Unsweetened Baking Chocolate Squares
Unsweetened baking chocolate squares are a versatile and rich ingredient commonly used in a variety of desserts and baking applications. Known for their intense chocolate flavor and low sweetness, they are a preferred choice for those looking to control the sugar content in their recipes. This ingredient is typically made from cocoa mass, cocoa butter, and sometimes additional stabilizers, without any added sugars, making it the perfect base for rich chocolate cakes, cookies, and brownies.
Nutritional Breakdown of Unsweetened Baking Chocolate Squares (per 100g):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 642 kcal |
| Protein | 14.32 g |
| Total Fat | 52.31 g |
| Saturated Fat | 32.28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28.42 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 16.6 g |
| Sugars | 0.91 g |
| Calcium | 101 mg |
| Iron | 17.4 mg |
| Magnesium | 327 mg |
| Phosphorus | 400 mg |
| Potassium | 830 mg |
| Sodium | 24 mg |
| Zinc | 9.63 mg |
| Copper | 3.23 mcg |
| Manganese | 4.17 mg |
| Selenium | 8.1 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0 mg |
| Thiamin (B1) | 0.147 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.1 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.36 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.027 mg |
| Folate (B9) | 28 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 0 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.4 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0 mcg |
Allergen Information:
- Allergens: May contain traces of dairy, nuts, and gluten, depending on the processing environment and any cross-contamination.
- Important Note: Always check the label for specific allergen warnings, especially for those with sensitivities to milk or nuts.
Dietary Preferences:
- Vegan-Friendly: Yes, as long as the chocolate is made without any dairy-based additives.
- Gluten-Free: Yes, baking chocolate itself is typically gluten-free, but always check for cross-contamination during processing.
- Keto-Friendly: Yes, with low sugars and high fat content, making it a suitable choice for ketogenic diets.
- Low-Sugar Diets: Ideal for those following low-sugar or sugar-free diets, as unsweetened baking chocolate contains negligible amounts of sugar.
Advice for Using Unsweetened Baking Chocolate:
Unsweetened baking chocolate is a must-have for any serious baker, as its pure chocolate essence elevates the flavor of your desserts. However, since it lacks sweetness, you will need to balance it out with an appropriate amount of sweetener (sugar, honey, or other substitutes) when preparing recipes. Keep in mind that using this chocolate in recipes with milk or butter will result in a rich, smooth texture, while dark chocolate recipes can have a slightly more intense and robust flavor. This ingredient is also great for making your own chocolate bars or homemade chocolate sauces.
Conclusion:
Unsweetened baking chocolate squares are an essential ingredient in any bakerβs pantry, offering versatility, rich flavor, and a range of nutritional benefits. Whether you’re making cookies, cakes, or any other chocolate-based dessert, this ingredient allows you to customize the sweetness and cocoa intensity to your liking. It’s packed with beneficial nutrients such as magnesium, iron, and fiber, while being low in sugar, making it a great option for those following a variety of dietary preferences.
