Used in baking for chocolate cakes or muffins

Used in baking for chocolate cakes or muffins recipe videos

Cocoa powder is a finely ground, unsweetened powder made from roasted cacao beans, the essential ingredient that gives chocolate cakes and muffins their deep, rich flavor. It is typically made by pressing chocolate liquor to remove most of the cocoa butter, then grinding the remaining solids. This staple ingredient originates from Mesoamerica, where cacao was first cultivated.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Cocoa powder is low in carbohydrates and protein but very high in fat, primarily from the remaining cocoa butter. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber and provides key minerals like iron, magnesium, and copper.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	46 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbs	11 g
Fat	1 g
Fiber	7 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	5 mg
Iron	1.8 mg
Magnesium	64 mg
Copper	0.5 mg
Manganese	0.6 mg
Phosphorus	98 mg
Zinc	0.9 mg
Potassium	220 mg
Theobromine	129 mg

Per 1/4 cup (21 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Unlike many baking ingredients, cocoa powder is packed with powerful antioxidants called flavonoids, which are linked to various health benefits. Its intense flavor means a small amount goes a long way in transforming baked goods.