We are familiar with dark chocolate. But what is plain chocolate? And is plain chocolate dark chocolate? When exploring the types of chocolate you may have come across “plain chocolate” and it can be an alien term for you. Chocolate lovers! Find the answers you seek here in this blog. Together, we’ll discuss “Is plain chocolate the same as dark chocolate?”, and everything you should know about this uncommon term. So, let’s get started!
Is Plain Chocolate Dark Chocolate? All You Should Know
A simple answer to the question – is plain chocolate dark chocolate – is YES!!!!!!!!!!! In fact, plain chocolate is the other name of dark chocolate. Moreover, it is more commonly sold as dark chocolate. This is why people get confused when they come across the term “plain”. But we cannot conclude this by just saying yes. After all, there is a lot more for you to explore. So, the “Is plain chocolate dark chocolate?” quest starts here and this is all you should know:
What is Plain Chocolate?
When exploring the question – is plain chocolate dark chocolate? – knowing about plain chocolate should be your first step. Well, bittersweet or semisweet chocolates are called plain chocolates. They usually have a more bitter and less sweet taste. In other words, plain and dark chocolate are the same. It is a term that was used years ago when milk or white chocolate didn’t exist. Moreover, dark chocolate replaced this term after the discovery of milk chocolate.
“Dark brown chocolate that has a stronger and less sweet taste as compared to milk chocolate is called plain chocolate.” – Collins Dictionary
Apart from this, many sources simply define plain chocolate as dark chocolate. This is a piece of solid evidence backing the assertive answer to the question “Is plain chocolate dark chocolate?” Also, this has a richer and more intense flavor as compared to its counterparts. Keep reading to find out why!
What is Plain Chocolate Made of?
Searching for the answer to – Is plain chocolate dark chocolate? – is not bound to just yes or no. In fact, what they are made of is also a part of this quest. As aforementioned, it is a semi-sweet chocolate. But where does this bitter flavor come from? Well, it’s because of the chocolate ingredients. Yes, that’s right! The composition of this treat is what gives it its bittersweet, indulgent taste. Furthermore, the key ingredients that are responsible for its nuanced flavor profile include:
- Cocoa liquor
- Cocoa butter
“Plain chocolate is made of chocolate liquor along with a lot of cocoa butter, some sugar, and sometimes vanilla.” – Wikipedia
Also, this contains NO MILK or any other dairy product. This is why its texture is so rich and indulgent. In other words, plain chocolate has higher cocoa content as compared to other chocolates. Although there is no exact percentage of cocoa to make dark chocolate, the bitter taste indicates higher amounts. According to some sources, dark or plain chocolate contains 50% to 80% cocoa content or sometimes even higher cocoa content.
Fun Fact! You can even find dark chocolates with 100% cocoa content. Interested in tasting them? Well, good luck to you!
Is plain chocolate an obsolete term?
It’s true that nobody calls it plain chocolate and people call it dark chocolate. The shift in terminology is partly due to the increasing specificity and variety of chocolates available. However, you can still find it in some recipe books or on the internet. It’s an uncommon term but it’s still occasionally used for pure dark chocolate.
Is Plain Chocolate Vegan?
Well, by now we know that the answer to – is plain chocolate dark chocolate – is yes. Does it mean that plain chocolate is also vegan like dark chocolate? Yes, pure plain chocolate is VEGAN. So, if you are someone following a vegan-friendly diet, you can indulge in this indulgent treat.
Did you know? Vegan chocolate doesn’t contain any animal-derived ingredients like milk, butter or honey.
Instead, these chocolates get their flavor and texture from plant-based ingredients. Unlike their non-vegan counterparts, they don’t contain dairy. And the good news here is: DARK/PLAIN CHOCOLATE DOESN’T CONTAIN DAIRY! Instead, they contain plant-based milk like oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, soy milk, etc. for that creamy texture. So, if you are supporting sustainability and avoiding animal-derived food, you can indulge in dark chocolate. Furthermore, high-end chocolate brands make sure that their vegan-friendly dark chocolate mimics the taste of regular ones by using the best quality ingredients.
Note: Not all dark chocolates are vegan! Some of them may contain animal-derived additives like gelatin. Therefore, always look for a vegan label on the packaging or check the ingredients before buying.
Is Plain Chocolate Gluten-Free?
Yes, plain chocolate in its purest form is gluten-free. However, they are not always free of gluten content. Many manufacturers add malt to make the texture of the chocolate creamier. So, it is better that you always check the ingredient list on the packaging before buying it.
So, apart from the answer to “is plain chocolate dark chocolate?” you also know whether or not it’s vegan-friendly or gluten-free. However, one thing is a surety: it is purely delicious and irresistible.
How to Eat Plain Chocolate?
At this stage of our quest of – Is plain chocolate dark chocolate? – we are going to explore different ways of eating it. Just like other varieties, this one is also very versatile. Moreover, those who don’t like their treats too sweet absolutely love dark chocolate. You can have it as-is, use it to create baked masterpieces and so much more. Let’s discuss how else you can enjoy your plain/dark chocolate:
Enjoy as a Snack
The best way to indulge in the richness of dark chocolate is to enjoy it in its original form. After all, its rich, intense flavor and smooth texture make it a satisfying treat. Moreover, it is simply the best option if you need a pick-me-up snack or want to munch on something on-the-go. Also, you can find so much variety in dark chocolate treats. From velvety truffles to chocolates with dried fruits & nuts, the options are endless. Because it’s not too sweet but still flavor-filled, eating dark chocolate is always a guilt-free pleasure. It contains very little sugar and no milk. Therefore, it’s a healthier snack option.
Use It in Baking
Undoubtedly, dark chocolate can make your baked goods richer and tastier. In fact, it is a key ingredient of many decadent treats, including cakes, cookies, brownies, pastries, and whatnot. Moreover, the intensity of cocoa enhances the flavor of baked goods and they become filled with chocolatey goodness. But do you know that there are two types of plain/dark chocolates used in baking: bittersweet and semisweet chocolate? While both can be alternatively used per preference, here is the difference between them:
Bittersweet Chocolate |
Semi-sweet Chocolate |
|
Dark chocolate – with sugar content as low as 33% – is used in baked goods. |
Also used in baking, this dark chocolate contains a higher sugar content. |
Confectionary
Plain chocolate is not just a key component of some bakery items. Apart from this, it is also a cornerstone of confectionery. Quite a huge title but rightly given. A lot of people think milk chocolate is the backbone of different confectionaries. However, adding dark chocolate to those makes them more indulgent and irresistible. In fact, artisanal chocolatiers often use dark chocolate to create luxurious confections, including truffles, pralines, bars, chocolate-covered treats – and then some. Additionally, dark chocolate is essential in making ganache. And ganache makes for the filling or topping of a lot of confections.
Perfect for Gifting
Dark chocolate is amazing for gifting purposes because of its luxurious appeal. Whether in the form of elegant chocolate bars, artisanal truffles, or gourmet gift boxes, they are simply perfect as gifts. It is because they convey thoughtfulness and indulgence. Moreover, these treats are packed with health benefits so they are the best choice for your health-conscious loved ones or those following certain dietary restrictions. So, grab a box of these delectable treats and you are all set to delight the recipient, no matter the occasion. And when packed elegantly, this gift is surely an unmatched one.
Is Plain Chocolate Healthy?
We know that dark chocolate is healthy but what about plain chocolate? Is it healthy too? Well, we have already discussed that the answer to the question is plain chocolate dark chocolate is yes. This means both are the different names of the same treat. So, the benefits of dark chocolate are the benefits of plain chocolate. And let me tell you: this chocolate is healthier than any of its counterparts. Here are some of the benefits:
Good for Your Heart Health
Plain chocolate is rich in antioxidants like flavanols. And these greatly support your heart health. Furthermore, they enhance the function of blood vessels by improving blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and reducing the risk of heart disease. Also, chocolate consumption in moderation reduces bad LDL cholesterol and increases good HDL cholesterol. So, this treat doesn’t just tantalize your taste buds but also supports a healthy heart. In other words, having chocolate is a delicious way to promote heart wellness.
Good for Your Brain Function
The flavonoids in plain/dark chocolate also help improve cognitive performance. They improve the blood flow in the brain which results in better memory, attention, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, caffeine and theobromine can enhance mental alertness and concentration. Have an exam? You can have some dark chocolate to keep your mind agile. So, if you think dark chocolate is just tasty, you are thinking wrong. In truth, it is a smart choice if you are looking for a brain-boosting treat.
Boosts Your Mood & Energy
Feeling low? Have some dark chocolate and you’ll instantly feel uplifted. Why so? What’s so amazing about chocolate is that it makes us feel good. Well, it stimulates the production of serotonin and endorphins in our body – the feel-good neurotransmitters. And this is not all! Dark chocolate boosts our energy too. After all, it contains caffeine which gives our body the quick energy lift it needs. So, don’t underestimate the power of this treat. It’s taste-filled, rich, as well as healthy.
How Much Plain Chocolate You Can Eat?
When exploring “Is plain chocolate dark chocolate?”, you must know how much of it is too much. There is no exact recommended consumption amount when it comes to dark chocolate. However, you should have it in moderate amounts to avoid negative effects on your health. After all, excess of everything is bad. Moreover, there are many reviews suggesting different amounts of dark chocolate you can consume per day.
According to the National Library of Medicine, each individual can consume up to 20g of dark chocolate each day.
You should avoid having dark chocolate in excessive amounts. This is because it can lead to several health issues. And who wants to face them? No one! The following are the negative impacts that you may experience if you eat too much plain or dark chocolate:
- Sleeplessness
- Nervousness
- Increased urination
- Fast heartbeat
- Skin allergies
- Nausea
- Headache
Ending Thoughts – Is Plain Chocolate Dark Chocolate?
Let’s get back to where it all started: is plain chocolate dark chocolate? And we know that the answer is yes! In fact, plain chocolate is the name with which dark chocolate was initially introduced to the world. So, clearly, there can’t be any comparison. After all, both are the same name for one chocolate. Therefore, the qualities and benefits of dark chocolate are the qualities and benefits of plain chocolate. Although calling it plain is uncommon, it is not unusual. So, next time you come across the term plain chocolate don’t get confused. You now know they are talking about dark chocolate.
