Semisweet Chocolate vs. Dark Chocolate
Semisweet chocolate is a type of dark chocolate. It falls along a continuum with three other types of dark chocolate: sweet, bittersweet and unsweetened. Despite this variety, the term "dark chocolate" usually refers to semisweet and bittersweet chocolate. Understanding the difference between semisweet chocolate and other types of dark chocolate can help you to avoid unwelcome surprises when trying out a new recipe, or unwrapping a gourmet candy bar. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definitions
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Unlike unsweetened dark chocolate, semisweet dark chocolate contains some sugar. It's generally sweeter than bittersweet chocolate but, as its name implies, not as sweet as sweet dark chocolate. However, the FDA doesn't regulate the amount of sugar in these forms of dark chocolate. Consequently, one manufacturer can label a product "semisweet," while a competitor labels an identically sweet product "bittersweet." Furthermore, European varieties of semisweet chocolate typically contain less sugar than their American counterparts; these imported semisweet chocolates tend to taste bittersweet to the American palate.
Ingredients
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The FDA specifies that sweetened dark chocolates -- whether bittersweet, semisweet or sweet -- must contain a minimum of 35 percent cacao. Also known as "liquor," cacao is a combination of the cocoa butter and solids extracted from the cacao bean. As the amount of cacao increases, the amount of sugar decreases. Most semisweet dark chocolates contain 40 to 65 percent cacao, whereas bittersweet varieties contain 60 to 85 percent cacao. Aside from cocoa butter, solids and sugar, sweetened forms of dark chocolate often contain lecithin, a fatty substance that helps to hold the product together. Dark chocolates may also contain vanilla, nuts, mint, caramel or even chili peppers.
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Uses
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Dark chocolate, particularly the sweet and semisweet types, is widely available in candy bars or individually wrapped treats. The semisweet, bittersweet and unsweetened varieties are common in baked goods, including confections, pastries and other desserts. Semisweet chocolate is a great choice for sauces, fillings, mousses and frosting. Additionally, the chocolate chips used in home-baked cookies and brownies typically consist of semisweet chocolate.
Flavor
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The more cacao chocolate contains, the richer its flavor is. Chocolates with a higher proportion of cacao have less sugar, so their sweetness doesn't overwhelm the palette. Therefore, bittersweet dark chocolate possesses a deeper, more robust flavor than semisweet or sweet dark chocolate. However, many people find plain, unsweetened dark chocolate too bitter, and accordingly use it only in recipes.
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References
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