Although the name is very similar, Cacao powder is not the same thing as the cocoa powder that you can often see on supermarket shelves. Cacao powder is the pure form of chocolate. It is made from the cacao tree and is minimally exposed to industrial processing. Besides boosting your body and mind, a daily serve of cacao powder may help to fight against free radicals.
Cacao powder contains high levels of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants which have been proven to reduce health issues such as high cholesterol. Cacao powder also contains iron and calcium making it a great option for pregnant women who often need to boost their intake to support their growing baby’s needs. It has been proven that cacao powder may help to reduce stress levels, aid in relaxation and improve our mood due to the level of magnesium it contains.
Here are some great ways to include cacao powder into your diet:
Breakfast smoothie
This will be sure to satisfy your chocolate cravings for the day. Blend along with frozen banana, almond milk (or any milk you prefer), fresh dates, natural peanut butter and some ice for a delicious filling breakfast option.
Rich Cacao Brownies
Forget about brownies from a box. Swap cocoa powder with raw cacao powder when making brownies for a rich chocolate flavour. If you like your brownies a little sweeter try to use sugar alternatives like stevia, coconut sugar or dates to reduce the intense taste of cacao powder.
Chocolate Banana Bread
Add cacao powder into your banana bread recipe for a rich chocolatey twist. Great to enjoy for morning or afternoon tea.
Raw Hot Choc
Perfect for when you feel like a hot chocolate but don’t want all the added sugar that comes with a lot of the packaged powder options. Heat your milk of your choice in a saucepan, whisk in 2 drops of vanilla extract, 1 tablespoons of cacao powder and bring to the boil. Pour into your favourite mug and enjoy!
Chocolate Oats
Mix Cacao powder into your oats while cooking, once ready top with banana, peanut butter and a sprinkle of more cacao powder for a double hit of chocolate.
Cacao powder is so versatile and can be incorporated into most baking recipes and raw dessert creations..
To view our range of cacao powder and other great superfoods, click here!