Ingredient hub

Cocoa Powder (Unsweetened)

Cocoa powder is notorious for compacting. A cup measured by 'scooping' can weigh up to 100g, while a 'spooned' cup weighs about 85g. This 15% excess makes brownies dry and chalky. Weighing your cocoa guarantees that moist, fudgy texture every time.

Essential for chocolate cakes, brownies, frostings, and hot cocoa. The type of cocoa can affect how it reacts with leavening agents like baking soda.

Storage & tools

• Refrigerate perishable foods within 2 hours (1 hour if above 90°F/32°C).
• Keep the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C).
• Cool hot foods in shallow containers so they chill faster and more safely.
• Use an appliance thermometer to verify fridge and freezer temperatures.

Store in an airtight container in a cool, dark, and dry place to preserve its potent flavor.

Sources: CDC · FDA

FAQ

Dutch Processed vs. Natural Cocoa: Does weight change?

The density is similar, but the chemistry isn't. Dutch is neutral; Natural is acidic. While 100g weighs the same, check your recipe to ensure your leavening agent (soda vs powder) matches the cocoa type.

All conversions for this ingredient

• Cup → g /en/convert/cocoa_powder/cup-to-grams/
• g → Cups /en/convert/cocoa_powder/grams-to-cups/
• Tbsp → g /en/convert/cocoa_powder/tbsp-to-grams/
• Tsp → g /en/convert/cocoa_powder/tsp-to-grams/
• mL → g /en/convert/cocoa_powder/ml-to-grams/
• oz → g /en/convert/cocoa_powder/oz-to-grams/