The Difference Between Ceremonial-Grade Cacao Paste and Cacao Powder

When people think of cacao, some reach for the well-known cacao powder from the supermarket shelves, often used in smoothies, baking, and hot drinks. However, cacao powder is a processed form of cacao that’s quite different from its pure, unaltered counterpart, ceremonial-grade cacao paste. While both may originate from similar cacao beans, the methods used to process them lead to significant differences in their flavour, texture, potency and health benefits.

What is Cacao Powder?

Cacao powder is produced by cold-pressing raw cacao beans to remove most of the cacao butter. While this process results in a fine, nutrient-rich powder that retains antioxidants, minerals, and theobromine, it also takes away much of the beneficial fats and compounds that make Ceremonial Cacao so special. Essentially, cacao powder is the defatted, nutrient and energy-void version of cacao. Great for adding taste to recipes, and smoothies, but missing out on the full cacao experience.

Characteristics of Cacao Powder:

• Lower Fat Content: The absence of cacao butter changes the way nutrients are absorbed.

• Quicker, Shorter Energy Release: Without its natural fats, theobromine absorption may be quicker, leading to a sharper energy boost rather than a sustained effect.

• Commonly Used in Cooking: Cacao powder is versatile and works well in smoothies, baking, and many other culinary creations.

Cacao powder remains a valuable ingredient for general wellness and cooking, though it differs from whole cacao in its composition and effects.


 What is Ceremonial-Grade Cacao Paste?

Creation Cacao is made from ceremonial quality, organic beans, which are carefully ground into a pure paste that preserves the cacao butter in tact. It is then placed in the sun and set into blocks, meaning it is not cooked at high temperatures, but gently melted by sunlight before being formed. This process helps maintain the full nutrient profile of the cacao, offering a longer, sustained release of energy. Traditionally used in ceremonial practices, it facilitates a deeper connection to the cacao plant.

Characteristics of Ceremonial-Grade Cacao:

• Rich in Natural Fats: The cacao butter in ceremonial-grade cacao helps with the absorption of its nutrients, contributing to a more balanced and sustained energy release.
• Longer, Sustained Energy: Due to the combination of cacao butter and theobromine, ceremonial-grade cacao provides a smoother, longer lasting energy boost rather than a sharper, quicker surge.
• Traditional Ancestral Use: Used in traditional ceremonial practices, ceremonial-grade cacao maintains the ancient methods of preparation, offering a deeper connection to the cacao plant.

Quality Comparison

Selecting the Right Cacao for Your Needs
Both cacao powder and ceremonial-grade cacao paste have their place depending on your goals and intended experience. If you need a quick and convenient ingredient for recipes, cacao powder is a good option. However, for those seeking a deeper, more complete cacao experience that nourishes both body and mind & delivers a powerful boost of focus and energy, ceremonial cacao paste is the better choice.

Many people who switch from cacao powder to ceremonial-grade cacao notice an immediate improvement in their energy levels and overall well-being. Although the investment in pure Ceremonial Cacao is noticeably higher, its one that delivers an unmistakable experience to your mind and body.

Explore the Depth of Cacao

Whether you’re simply looking for a versatile ingredient for recipes or seeking a more profound connection with cacao, understanding these differences will help you to make the right choice for your body, so that you can experience cacao in a way that enhances your practice and aligns with your wellness journey.