10 Best Cocoa Powders 2025 in the United States

This Dutch processed cocoa powder from Modern Mountain is a great choice for anyone who enjoys baking or making rich chocolate drinks. Its fat content of 22-24% is higher than many regular cocoa powders, which means it delivers a deep, fudgy chocolate flavor and can make your cakes, brownies, and frostings taste extra luscious. Being Dutch processed, the cocoa powder has a smoother, less bitter taste compared to natural cocoa powders, making it easier to use in recipes without the harshness some other powders might have. The powder’s color is typically darker due to the Dutch process, which also helps with mellow flavor and better solubility in batters and liquids.

It’s unsweetened, so you control the sweetness in your recipes, and it’s gluten free and non-GMO, which suits a range of dietary needs. Another plus is that it’s Fair Trade certified, so it supports ethical sourcing. One thing to keep in mind is that Dutch processed cocoa powders react differently with leavening agents compared to natural ones, so you should follow recipes meant for Dutch cocoa to get the best rise and texture.

For those seeking a premium, versatile cocoa powder that’s rich in flavor and ethically sourced, this product is a fitting option. It’s especially good for bakers who want a bold chocolate taste without bitterness and appreciate quality ingredients.

Droste Cocoa Powder Unsweetened is an 8.80-ounce product, sold in a case of 12, making it a good bulk option for frequent cocoa users. Since it is unsweetened, it offers versatility in recipes, allowing you to control the sweetness.

This cocoa powder is known for its rich, deep flavor, suitable for baking and hot beverages, providing a robust chocolate taste. Its dark color indicates a high-quality Dutch-processed cocoa, which tends to be less acidic and smoother in taste compared to natural cocoa. Solubility is generally good with Dutch-processed cocoa, making it easy to mix into liquids without clumping.

This product would be highly beneficial for home bakers, cooks, and anyone who frequently uses cocoa powder in their cooking or baking.

Ghirardelli's Sweet Ground Dark Chocolate & Cocoa Powder is a versatile and rich cocoa option that stands out for its deep, dark chocolate flavor. This product comes in a substantial 3-pound can, which is ideal for those who frequently use cocoa powder in their recipes or beverages. The package also includes a Ghirardelli-stamped barista spoon, which is a nice touch for those who enjoy crafting drinks at home.

One of the strengths of this cocoa powder is its solubility. It mixes easily with liquids like water and milk, as well as batters, making it a convenient choice for both hot drinks like hot chocolate and mochas, and for baking needs such as cakes, brownies, or cheesecakes. The flavor profile is specifically dark chocolate, which may be appealing to those who prefer a more intense chocolate taste compared to regular cocoa powders.

However, the product does have some drawbacks. Being a sweet ground cocoa powder, it may not suit those looking for a traditional unsweetened cocoa powder, often used in recipes that require controlling sugar content. The fat content is not specified, which could be a consideration for health-conscious consumers or those needing specific fat content levels for certain recipes. Additionally, the dark color might not be preferable for every recipe, particularly if a lighter cocoa is desired.

This cocoa powder is well-suited for chocolate enthusiasts who enjoy dark chocolate flavors in their drinks and baked goods and those who value ease of mixing. Its versatility and rich taste make it a great addition to a home baker's pantry, but it's important to note if a sweeter cocoa is suitable for your needs.