Understanding Cocoa Percentages: 40% vs 53% vs 70% vs 85% Chocolate

cocoa percentage in chocolate

What are these cocoa percentages?

Ever picked up a chocolate bar and wondered what those numbers—40%, 53%, 70%, 85%—actually mean?

You’re not alone. Most people assume it’s just a “fancy label,” but in reality, that number completely changes how your chocolate tastes, feels, and even how satisfying it is.

At Kreative Chocolates, especially with our Mammoth range, we’ve created chocolates across different cocoa levels so you can find your kind of chocolate—whether you like it smooth and sweet or bold and intense.

Let’s make this super simple.


So, What Does Cocoa Percentage Really Mean?

In plain terms, cocoa percentage tells you how much of the chocolate bar comes from cocoa (the real chocolate part).

The higher the number, the more “chocolatey” it gets.

  • Higher cocoa % = richer, deeper, less sweet
  • Lower cocoa % = creamier, sweeter, more comforting

Think of it like coffee—some people love it light and milky, others want it strong and intense.


40% Cocoa – Easy, Smooth & Comforting

If you enjoy classic milk chocolate, this is where you’ll feel at home.

It’s smooth, slightly sweet, and very easy to enjoy. Nothing too overpowering—just a comforting chocolate experience.

Perfect for:
Those everyday cravings, kids, or anyone who doesn’t like bitter chocolate.


53% Cocoa – The “Sweet Spot”

This is where things start getting interesting.

You still get a bit of sweetness, but now the real cocoa flavour begins to show. It’s richer, slightly deeper, and feels more “premium.”

Perfect for:
People who want to upgrade from regular chocolate without going too intense.


70% Cocoa – Bold, Rich & Satisfying

Now we’re entering proper dark chocolate territory.

The sweetness drops, and the cocoa takes the spotlight. You’ll notice deeper flavours and a slightly bitter edge—but in a good way.

Perfect for:
Dark chocolate lovers, coffee pairings, or when you want something less sugary but more satisfying.


85% Cocoa – Intense & Powerful

This one isn’t for everyone—and that’s the point.

85% cocoa is strong, bold, and very low on sweetness. It’s the kind of chocolate you don’t just eat—you experience.

Perfect for:
People who truly love dark chocolate or prefer low-sugar options.


Why This Actually Matters

Once you understand cocoa percentages, you stop randomly picking chocolates.

You start choosing based on:

  • Your mood
  • Your taste preference
  • How sweet (or not) you want it

And honestly, it makes chocolate way more enjoyable.


The Mammoth Way

With Mammoth, we didn’t want just one type of chocolate—we wanted to give you a full journey:

  • 40% – smooth and easy
  • 53% – balanced and rich
  • 70% – bold and deep
  • 85% – intense and powerful

Because sometimes you want comfort… and sometimes you want intensity.


Final Thought

Chocolate isn’t one-size-fits-all.

Some days you’ll want something creamy and sweet. Other days, you’ll crave something strong and real.

Once you understand cocoa percentages, you’ll never look at a chocolate bar the same way again.

And when you’re ready, try different levels—you might just discover a new favourite.