How to drink Cacao

Quick Start Guide

Welcome to the world
of CEREMONIAL CACAO

If you're new to Ceremonial Cacao, this guide will help you transform your solid cacao bar into a rich, chocolatey beverage.

Every block of Keith's Cacao is a unique work of art

The white marbled pattern, known as bloom, naturally forms as cacao butter separates from the cacao. It's a sign of minimal processing and maximum potency.

Whether your block of Keith's Cacao has a lot of white marbling or only a little, the cacao itself is the same.

READY TO BREAK APART YOUR CACAO BLOCK?

METHOD 1
Use a sharp, heavy knife to chop your cacao into small pieces or shave into thin slivers. 

METHOD 2
Break it into small chunks and grind into a fine powder using a food processor, blender, or Nutribullet.

After you have broken apart your block of Cacao, store it in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness.

You do not need to refrigerate Keith's Cacao. Store the blocks in a cool, dry place like a kitchen cupboard or pantry. Chopped cacao is best in an airtight jar or tin.

Does Keith's Cacao expire? You will see an expiration date on the back label of your cacao block that is three years from the date of packaging.

Cacao has a shelf life of many years when stored properly and will retain all of its active compounds and potency. The white spots are completely normal and expected.

Keith's Cacao
Crafted your way

There are endless ways to craft the perfect cup of Keith's Cacao—experiment and make it your own! Start with the simple recipe in the video above, and adjust to what feels best for your body and your taste buds. Adjust the amount of cacao, use more or less water, play with spices, sweeteners, toppings. See our recipes and dosage guide below for inspiration.

Make your cacao as unique as you are

Sprinkle in spicy cayenne powder to feel the cacao's effects faster.

Sweeten with a little (or a lot) of honey or agave syrup.

Try a dash of cinnamon, cardamom, or vanilla for amazing flavors.

Add cashew or coconut milk for a creamy, luxurious texture.

Cacao Recipes
To Explore

Enjoy Keith's 100% Pure Ceremonial Cacao in countless ways—hot or cold drinks, smoothies, treats, and more. Need inspiration? Explore these recipes and get creative!

Explore Recipes

Dosage Guide

How much cacao should you drink for various activities or intentions? Here are the recommendations of Keith Wilson, founder of Keith's Cacao and father of the modern-day cacao movement.

Recommended Dosages

0.3-0.4 oz (8.5-11g)
for dreaming or lucid dreaming, taken mid-sleep cycle.

0.4-0.75 oz (11-21g)
for sensitive or long-term cacao drinkers.

3/4 oz (21g)
twice a day for cardiovascular long-term health uses, such as high blood pressure or clearing arterial deposits. Switch to just 15g twice a day after six months.

1 oz (28g)
for meditation or to assist creativity.

1.2 oz (34g)
for mild aerobic activities like yoga, dancing, cardio, or general gym workouts.

1.5 oz (42.5g)
for the standard ceremonial dose (for inner work).

Up to 2 oz (57g)
for an upper-limit ceremonial dose, especially if you are large-bodied. Note that about 5% of average drinkers will get nauseous (sick) if they consume this much at one time. We do know of some massive bodybuilders who take 4oz (113g) before an intense workout!

When to Drink Cacao

Regarding timing, cacao's strongest effects typically last between 4 to 5 hours. Many can feel the impact of Keith's Cacao begin immediately. If you are on an empty stomach, you will typically feel some buzz within 20-30 minutes. At 45 minutes, the full effects occur. 

Taking cacao with a meal will slow its absorption, so you will feel the effects slower and spread over more time. Drinking cacao in this way is perfect for an entire day of soulful work.

A dose of 28g or more taken after 6PM may keep some people awake until late. Keith's Cacao contains about as much caffeine as a decaf cup of coffee, but some people are more sensitive to caffeine than others.

** Note **

Cacao is a diuretic, causing slight dehydration. It is advisable to drink plenty of water. In addition, some people find that larger amounts of cacao tend to have mild laxative effects 4-7 hours later. This is normal, but if unpleasant, it can be a gentle message to use less cacao the next time.

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