Can You Grind Chocolate in a Coffee Grinder?

The short answer is yes, you can use a coffee grinder to grind chocolate, but there are a few crucial points to consider to achieve the best results.

Types of Chocolate

When using a coffee grinder for chocolate, it is essential to understand the type of chocolate you are grinding. Solid chocolate bars can be ground, but chocolate chips or other forms may not produce evenly because of their size and composition. Avoid using chocolate that has add-ons such as nuts or dried fruits, as they can clog your grinder.

Temperature Considerations

Temperatures are a critical factor when grinding chocolate. Chocolate can easily melt if it gets too warm, which can alter its texture and flavor. Therefore, it is best to use short bursts and give the grinder a cooling period between grinding sessions to prevent overheating.

Cleanliness

Ensure that your coffee grinder is clean and free from coffee residues or other flavors to avoid potential flavors contaminating your chocolate. A clean grinder will also work more efficiently and produce better results.

Texture and Grinding Time

The texture you desire will influence the amount of grinding time. Experimenting with different grinding times can help achieve the desired fineness. For a fine chocolate powder suitable for baking or culinary uses, you may need to grind for a longer period. Smaller quantities can be ground more effectively, as larger amounts may not grind evenly.

Alternative Methods

In cases where you want to reduce cacao nibs to a powder, you will need to go through two steps. First, grind the nibs in a food processor, followed by the coffee grinder. Simply using a food processor alone may not yield the desired consistency. This two-step process ensures a finer powder for better results in recipes that require a very fine texture.

Using a Coffee Grinder for Cacao Beans

I have used a low-end whirling blade coffee grinder to create delicious hot chocolate by grinding cacao beans. It worked well, and to clean the grinder afterward, you can grind a tablespoon of cornmeal. This method helps remove chocolate residues without the need for harsh cleaning agents.

Safety and Efficiency Tips

It's important to note whether you are working with cocoa beans, cacao nibs, or actual chocolate. For cocoa beans, the process involves grinding them a few times in a food processor and then in a coffee grinder to achieve the desired fine powder. Trying to grind cocoa beans or cacao nibs solely in a food processor may not yield a smooth enough texture. A coffee grinder works well for this purpose.

When dealing with cacao nibs, since they turn into a compact powder, be prepared to clean the unit after use. A spice grinder is not suitable for grinding chocolate due to the risk of melting, and it is best to avoid using burr grinders for this task as well, as they can be too messy and inefficient.

For actual chocolate, it is not recommended to grind it in a coffee grinder or similar equipment. The heat from the blade or gears would cause the chocolate to melt. Instead, for shaving thin bits, a knife is the best tool to use.

Conclusion and Final Tips

With the proper precautions and understanding of the specific type of chocolate and the equipment, grinding chocolate in a coffee grinder can be a useful technique for baking and cooking. Just remember to be mindful of temperature, use small quantities, and ensure proper cleanliness for optimal results.