Combining dark chocolate with coffee is a brilliant idea and has been around for quite some time.
But, it’s not always easy to find the right chocolate-coffee balance. How can you use dark chocolate in coffee to your advantage?
You can add dark chocolate to coffee, resulting in a rich, complex, and very delicious flavor. The sweetness of the chocolate adds a wonderful layer to the flavor of the coffee with each sip. It adds a bit of creaminess to every sip as well.
In this article, I’ll explain how to use dark chocolate in coffee and how the process will get your creative juices flowing.
Dark chocolate in coffee, why should you try it?
If you love chocolate and you enjoy hot drinks, then you’ll love the latest trend of putting dark chocolate in coffee.
Dark chocolate actually gives your coffee a certain sweetness that you can’t achieve with milk chocolate.
And if you’re a chocoholic who likes to experiment with your coffee, the dark chocolate in coffee is one combination you need to try.
Even if you’re not the biggest fan of dark chocolate or coffee, the combination will be the best of both worlds, resulting in a flavor combination that is perfect for any time of the day.
Is coffee with chocolate a good combination?
Yes, it is a good combination. The robust flavors from the coffee help to counterbalance the sweetness of chocolate and makes for a slightly sweeter and more delicious cup of joe.
However, it’s really a matter of taste. If you like the taste of coffee and dark chocolate, then, by all means, try it!
Just be prepared for some people to find your taste odd. On the other hand, if you don’t want coffee with chocolate, then perhaps this isn’t the best option for you.
There is no shortage of combinations out there, so if this isn’t a flavor combination you think you’d enjoy, you can also try the following add-ins for your coffee:
What is the best dark chocolate for coffee?
I would recommend using an 85% cacao chocolate bar. If you’re looking for something in the middle, I recommend a 70% cacao chocolate bar. And if you’re looking for something a little less intense, I would recommend using a 60% cacao chocolate bar.
I think the best dark chocolate for coffee is one that is at least 70% cocoa; this will provide a good balance of sweetness and chocolate flavor while still not being too overpowering.
It’s also important to use a high-quality brand, as low-quality chocolates can have an off taste when combined with coffee.
When it comes to flavors in general, the more complex and robust flavor tends to be better appreciated by most people.
So if you’re looking for something really special, then try some single estate or small-batch chocolate from various countries around the world.
However, the problem with this approach is that it can be very expensive! So if your budget doesn’t allow for all of these options, then remember to keep things simple by opting for 70% or higher cocoa content.
I wouldn’t use 90% or higher dark chocolate as this may make your coffee taste too bitter.
In my opinion, I find the 90% and higher dark chocolate not enjoyable, as the flavors are too intense. However, if you do like the flavor of these chocolates, make sure to use them to combine with your coffee; it’s all about the taste you love!
How much dark chocolate do you have to add to your coffee?
There is no definitive answer to this question since different people have different preferences for how much dark chocolate to add to their coffee.
Some people might like to add just a small amount, while others might like to add more. Ultimately, it’s up to you to experiment until they find the right balance for your taste buds.
Have a look below for my recommendation of the dark chocolate to coffee ratios I like to use.
These include different brewing techniques and different strength levels:
Coffee brewer: | Low strength: | Medium strength: | High strength: |
Chemex | 5 grams | 8 grams | 12 grams |
French press | 7 grams | 10 grams | 15 grams |
Hario V60 | 5 grams | 8 gram | 12 grams |
What is the best way to dissolve dark chocolate in coffee?
There are a few different ways to dissolve dark chocolate in coffee. I’ve listed three ways to do so below, with a step-by-step guide for each one:
1. Using a microwave
One way to dissolve dark chocolate in coffee is to use a microwave:
- Break the chocolate into small pieces and place it in a microwave-safe bowl.
- Microwave the chocolate on high for 30 seconds, then stir it.
- Microwave the chocolate for another 30 seconds, then stir it again.
- If the chocolate isn’t completely melted, microwave it for another 15 seconds.
- Now you can combine it with the coffee of choice, and you can enjoy it!
2. Using your stovetop
Another way is to use your stovetop:
- Cut the chocolate into small pieces so that it will melt more quickly.
- Place the chocolate in a small saucepan over low heat.
- Stir the chocolate until it has melted completely.
- Pour the melted chocolate into your coffee and stir until well combined. Enjoy!
3. Stirring with a spoon
And, last but not least, the best way to dissolve dark chocolate in coffee is by stirring it with a spoon!
This will leave you with the least mess of all of the options:
- Chop (or break) the dark chocolate into smaller pieces so that it will melt more quickly, and then place the chopped chocolate into a coffee cup.
- Next, pour a bit of hot coffee over the chopped chocolate and let it sit for a minute or two until it is fully dissolved.
- You can also stir the coffee and chocolate together until it is fully combined. Use a spoon to stir the chocolate and coffee into a paste, and then add the rest of your hot coffee.
- Finally, enjoy your delicious cup of dark chocolate coffee!
It’s best to choose a technique that suits you best. I often like to dissolve my dark chocolate in the cup while stirring with a spoon.
One of the other two techniques might be better for larger parties, as you can quickly dissolve a lot of chocolate before adding the brewed coffee and serving it!
More coffee add-ins to try
Ready to upgrade your daily coffee?
Here are some coffee add-ins to try today:
- Baking Soda in Coffee
- Brown Sugar in Coffee
- Buttermilk in Coffee
- Cocoa Powder in Coffee
- Cinnamon in Coffee
- Cold Foam in Coffee
- Condensed Milk in Coffee
- Heavy Cream in Coffee
- Honey in Coffee
- Olive Oil in Coffee
- Powdered Sugar in Coffee
- Vanilla Extract in Coffee
And for even more options, check out the coffee add-ins hub here!
Conclusion
The end of the day is usually a time when we’re winding down and heading home. Maybe you find yourself craving something sweet or want to enjoy that last cup of coffee before turning in for the evening.
If this sounds like you, then try adding dark chocolate to your daily cup of joe! It won’t take much – just 5 grams per cup will do it. You can even add sugar if you need more sweetness than cocoa offers alone.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this article as much as I have! If you try out this recipe at home, let me know how it goes – and if your coffee turns out tasting good with dark chocolate added.