During the warmer months, it is not uncommon for ceremonial cacao to arrive softened, fully liquid, or melted. When this happens, it can be surprising, but it does not mean the cacao has been damaged. In fact, this is one of the clearest signs that your Ceremonial Grade Cacao is pure and high quality.
100% pure Ceremonial Grade Cacao naturally melts at around 30°C. When parcels move through summer heat or sit in warm delivery vans, the cacao may soften, fully liquefy, or arrive reset into a solid block once cooled. This change in texture does not affect flavour, nutritional value, or the integrity of the cacao.
One of the defining features of true ceremonial cacao is that it contains its full natural cacao butter and is minimally processed. Due to this, it behaves the way cacao traditionally has for centuries. Cacao that passes through prolonged 30+ degree temperatures without softening at all has often been stabilised or heavily processed, which is not characteristic of ceremonial grade cacao.
Creation cacao is made the traditional way, stone ground and gently melted by the sun. It is not industrially treated to withstand heat or long supply chains. This is intentional. This sensitivity to heat is a natural result of minimal processing.
If your cacao arrives softened or set into one piece, simply place it in the fridge briefly, then chop or shave what you need. Once re-set, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. You may notice light or white patches once cooled. This is cacao bloom, a natural movement of the cacao butter.
In summer, ceremonial cacao is best enjoyed iced. Melted cacao is ideal for this, as it blends easily once chilled. Simply prepare your cacao as usual, then add cold water or milk and ice, or blend once cooled for a refreshing summer ritual.
Watch How to Make the Perfect Ceremonial Iced Cacao here
If your cacao melts, it has not failed. It is behaving exactly as high grade ceremonial cacao should.