Types of Chocolate - Everything You Need to Know

The different types of chocolate available make this treat enjoyable by everyone. From kids to adults, everyone has a favorite type. Whether it’s dark chocolate or milk chocolate or even white chocolate, each type is equally delectable and delightful. Because they are different, each one of them caters to people of different taste palates. For example, some people love the melt-in-your-mouth texture of white chocolate while others love the indulgence of dark chocolate. And how can we forget the ever-creamy milk chocolate. There is so much for you to know about the different kinds of chocolate. So, keep reading…

Types of Chocolate to Try
Types	Cocoa	Taste	Texture
Milk Chocolate	Moderate	Milky	Creamy
Dark Chocolate	High	Bitter	Thick
White Chocolate	Low	Sweet	Sugary
Bittersweet Chocolate	High	Too Bitter	Too Thick
Cocoa Powder	Varies	Varies	Powdery
Ruby Chocolate	Moderate	Sweet, Fruity	Creamy

What Are the Different Types of Chocolate?

All of us know what are the main types of chocolate. Don’t we? They are white, milk and dark chocolate. These are available in different forms in the market. Moreover, you can find them in chocolate gift boxes, chocolate bars and so much more. In fact, you can even get fruits and nuts covered in these chocolates. However, you don’t know that there are so many different types of chocolate out there. Don’t worry; we are here to talk about them all! From dark to white and the less popular variants, we will cover them all. And hey, this blog is going to make you crave sweet treats, so you better grab some chocolate toffee before you begin with sweet ride.

What Is Chocolate Liquor and How Is It Made?

This is not the name of an alcohol. In fact, it’s the base of all chocolates. Yes, that’s right! The key ingredient of all chocolates – white, milk or dark – is the same. Moreover, it is also known as unsweetened chocolate because it is 100% cocoa and no other ingredients. You should also know that it’s a dark brown paste with a thick consistency. Besides, it’s made from cocoa nibs that are found inside of cocoa beans. These cacao nibs are ground into a smooth paste. Furthermore, chocolate makers turn this liquid into different shapes of chocolates, from bars to chips and whatnot.

Did You Know?

Chocolate liquor paste separates into cocoa butter and cocoa solids under high pressure. Both these are used in different chocolate products.

Because of the name, people often confuse it with alcohol. However, liquor is just in the name. Besides, chocolate liquor is a wonderous product. After all, it lays foundation for so many delectable treats.

What Makes Milk Chocolate the Most Popular Type?

Undoubtedly, milk chocolate is the most popular of them all. Among all the different types of chocolates, this one has the largest fan base. Milk chocolate is the CLASSIC and there will be hardly anyone who doesn’t like it. Because of such huge popularity, it has become the most commonly produced commercial chocolate. Moreover, milk chocolate is known for its light brown color, sweet flavor and creamy texture. Furthermore, it offers the dreamy experience that’s unmatched by any other sweet treat. 

“Milk chocolate must contain at least 10% chocolate liquor and 12% milk. High deviations from this amount will alter the flavor and texture of the chocolate.” – FDA

It’s not too bitter, not too sweet – just the perfect flavor you look in a chocolate. After all, it’s in between white and dark chocolate. It’s softer and sweeter than dark chocolate but not as sweet and soft as white chocolate. So, it’s the best choice for your chocolate covered nuts among all the other types. What’s more milk chocolate has a shelf life of around 16 months. Also, people love to use it in baking. It is so because it provides the perfectly creamy and sweet chocolate taste to the recipe.

What Makes Dark Chocolate a Favorite Among Chocolate Lovers?

You should know that dark chocolate is the second most popular type among different types of chocolate. People love it so much because of it’s rich, bittersweet taste and indulgent mouthfeel. Moreover, it is also called black or semisweet chocolate. Besides, dark chocolate offers so many health benefits. It’s good for your heart and even brain. Furthermore, it’s composition is quite simple consisting of only two ingredients: chocolate liquor and sugar. Sometimes, chocolatiers also add vanilla and lecithin for a texture and taste.

“Dark chocolate must have minimum of 15% chocolate liquor and can contain a maximum of 50%.” – FDA

Anyhow, the flavor profile of dark chocolate varies based on the cocoa content present in it. Remember that high-quality dark chocolate has no dairy in it. Therefore, the flavor is more indulgent as compared to milk chocolate. Besides, it’s texture is firmer and it’s not as creamy as milk or white chocolate. Those who are a fan of bittersweet flavors love dark chocolate. What’s more, dark chocolate has a shelf life of almost 20 months. It’s also widely used in several baked items. Besides, chefs use them in savory dishes as a flavor enhancer too.

Is White Chocolate Really Chocolate?

White chocolate stands out in the crowd because of its distinctive ivory color and creamy texture. When it comes to creaminess, it surely beats milk chocolate. The secret sauce behind the amazingness of white chocolate is its ingredients. It is made with sugar, cocoa butter, milk, vanilla, and lecithin. You should know that cocoa solids is what gives chocolate it’s brown color. And white chocolate doesn’t contain cocoa solids. Moreover, the high sugar content and cocoa butter in chocolate gives it its sweet and creamy texture. 

According to the US Food and Drug Administration, white chocolate must contain 20% cocoa content

Most people say that it tastes like vanilla or condense milk. Also, most people wonder if white chocolate is really chocolate. Here’s the answer: YES! After all, the main ingredients for this chocolate are derived from cacao beans. This means that white chocolate is one of the different types of chocolate and there is no doubt about it.

What Makes Bittersweet Chocolate Beneficial for Health?

Also known as extra-dark chocolate, bittersweet chocolate came into being when people started to learn more about cocoa content and their percentages. Because it proves to have more health benefits, bittersweet chocolate became more popular recently. In fact, most people say that you should eat dark chocolate with cocoa content of 70% is more beneficial for health than eating ordinary chocolate. This is the main reason why bittersweet chocolate’s popularity increased.

According to FDA definition of bittersweet chocolate, it must contain more than 35% chocolate liquor.

You should know that this type of chocolate typically has 50% cocoa content at least. Also, the sugar added in these chocolates is less than the other different types of chocolate. After all, it’s flavor has to take after it’s name. Apart from the bitter taste, you’ll experience a fruity tang and an earthy aftertaste too. 

What Are the Different Types of Cocoa Powder and Their Properties?

When cocoa liquor undergoes high pressure, it separates into cocoa butter and cocoa cocoa solids. Afterward, these solids are crushed into a fine powder known as cocoa powder. Most people know it as a baking ingredient but are usually not aware of the fact it’s also a type of chocolate. It is so because it exists in powder form. However, people are habitual in seeing chocolate in solids state, usually a bar. Moreover, cocoa powder has two types: 

1. Natural Cocoa Powder
2. Dutch Processed Cocoa

Both types of cocoa powder have different properties. For example, natural cocoa has a light brown color, a strong taste and it’s acidic in nature. On the other hand, Dutch-processed cocoa is more on the alkalized side, has a deep, warm color and milder flavor as compared to its counterpart. Moreover, Dutch-processed cocoa powder is s preferred choice for baking. 

What Makes Ruby Chocolate Unique?

Most people think ruby chocolate is just white chocolate in ruby color. But this is oh-so-incorrect. It is one of the different types of chocolate. Furthermore, a Belgian chocolate maker invented it. So, you can tell how delectable it is going to be, just like other Belgian chocolates. Barry Callebaut is the one who created this unique yet delectable chocolate. Want to know the secret behind the enchanting red-pink color of this chocolate? Well, it’s because of its ingredients: ruby cocoa beans. Moreover, these beans are grown in the regions of Ecuador, Brazil, and the Ivory Coast.

There is no cocoa standard set by the FDA for ruby chocolate. However, it usually has 47.5% cocoa content and 26.3% milk.

When it comes to flavors, you can expect fruitiness and fresh sourness from this chocolate. This taste combined with milky creaminess and chocolatey goodness makes for a heavenly delight. And don’t get me started on how beautiful it looks – totally instagrammable!

Ending Thoughts!

Got done with reading about all the different types of chocolate? It was delightful, right? And why wouldn’t it be? After all, different chocolates offer a different taste and texture experience – all blissful in their own way. Whether you are picky about your sweets or a chocolate enthusiast, the above guide covers you for all the must-tries. Also, you will find different chocolate flavors in different shapes and forms for you to enjoy.