Equal Exchange, Organic Baking Cocoa, 8 oz (224 g)(PACK 1)
By: Cake Decorating School
Amy Chan from cakedecoratingschool.com discusses the difference between cocoa powder and instant hot cocoa mix, highlighting that many seem to be unaware of the distinction. She explains that cocoa powder, the dry solids from cocoa beans with minimal fat content, is used in baking desserts like cookies, brownies, and rich chocolate cakes. It provides deep chocolate flavor to baked goods. Dutch processed cocoa, a variety of cocoa powder with a slight addition of alkaline to neutralize the acid, is also mentioned.
On the other hand, instant hot cocoa mix is a blend of powdered chocolate or cocoa powder, sugar or artificial sweeteners, milk powders, and various stabilizers and thickeners. It is typically reconstituted with hot water or milk for a quick cup of hot cocoa. However, she encourages making homemade hot chocolate using basic cocoa powder and a bit of sugar for a healthier option free of unnecessary additives. Amy strongly suggests having a good supply of cocoa powder, considering it the foundation for instant hot cocoa mix and versatile in various culinary applications.