Home / Baking & Leavening / Cocoa powder
What can I use instead of cocoa powder?
Best substitute for 3 tbsp cocoa powder
3 tbsp Dutch-process cocoa
Dutch-process cocoa — 1:1; it's pH-neutral, adjust leavening.
tbsp
Amounts below are for 3 tbsp cocoa powder
3 substitutes for cocoa powder
| Substitute | Use this much | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Dutch-process cocoa | 3 tbsp Dutch-process cocoa | 1:1; it's pH-neutral, adjust leavening. |
| Cacao powder | 3 tbsp cacao powder | 1:1; more intense and raw. |
| Carob powder | 3 tbsp carob powder | Caffeine-free and naturally sweeter. |
Unsweetened cocoa powder adds deep chocolate flavor. Closely related powders swap 1:1, with small leavening tweaks.
Tips
- Natural and Dutch-process cocoa swap 1:1 but differ in pH - adjust baking soda or powder.
- Carob is sweeter, so cut a little sugar.
FAQ
- Can I use Dutch-process instead of natural cocoa?
- Yes 1:1, but they react differently with leaveners - adjust baking soda or powder.
- Is cacao powder the same as cocoa?
- Nearly - cacao is less processed and more intense; swap 1:1.