When you love chocolate cake as much as we do, the type of cocoa you use matters. The same recipe can taste completely different depending on whether you choose natural cocoa or alkalised (Dutch-processed) cocoa, especially in rich chocolate sponges, brownies and buttercreams. What Is Natural Cocoa? Natural cocoa is made by roasting cacao beans, grinding them into a paste, pressing out most of the cocoa butter, then drying and milling the remaining solids into a fine powder—without changing its natural acidity.It typically has a pH around 5–6, which means it is slightly acidic, with a bright, intense chocolate flavour and a touch of bitterness that works beautifully in deep, fudgy bakes. You will notice that natural cocoa is lighter brown in colour. Because it is less processed, it generally retains more of cocoa’s naturally occurring antioxidants and flavonoids, which is why it is often preferred in “better-for-you” bakes or drinks where you want the cocoa flavour to really shine. What Is Alkalised (Dutch-Processed) Cocoa? Alkalised or Dutch-processed cocoa goes through an extra step called alkalisation, where the cocoa nibs or powder are treated with an alkaline solution such as potassium carbonate.This process reduces the cocoa’s natural acidity and raises the pH closer to neutral or slightly alkaline, softening the flavour and changing the colour. Dutch-processed cocoa tastes smoother, less sharp and more mellow, which many people associate with a “luxury” chocolate dessert experience. It is usually darker—often a rich reddish-brown or almost black—and dissolves more easily in liquids, making it ideal for silky hot chocolates, mousses and ultra-smooth chocolate cakes. Flavour, Colour and Texture in Your Cakes In the bowl, natural cocoa gives you a brighter, slightly more acidic chocolate note, which can make brownies, cupcakes and sponge cakes taste more intense and “chocolate-forward”.Alkalised cocoa, on the other hand, creates a rounder, smoother chocolate flavour that feels very indulgent and works wonderfully in layered celebration cakes and creamy fillings. Visually, natural cocoa will give your bakes a medium chocolate-brown crumb, while Dutch-processed cocoa is what creates those dramatic, dark chocolate layers and almost black cookies. Because Dutch-processed cocoa disperses so easily, it also helps batters and ganaches look extra smooth—perfect when you want clean, elegant slices on a dessert table. How Each Cocoa Works with Leavening This is where things get technical—but it is also the key to a great rise. Natural cocoa is acidic, so it reacts with baking soda (which is alkaline) to produce carbon dioxide bubbles, helping cakes, cupcakes and cookies lift in the oven.Many classic chocolate cake recipes are written with this chemistry in mind: natural cocoa + baking soda is a built-in leavening system. Alkalised cocoa has had most of its acidity neutralised, so it does not react with baking soda in the same way. Recipes using Dutch-processed cocoa usually rely on baking powder, which already contains both an acid and a base, to create the rise.If you swap cocoa types without adjusting the leavening, you might end up with cakes that are denser, don’t rise as much, or spread more than expected. Can You Substitute One for the Other? For drinks, sauces, frostings and some no-bake desserts, you can usually substitute one cocoa for the other and simply expect differences in flavour and colour: natural cocoa will taste stronger and look lighter, while Dutch-processed will taste smoother and look darker.In structured bakes—like sponge cakes, cupcakes and some cookies—it is safer to follow the cocoa type specified in the recipe, especially when baking soda is involved. If you only have one type of cocoa on hand, look for recipes written specifically for that cocoa, or use a trusted conversion from a reliable baking source to adjust the baking soda and baking powder balance. This helps keep your crumb light and your layers even, rather than risking a flat or gummy cake. Which Cocoa Should You Use? Choose natural cocoa when you want: A bold, intense chocolate flavour with a hint of tang. Lighter brown colour and classic “homestyle” chocolate bakes. Recipes that use baking soda for lift, like many traditional chocolate cakes and brownies. Choose alkalised (Dutch-processed) cocoa when you want: A smooth, mellow, less bitter chocolate flavour that feels extra indulgent. Deep, dark colour in your cake layers, cookies and icing. Ultra-smooth batters and drinks that mix easily and pair well with baking powder. For serious chocolate lovers, keeping both in your pantry opens up a whole world of textures and flavours—from bright, intense cocoa-forward cakes to sleek, dark, luxurious slices that look as good as they taste.

Summer in New Zealand is a season of sunshine, celebrations, and indulgence. Whether it’s a family barbecue, a beachside picnic, or a festive gathering, dessert always takes center stage. At Cocoa Cloud, we believe that chocolate isn’t just food — it’s an experience. Our award‑winning cakes are crafted to delight the senses, combining premium Belgian chocolate with innovative recipes that make every bite unforgettable. Why Chocolate Is the Perfect Summer Treat Versatility: Chocolate pairs beautifully with fruits, nuts, and creams, making it ideal for summer flavors. Celebration: From birthdays to weddings, chocolate cakes are timeless crowd‑pleasers. Mood booster: Chocolate naturally elevates serotonin, adding joy to every occasion. Luxury made simple: With Cocoa Cloud’s next‑day delivery, indulgence is always within reach. Spotlight: The Signature Cloud Chocolate Cake Our Signature Cloud Chocolate Cake is a gold award‑winning masterpiece. Baked using a water‑bath technique, it achieves a moist, melt‑in‑your‑mouth texture that sets it apart from ordinary cakes. With 30% less sugar, the natural richness of Belgian chocolate shines through, offering indulgence without overwhelming sweetness. Perfect for summer gatherings, this cake can be customized with fresh berries, festive toppings, or elegant decorations. It’s available in gluten‑free, vegan, eggless, and keto options — ensuring everyone at the table can enjoy a slice. Seasonal Favorites for Summer 2026 Mocha Chocolate Cake: A harmonious blend of coffee and chocolate, topped with Chantilly mascarpone cream. Black Forest Cake (Cocoa Cloud Edition): Layers of chocolate chiffon, kirsch cream, and cherries — a classic reimagined. Snow White Cake: White chocolate and coconut mousse crowned with mascarpone Chantilly cream, perfect for tropical vibes. Chocolate Berry Cake: Eggless indulgence with bursts of fresh berries, balancing richness with fruity brightness. Each cake is handcrafted with premium ingredients, ensuring quality, flavor, and artistry in every slice. Customer Stories Our customers often tell us that Cocoa Cloud cakes turn ordinary gatherings into extraordinary celebrations. Fiona, a loyal customer, shared: “The cake was fab. Everyone enjoyed it — I should have bought two!” Heather R. added: “Snow White was deliciously light, fluffy, and incredibly tasty. Highly recommend it!” These glowing reviews reflect our mission: to create cakes that aren’t just desserts, but memories. Why Choose Cocoa Cloud Award‑winning recipes: Recognized for flavor, texture, and creativity. Premium Belgian chocolate: Smooth, aromatic, and indulgent. Inclusive options: Vegan, gluten‑free, keto, and eggless cakes available. Next‑day delivery: Order before 3 PM for fresh cakes delivered across Auckland. Passion for quality: Every cake is baked with love, precision, and artistry. Tips for Pairing Cocoa Cloud Cakes This Summer Add fresh fruit toppings — strawberries, raspberries, or mangoes enhance chocolate’s richness. Serve with chilled beverages — iced coffee, sparkling wine, or fruit punch complement the flavors. Create a dessert table — mix cakes with cookies, chocolates, and seasonal treats for variety. Personalize your cake — add candles, toppers, or custom inscriptions for special occasions. Conclusion Summer 2026 is the perfect time to indulge in Cocoa Cloud’s award‑winning chocolate creations. Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, hosting a festive gathering, or simply treating yourself, our cakes deliver joy, elegance, and unforgettable flavor. 👉 Place your order today at Cocoa Cloud, call us at 09‑4191688, or visit our Auckland store at 64 Mokoia Road, Birkenhead. Let Cocoa Cloud make your summer celebrations sweeter, one slice at a time. Order Now