The Journey of Cacao Butter: From Bean to Bar

At Coracao, our commitment to quality and sustainability begins with the journey of our key ingredient: cacao butter. This journey from bean to bar is a testament to the care, craftsmanship, and ethical practices that go into creating our delicious chocolates. Let’s take a closer look at the fascinating process of how cacao butter is made and its journey to becoming a vital part of Coracao’s indulgent treats.

The Origin of Cacao Butter

Cacao butter is derived from the cacao bean, the seed of the cacao tree (Theobroma cacao). These trees thrive in tropical climates near the equator, particularly in regions of South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. The process begins with the careful cultivation and harvesting of cacao pods by skilled farmers.

Harvesting and Fermentation

The journey starts in the lush cacao farms where ripe cacao pods are harvested by hand. Each pod contains seeds surrounded by a sweet, white pulp. The seeds, or beans, are extracted and placed in shallow containers to ferment. Fermentation is a crucial step that develops the beans’ flavor profile and reduces their bitterness.

Drying and Roasting

After fermentation, the beans are spread out to dry in the sun. This drying process can take several days and is essential for reducing moisture content and preventing mold growth. Once dried, the beans are ready for roasting. Roasting further enhances the flavor of the beans and prepares them for the extraction of cacao butter.

Pressing and Extraction

The roasted beans are cracked open to remove the shells, leaving behind the nibs. These nibs are then ground into a thick, paste-like substance known as chocolate liquor. The chocolate liquor is pressed to separate the cacao solids (used to make cocoa powder) from the cacao butter. The result is pure, creamy cacao butter, ready to be used in a variety of applications.

Quality and Purity

At Coracao, we prioritize quality and purity in every step of the process. Our cacao butter is:

• Organic: Sourced from certified organic farms that use sustainable and regenerative farming practices.
• Fair Trade: Ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions for farmers.
• Unrefined: Retaining all the natural nutrients and antioxidants for maximum health benefits.

Crafting Coracao Chocolates

Once the cacao butter is extracted, it becomes a key ingredient in our chocolates. Here’s how we craft our delicious treats:

1. Mixing and Tempering
• Cacao butter is combined with other high-quality ingredients like raw cacao powder and natural sweeteners. This mixture is carefully tempered to achieve the perfect texture and shine.
2. Molding and Cooling
• The tempered chocolate is poured into molds and allowed to cool and solidify. This process creates the smooth, creamy texture that our chocolates are known for.
3. Packaging and Sustainability
• Our chocolates are then packaged in eco-friendly, compostable materials, reflecting our commitment to sustainability. Each bar and truffle is a testament to our dedication to quality and environmental responsibility.

The Coracao Difference

What sets Coracao apart is our unwavering commitment to creating chocolates that are not only delicious but also align with our values of sustainability and ethical sourcing. By choosing Coracao chocolates, you are supporting:

• Sustainable Farming: Practices that protect and preserve the environment.
• Fair Trade: Ensuring farmers are treated fairly and can support their communities.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Using only the best organic and natural ingredients for superior taste and health benefits.

The journey of cacao butter from bean to bar is a meticulous process that involves skill, dedication, and a commitment to sustainability. At Coracao, we take pride in every step of this journey, ensuring that our chocolates are crafted with the utmost care and quality.

Indulge in our chocolates knowing that each bite supports ethical practices and sustainable farming. Experience the rich, creamy goodness of cacao butter in every bar and truffle, and savor the difference that comes from choosing products made with a conscience.

Join us on this journey from bean to bar and discover the delicious world of Coracao. Indulge with a conscience and enjoy the finest chocolates crafted from the purest ingredients. Let every bite be a celebration of quality, sustainability, and indulgence.