contains 10 calories per tablespoon. Unprocessed powder retains antioxidants called polyphenols.

Features

Cocoa powder ranges in color from light red to black. Its smooth flavor and varied intensity are well suited to syrups, ice cream and baked goods.

Hot Chocolate

Hot chocolate believed to have originated with the Mayans 2,000 years ago. Then called Xocolatl, the drink was bitter and unsweetened. Once introduced to Europe, hot chocolate became a status symbol of the elite, who began experimenting with variations on the original recipe.

Types

What most know as hot chocolate is a mixture of cocoa powder, milk and sugar. One cup can provide hundreds of calories, depending on embellishments such as vanilla bean, hazelnuts and marshmallows.

References

• "The Healing Power of Chocolate;" Cal Orey; 2009
• National Confectioners Association: The History of Chocolate