Baking chocolate, also called bitter chocolate, is a type of unsweetened chocolate used primarily in cooking and baking. It is made from cocoa solids and cocoa butter, with about 50% of each by weight. Unlike regular chocolate, it contains little to no sugar, giving it a bold and intensely bitter flavour.
This chocolate is ideal for recipes where sweetness is added separately, such as cakes, brownies, and sauces. Its strong cocoa taste makes it a key ingredient in many desserts, providing a rich depth of flavour that balances well with sugar and other ingredients.
Some brands of baking chocolate may include a small amount of sugar, but they are still much less sweet than milk or dark chocolate. This slight sweetness can make them easier to work with in certain recipes while still maintaining their intended bitter profile.
When using baking chocolate, it’s often melted before being combined with other ingredients. Its high cocoa butter content helps it melt smoothly, making it perfect for creating ganache, chocolate glazes, or silky cake batters. It can also be finely chopped and added to baked goods for a burst of chocolate flavour.
Baking chocolate has a long shelf life when stored properly. Keeping it in a cool, dry place away from strong odours ensures it remains fresh and ready for your next recipe. Because it lacks added sugar and milk solids, it’s less prone to spoilage than sweeter chocolates.
For anyone who enjoys baking, keeping a supply of baking chocolate is essential. Its versatility and concentrated cocoa flavour make it a staple in kitchens around the world, beloved by home cooks and professional chefs alike.
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