Before you start: set the space
Preparing ceremonial cacao is itself part of the ritual. Give yourself 10–15 unhurried minutes, choose a quiet spot, and if it feels right, set an intention for the ceremony before you even switch on the kettle.
How to prepare ceremonial cacao, step by step
Measure your cacao
Use 20–40 g of pure cacao mass per person. Beginners often start around 20–25 g; more experienced practitioners may use up to 40 g.
Chop, grate or melt it directly
If you're using a block (Sierra Ecuador or Criollo Peru), chop or grate it into small pieces so it's easy to dose and melts evenly. Drops can be used as-is.
Heat water — don't boil it
Heat water to roughly 80–90°C (just below boiling). Boiling water can scorch the cacao and make the drink taste bitter and flat.
Whisk the cacao in
Add the cacao to a small amount of hot water first and whisk until fully melted and smooth, then top up with the remaining water or a plant milk of your choice.
Keep it pure, or add gently
For a traditional ceremony cup, many people drink it plain. If you like, a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla, ginger, chili, pepper or cardamom can be used, with a little honey or raw cane sugar added if you wish.
Pause before drinking
Take a moment — a breath, an intention, a few seconds of silence — before the first sip. This is what separates a cacao ceremony from a warm drink.
What you'll need
Sierra Ecuador Block
Soft and mild with a very fine aroma and a pleasant bitterness — a gentle entry point.
Criollo Peru Block
Considered the rarest and finest cacao variety in the world — complex, intense, deep.
Criollo Peru Drops
The same rare variety in convenient drop form for precise, easy dosing.
Naranjal Ecuador Wafers
Vibrant, fruit-forward aromatics with a noticeable citrus freshness.
Ready for your own cacao ceremony?
100% pure ceremonial cacao from Ecuador & Peru — sourced directly from small-scale farming cooperatives, no additives.
Shop ceremonial cacaoFrequently asked questions
How much ceremonial cacao should I use per cup?
Most people use 20–40 g of pure cacao mass per serving, depending on experience and intention. Start on the lower end if it's your first time.
Can I use a blender instead of a whisk?
Yes — a blender or milk frother works well and can give a smoother, slightly foamier result. A whisk over gentle heat is the traditional method.
What's the best time of day to drink ceremonial cacao?
Morning is common, since cacao's gentle, grounding effect can support focus and intention-setting for the day. There's no fixed rule — many circles also meet in the evening.
Is ceremonial cacao the same as hot chocolate?
No. Ceremonial cacao is 100% cacao mass with nothing added, prepared with water rather than sugar and milk, and taken more slowly and mindfully than a everyday hot chocolate.