TOP-30 best cocoa: types, tips for choosing, reviews

Cocoa is a small tree from which seeds are obtained, and from which, in turn, cocoa is obtained. It is appreciated not only for its taste, but also for its breadth of use, primarily in the confectionery industry. Its health properties are also important. How to choose high-quality cocoa, which is a storehouse of vitamins and minerals, as well as has antioxidant properties? The article will tell you about the types, prices and rules for selecting a product and present a rating of the best cocoa according to experts and customer reviews.

Cocoa selection criteria

Cocoa is a dark brown powder made from cocoa seeds. They are cleaned, sorted, fried, crushed and degreased. The cocoa fat that is produced during the process is cocoa butter that is widely used in cosmetology and cooking. Cocoa has many beneficial properties, so it is recommended to use it in moderation during diets. In this case, it is important to choose the classic version of cocoa without sugar.

When choosing good quality cocoa, you should pay attention to the composition of the product. Many cheap instant drink options contain a high concentration of additives such as flavors, sugar, salt, calcium carbonate. The best cocoa is the one that has no additives and is high in cocoa beans. The darker and richer the color of the powder, the better. In addition, it must have an extremely bitter taste and strong aroma. Raw unprocessed cocoa in whole grain or powder form is ideal. A granular drink is often found on sale - it is less intense in taste and color, there are sweeteners in the composition. This is done in order to drink cocoa with milk, as children love. Granulated cocoa contains no more than 10% of real bitter cocoa.

Cocoa types

Cocoa varies depending on where it was grown, weather conditions, soil, and the methods used to ferment and dry the beans. The taste and aroma of the product is influenced by the type of trees, the composition and quality of the soil, the weather and the altitude. Cocoa beans sourced from the same tree can vary significantly in flavor.

There are 3 main types of trees from which cocoa is obtained:

• Criollos - Its seeds are very valuable. The cocoa obtained from this tree is of high quality, and the tree itself is extremely sensitive to diseases and external factors. He is also called “the prince of cocoa”.
• Forastero is one of the most popular types of cocoa beans. The species is very hardy and disease resistant.
• Trinitario is a combined species that combines valuable flavoring qualities.

The best natural cocoa

Natural cocoa is made from organic plant-based cocoa beans. The important thing is that it is not machined. It contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, calcium, potassium, iron, copper. Technological processes reduce the nutritional value of the product because the highest quality grains have been dried.

The top list of the best natural cocoa includes the following manufacturers:

THEOBROMA

It is a product obtained from the processing of cocoa beans. Each sip of the drink will allow you to enjoy a soft, slightly bitter taste and feel a rich aroma. A glass of nutritious cocoa for breakfast will provide a burst of energy and strength for the whole day, and with regular use of the drink, it can affect the immune system, blood circulation, mental and physical abilities. Used in confectionery.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Italy
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	raw, natural
Fatness	10-12%

Testimonial: “I've tried different types of cocoa, but this one is the best. I did not have time to brew, as everyone is already running into the kitchen, the aroma is on the whole apartment. I made the right choice, even though the price bites a little ”.

Barry callebaut

Cocoa powder of this brand is 100% pure cocoa. African beans made the color and texture of the cocoa rich and flavorful. Thanks to the traditional recipe, cocoa is produced in accordance with all international norms and rules. Qualitatively crushed grains, easily combine with liquids, not only warm, but also cold, which will delight housewives when creating desserts, cookies, cakes and ice cream. Its unique taste makes it an indispensable attribute of any dish.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Belgium
Volume	0.4 kg
Additional Information	powder, cooking required
Fatness	22%

Testimonial: “My husband bought home cocoa. I have not used this brand before, I can say that it is very tasty. The pronounced taste makes you make another cup of the drink. I add to baked goods ”.

CANDY

Grated cocoa is rarely found in stores. This product is obtained by processing cocoa beans into cocoa butter. They are first fried at high temperatures, then crushed. This product is the basis for the production of confectionery. Its composition is 100% cocoa, which is free from dyes and preservatives. It is well absorbed by the body, increases efficiency, strengthens the immune system, and improves metabolic functions.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Armenia
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	cocoa liquor
Fatness	12%

Feedback: “Natural and high quality product. My wife and I bought it on the Internet, now we drink instead of tea. One spoon is enough to make a rich and aromatic drink. My wife sometimes throws in muffins and other baked goods. ”

PRIMACAO

High quality cocoa powder, which is made exclusively from fresh and selected cocoa beans, which have been fermented in advance. This type of product differs from its predecessors in its consistency. It can be mixed with classic powder and added to confectionery, but it is recommended to use it in its pure form for the drink. This is the only way to enjoy its taste.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Bulgaria
Volume	0.5KG
Additional Information	cocoa powder, not alkalized
Fatness	10-12%

Review: “A friend brought cocoa from abroad. I have never been a particular fan of this product. But when she brewed me some cocoa with milk, I immediately changed my mind. It was not so tasty for me. Now I ask her to bring me cocoa as often as possible. ”

Ecuador

Natural cocoa powder made from unroasted cocoa beans. Manufacturing technology allows you to store all nutrients and minerals at their best. Ideal for preparing hot drinks and chocolate. The beneficial substances that are retained after processing have a positive effect on the immune system and human mood, thought processes, and physical activity. The manufacturer has created an individual packaging design, several volume options for comfortable use.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Ecuador
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	grated in chunks, from unroasted beans
Fatness	15%

Testimonial: “I bought it in a cocoa store, recently appeared. I bought it for baking, but decided to try it as a drink. I liked the taste very much, I do it for children with milk, I can't pull it off by the ears. A quality and tasty product ”.

Royal

Natural cocoa powder is made from the elite Criollo beans. Has a pleasant and rich chocolate taste. Premium quality product. Its composition includes only natural ingredients rich in antioxidants. One spoon of the product is enough to brew an exquisite drink. Well suited for homemade confectionery, drinks, natural chocolate.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Colombia
Volume	0.2KG
Additional Information	natural cocoa powder for cooking
Fatness	20-22%

Review: “We bought cocoa in a supermarket, I decided to brew it. It quickly dissolved in water, it tastes like hot chocolate. It is convenient to use when baking, because its color becomes more chocolate, rich. "

Idigo

Cocoa product is made from ripe cocoa beans. They contain a large amount of antioxidants, some of them have special properties that are very beneficial for the body. It is recommended to include it in the diet of young children, the elderly to maintain the tone of the body. With active mental activity and physical work, this product should be the basis of the diet.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Russia
Volume	0.1 kg
Additional Information	conventionally ground cocoa
Fatness	12%

Review: “I bought some cocoa for the kids for breakfast. I really like the taste and smell, completely harmless to babies. I brew daily with cookies. The children are happy, and so is the mother. ”

Nikitich

Cocoa has a characteristic aroma and taste, without unnecessary flavors and dyes. Finely ground beans have antioxidant properties that help improve blood circulation. Due to the low level of caffeine, even children are allowed to consume it. The active substances that are part of the product increase a person's working capacity, stimulate mental activity, and improve physical indications. Cocoa with milk is the best option for depression.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Russia
Volume	0.1 kg
Additional Information	beans without roasting, ground into powder
Fatness	10%

Feedback: “As a cocoa lover, I really liked the product. True, I have to add sugar, because I like very sweet things. Satisfied with the taste. I got a good drink for a good price. ”

Pure cocoa

The cocoa product is manufactured using German technology and fully meets international standards. Beans from Vietnam are used for production. The manufacturer has created a wide range of flavors, so the buyer can choose the right option for himself. It is used for preparing cold drinks, as well as ingredients for baked goods, sweets and desserts. The intense color is reminiscent of real chocolate.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	France
Volume	0.2KG
Additional Information	dark chocolate powder
Fatness	20-22%

Review: “Cocoa was brought from the Dominican Republic. It comes in many variations, but we chose it without any additives. We drink instead of coffee. It is a very tasty, healthy product that improves mental activity ”.

Ivory Coast

Cocoa powder is intended for the preparation of hot drinks. An exquisite variety of ultra-finely ground cocoa beans gives the product a special rich taste and aroma, and a slight bitterness adds piquancy. Manufacturers have worked on packaging design to create not only taste, but also aesthetic pleasure. Cocoa dissolves quickly in water, does not form a sludge and is generally used in home and industrial baking.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Netherlands
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	cocoa liquor
Fatness	53%

Review: “As soon as I saw this brand of cocoa in the store, I immediately bought it. I love it very much for its unique composition, light bitterness. The husband loves with milk, just like the children. A quality product that deserves attention ”.

Best Instant Cocoa

Instant cocoa is made similarly to natural cocoa, but undergoes technological processing at high temperatures. It retains useful properties that have a positive effect on the body. Before buying cocoa, you need to make sure that it is regular cocoa powder, and not cocoa mix, which contains a huge amount of sugar.

The rating of the best instant cocoa includes the following manufacturers:

Carraro cacao amaro

Bitter, instant cocoa powder is widely used in beverage preparation and the culinary arts. The drink has a pleasant, rich taste, its aroma can be heard over long distances. Consumers are very interested in the brand of this product, so the manufacturer has created a wide range of tastes, different package sizes. Easy to brew. Can be used alone or with various additives.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Italy
Volume	0.25 kg
Additional Information	dark chocolate instant powder
Fatness	27%

Review: “In search of good and high-quality cocoa, I tried many flavors, but chose this type. Attracted by the rich chocolate aroma. Mixed in different proportions, both with water and milk, it dissolves perfectly, does not settle ”.

Munne

High quality instant cocoa product made from selected cocoa varieties. It contains: sugar, leticin, salt, vanillin and beans. The powder is made from the chocolate tree. To begin with, the fruits are cut down, then manually split into small chips and dried. After such processing, cocoa acquires the desired aroma and taste. This product will delight you with a thick aroma with delicious sweet notes.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Dominican Republic
Volume	0.25 kg
Additional Information	instant
Fatness	17-19%

Feedback: “We decided to replace the usual coffee with cocoa. I will say that the experiment was a success. I feel much better than coffee. Delicious, sweet drink for every day ”.

Van houten

This cocoa brand will bring chocolate notes to the gray and boring everyday life. It contains 16% cocoa, which has a rich texture and unique taste.The product is based on international standards and meets all quality criteria. The balanced composition will appeal to sweet lovers. To taste, it can be supplemented with nuts, marshmallows or original syrup. Special taste criteria are revealed if the product is brewed in milk.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Sweden
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	instant cocoa powder
Fatness	12%

Review: “The old coffee ran out, and I had to be puzzled by the new packaging. I wanted to meet a smaller amount, but not lose much of the quality of the product. I took this brand of cocoa and did not regret it, I really liked it. The taste and aroma are amazing. Now I will take it on a permanent basis ”.

Monbana

The cocoa of this brand is a product with a rich history, because very soon the company will cross its 100-year mark. This fact could not but affect the quality of the goods. Monbana is created from exclusive hand-picked beans. Its taste contains delicate notes of cream, and a slight bitterness makes it spicy. This product will appeal even to those who were not previously a fan of cocoa. Perfect for reading your favorite book with a hot drink.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Italy
Volume	0.2KG
Additional Information	coarse powder
Fatness	11%

Feedback: “I bought a convenient package. I love to collect all sorts of jars, bottles. Cocoa lasts for several months. It is very easy to drink, especially after a hard day at work. ”

Nesquik Opti-Start

A glass of cocoa drink for breakfast will help the child to quickly cheer up, and in combination with milk - get a dose of useful minerals and vitamins that contribute to the beneficial activity of the body throughout the day. It includes OPTI-START - a special complex of vitamins that make milk even healthier, giving the baby the necessary substances for healthy growth and development. It also has iron, zinc and potassium.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Hungary
Volume	0.38 kg
Additional Information	instant powder
Fatness	20%

Testimonial: “My kids are asked to do Nesquik every morning. For many years we have been drinking this particular drink. Sweet, dissolves quickly, pleasant chocolate aftertaste. A great option not only for children, but also for adults. "

Sunfood

Cocoa powder is made from the finest cocoa beans. Thanks to the cold pressing process, the amount of fat is significantly reduced. With all this, the beneficial properties of the product and the natural taste of raw beans are preserved. Organic food is incredibly healthy food that is rich in minerals and contributes to normal growth and development, and a strengthening of the nervous system. Cocoa can be brewed with water, milk and even yogurt.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	USA
Volume	0.45 kg
Additional Information	organic cocoa powder
Fatness	9%

Review: “My husband and I switched to proper nutrition. We treat the choice of products with extreme caution. Therefore, we chose an organic drink with no additives. Easy to drink, saturates with vitamins and microelements. Very like".

DGF Extra-Noir

The cocoa powder contains 12% cocoa butter.It has a rich taste and aroma, and its intense black color cannot leave indifferent lovers of exquisite products. The product is popular in the confectionery business for creating a rich dark color for culinary masterpieces. To soften the taste, you just need to mix it with another type of cocoa or milk. Produced by a famous French company.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	France
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	instant powder
Fatness	10-12%

Review: “I used another cocoa before, but it was advised in the store. Itself not a fan of this drink, but children love it very much. I decided to brew it - the aroma was for the whole apartment, better than coffee, I tried it very much. We have been drinking for 3 months already, a very large package ”.

Cacao barry plein arome

Cocoa powder with a distinct taste. Its peculiarity is the rich color and aroma of roasted beans. The alkalized powder helps to cover the truffles with quality and uniformity. Alkalization helps to lower the acidity of the product, destroys the bitter and sour taste, and also speeds up the cooking procedure, without first boiling the liquid. It is widely used in cooking.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	France
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	alkalized powder
Fatness	22-24%

Review: “We bought cocoa to make chocolates. The result is very tasty sweets, with a slight bitterness, a pleasure for tea. The cocoa texture is very pleasant, dissolves easily with cold ingredients. ”

Julius Meinl Kakao-Mix

Classic cocoa powder that has a slightly tart taste with a tangible bitterness, which gives the product a special charm and piquancy. In combination with water, you can get a spicy, rich drink. Add milk - and a creamy note appears in it, which is ideal for desserts. There are different types of hot drink. It has a uniform consistency, without lumps and impurities.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Austria
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	chocolate cocoa drink
Fatness	12%

Testimonial: “I fell in love with this cocoa company from the first spoon. For the first time I tried cocoa at a party, then I decided to buy myself. I really like the chocolate taste, as I myself am a chocolate lover. I add to baked goods. "

Bourbon

A novelty on the domestic market is a hearty and tasty Japanese drink. The dairy component of the product gives it a delicate taste, calorie content and enriches the body with calcium. Sold in small portions. This is a great alternative for breakfast for a person who needs energy and strength for the whole day. Cocoa beans saturate the food with nutrients. The pleasant texture of cocoa, which dissolves easily in cold liquids, is to the liking of not only little ones, but also adults.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Japan
Volume	0.24 kg
Additional Information	instant cocoa with milk
Fatness	10-12%

Feedback: “We couldn't choose cocoa for a long time and decided to try it. I brew in milk, I do not add sweeteners, as it is already sweet. Easy to drink, kids ask for supplements. I will not say what is useful, but tasty if you drink it in small doses ”.

The best cocoa for baking

Cocoa is a product that complements cakes and other sweet baked goods. Ideal for cakes, toppings, desserts and drinks. Chefs use the product for other dishes as well - the bitter taste goes well with beef, duck and pork. It doesn't matter which dish the cocoa will be added to, it is important what quality it is.

The list of manufacturers who make the best cocoa for baking is headed by the following brands:

Equal Exchange Organic

This popular chocolate hot cocoa is made using organic cocoa (cocoa beans) grown by Conacado farmers in the Dominican Republic, sugarcane from smallholder farmers in Paraguay, and organic milk powder in the United States. This is a fairly popular treat that is easy to make. The drink is tasty and rich in taste with a light creamy aftertaste.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	USA
Volume	0.34 kg
Additional Information	cocoa powder
Fatness	10%

Review: “I really liked the cocoa, dense in texture. I brew 2 tablespoons per mug of milk. Reminiscent of hot chocolate. Relaxes better than a hot bath. ”

IRCA

Premium natural alkalized product has a pronounced taste and delicate chocolate aroma. Has a rich color with a reddish tint, which does not fade during the preparation of cakes, cookies, desserts. Practical packaging, high fat content of the product makes it extremely popular among chefs and home-baked lovers. Suitable for decorating and giving a pleasant taste to sweets.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Italy
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	alkalized powder
Fatness	22-24%

Testimonial: “I am professionally engaged in baking. For work I use cocoa of this brand, as it showed itself very well during baking and in cold desserts. Fine grinding helps to dissolve the product effectively, even in very cold milk. The result is beautiful, rich baked goods. ”

Dr. Oetker

Cocoa from a German manufacturer is ideal for any baking, both at home and in a professional kitchen. The color, dark with a reddish tint, guarantees an excellent result for any product. It goes well with hot drinks and cold desserts. A quality product that contains 22% cocoa butter. The product is used in various variations: for mutedness or vice versa for richness of tastes.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Germany
Volume	0.5KG
Additional Information	cocoa powder
Fatness	22,5%

Testimonial: “I use cocoa for icing on cake, eclairs and other goodies. It dissolves easily, has a pronounced chocolate taste, fits well on the finished product ”.

ROYAL FOREST

Cocoa powder is made from elite Criollo cocoa beans. Has a pleasant chocolate aftertaste. The product is rich in antioxidants. It is widely used in confectionery on a professional level and at home. It contains no flavors and preservatives, so the product is considered completely organic. Aesthetic packaging, a variety of flavors will not leave indifferent connoisseurs of exquisite drinks.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Colombia
Volume	0.2KG
Additional Information	soluble
Fatness	12%

Feedback: “We ordered cocoa on the Internet. This is my favorite drink. I want to say that the choice did not disappoint, delicate taste, easy to prepare, but a slight bitterness is present only it rather adds piquancy. Sometimes I add it to baked goods. "

Russia Generous soul

The product contains 70% cocoa, which will delight connoisseurs of drinks with a rich taste. The natural ingredients of the product make it look more attractive. It is quickly brewed with milk or water, used for baking or decorating, making homemade chocolate or cold desserts. This delicious and nutritious product will fill the child with strength and energy before the start of the day.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Russia
Volume	0.1 kg
Additional Information	cocoa powder
Fatness	7%

Review: “Russia Generous Soul is my favorite product brand. It has always been distinguished by its high quality, which includes cocoa. I use the product for truffles and their sprinkles. They come out very rich, bitter, delicious home-style. "

Organica for all Criollo

It is an ideal alternative to industrial cocoa. It is used to make smoothies, hot chocolate, and other nutritious drinks. The product is included in the diet of connoisseurs of healthy food and vegetarians. Very tasty homemade cakes and sweets are made from cocoa of this brand. It is prepared on the basis of water, milk of various varieties or yogurt. Produced from rare varieties of Criollo cocoa bean.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Peru
Volume	0.15 kg
Additional Information	organic raw cocoa powder
Fatness	20-22%

Review: “Delicious organic cocoa. I use it not as a brew, but in its raw form - I make homemade sweets. Fly away from the table in a matter of minutes. I like the tart taste, no sweeteners or colors. ”

Mehmet efendi kurukahveci

Turkish cocoa is made from first-class Dutch beans. It is very finely ground and has a rich aroma and pleasant taste. The Turkish drink is produced according to an ancient Dutch recipe, which results in a high quality liquid with spicy notes. It is used in the culinary business in the preparation of various drinks, both cold and hot.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Turkey
Volume	0.25 kg
Additional Information	fine cocoa powder
Fatness	17-19%

Feedback: “I have known this brand for a long time and I buy only this brand of cocoa. Repeatedly added to cakes - the cakes are made dark brown, with a chocolate flavor. I brew for children based on milk. ”

Fine life

Cocoa powder is made from the well-known Theobroma tree, which is popularly called the Chocolate Tree. The plant is found in tropical regions around the globe. The beans give the cocoa a rich brown color that is easy to cook with milk or water. It contains no sugar, flavor enhancers, so if the drink seems too strong, you can add a few tablespoons of sugar. Has a chocolatey taste and a pleasant aroma.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Russia
Volume	0.3KG
Additional Information	cocoa powder
Fatness	10-12%

Testimonial: “After drinking another type of cocoa it seems very strong and tart, but from the 2nd mug this feeling disappears. The main thing is to brew correctly - if you want a more delicate taste, you need to add milk, more tart - more cocoa ”.

S. Pudov

Domestic cocoa has a rich color and pleasant aroma. The high quality product is on par with all well-known foreign brands. Cocoa preparation technology allows you to preserve useful substances and vitamins in it. A good option to emphasize the sophistication of homemade baked goods, to spice up a hot or cold drink. A large package is enough for a long period of use.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Russia
Volume	1 kg
Additional Information	cocoa powder
Fatness	15%

Review: “I buy cocoa for kids. I brew milk in coconut - this is how the whole taste of cocoa and its pleasant aroma are revealed. Children are energized for the whole day, and I also like to have a cup or another. It has shown itself well in baking ”.

Caffarel

A high quality cocoa brand with a beautiful dark brown color and delicate aroma. Suitable for making cocoa, hot drinks, pastries. The company occupies a leading position in the market, produces high quality confectionery products. It contains vitamins of group B, C, A, as well as iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. A cup of aromatic drink can make the day better than the previous one, more vigorous and more energetic.

Characteristic	Meaning
Manufacturer country	Italy
Volume	0.2KG
Additional Information	cocoa powder
Fatness	20-22%

Review: “Real natural cocoa, easy to drink and brew, sometimes lumps come across, but they quickly dissolve. I prepare a drink in water, it turns out strong with a bitterness, I add milk to the children. The muffins turn out to be dark brown, a beautiful icing for the cake, rich in color. In all respects, only pluses ”.

Benefit and harm

Cocoa contains high levels of flavonoids that effectively fight cancer cells. They protect the body from stress, and a large amount of antioxidants help keep the skin young and beautiful. The product contains magnesium, which is responsible for the healthy state of the circulatory system, regulates cholesterol levels, and protects against blood clots. Due to the presence of endorphin-like phenylethylamine, mood and well-being are improved. It acts as an aphrodisiac that determines the level of arousal and desire.

Caffeine has a stimulating effect. Do not forget that its level is much lower than in coffee. Minerals such as silicon, zinc, magnesium reduce fatigue and increase concentration. Theobromine found in cocoa is effective in treating coughs. Widespread in the field of cosmetology. Vitamin E has a firming, cleansing effect on the skin.

However, there are also contraindications to use. Due to its caffeine content, the product is not recommended for people with hypertension. Before buying, you need to familiarize yourself with the composition, because many manufacturers produce a cocoa product with a high content of additives that can cause side reactions.

Cocoa is a very tasty, popular nutritional supplement that contains nutrients.You should not deny yourself your favorite delicacy, because in the right doses it will not harm your health, but, on the contrary, will enrich you with vitamins and minerals. Body and health will be in good shape if you choose high-quality dark, bitter cocoa.