What Is Cacao Powder? Uses, Benefits & How It’s Made
Cacao powder is made from cacao beans that are fermented, dried, and cold-pressed at low temperatures, then milled into a fine powder. Because it’s minimally processed, it keeps more of the bean’s natural flavanols and minerals. Here’s exactly what cacao powder is, how it differs from cocoa, and how to use it.
How is cacao powder made?
Cacao beans are fermented and dried, then processed at low heat (often under 118°F/48°C) and pressed to remove some fat. What’s left is milled into cacao powder. The low temperature is the key – it preserves more antioxidants than the higher-heat roasting used for cocoa.
Cacao powder vs cocoa powder
Same bean, different processing. Cacao is raw/low-temp and more intense; cocoa is roasted and milder. See the full breakdown in cacao vs cocoa powder.
What are the benefits?
Pure cacao is naturally rich in flavanols (like epicatechin), fiber, iron, and magnesium. More in 8 health benefits of cacao.
How to use cacao powder
- Smoothies and wellness drinks
- Hot chocolate (unsweetened, you control the sugar)
- Baking – swap 1:1 for cocoa (a touch more bitter)
Choose single-origin, non-alkalized, lab-tested cacao. Grevista's cocoa is Trinitario from Vietnam, heavy-metal tested, and award-winning.
FAQ
Is cacao powder healthy? As part of a balanced diet, unsweetened cacao is a nutrient-dense, low-sugar choice.
Is cacao the same as cocoa? Same bean, less processing. Cacao keeps more flavanols.
Can I drink cacao daily? For most healthy adults, 1–2 servings a day is reasonable.
Related articles
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- Cocoa Powder vs Cacao Nibs: What's the Difference?
- Cocoa Powder vs Dark Chocolate: Which Is Better?
- Dutch Process Cocoa Powder: What It Is and When to Use It
Ready to choose one? Here’s how to pick the best cacao powder.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.