Does Cacao Have Caffeine? Which Packs a Bigger Buzz?

At The Cocoa Circle, we believe in celebrating the wonders of cocoa and cacao—from its vibrant flavour to the positive impact it can have on farmers and conscious consumers alike.

But one question often pops up for cacao enthusiasts: Does cacao have caffeine?

Let’s take a deep dive into the facts to explore the caffeine content in cacao and how this incredible bean stacks up against your usual cup of coffee.

Cacao vs. Coffee: The Caffeine Question

First, let’s distinguish between two much-loved pick-me-ups: cacao and coffee. While both come from plant-based seeds, they go through very different journeys before landing in your mug.

Coffee beans are roasted and brewed to create that strong morning brew. In contrast, cacao beans are fermented, sometimes roasted (the difference between cocoa and cacao), and then processed into cocoa powder, chocolate (like our Cocoa Drops), and other delicious creations.

Cacao beans or cocoa beans are about 50% cocoa butter and 50% cocoa mass, rich in nutrients like carbohydrates, protein, and fibre. Coffee beans, on the other hand, contain only about 15% fat and fewer micronutrients. And while coffee is known for delivering a fast caffeine jolt, the caffeine story in cacao is a bit more nuanced.

Does Cacao Have Caffeine?

Yes, but not much.

Raw cacao contains a small amount of caffeine—roughly 0.22%. To put it in perspective, even decaffeinated coffee usually contains more! That means cacao offers a much gentler pick-me-up than coffee, making it ideal if you’re sensitive to caffeine or want to avoid a post-caffeine crash.

But here’s the twist: cacao’s energising effect doesn’t actually come from caffeine. It’s mostly due to a lesser-known compound called theobromine.

What Is Theobromine, and How Is It Different from Caffeine?

Theobromine is another alkaloid found in cacao beans, and it belongs to the same methylxanthine family as caffeine. However, the two compounds have very different effects on the body. While caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, making you feel more alert (and potentially jittery), theobromine primarily impacts the cardiovascular system, improving blood flow and creating a smoother, more sustained energy boost.

Here’s why many people prefer theobromine over caffeine:

• It’s less likely to cause anxiety, insomnia or restlessness according to a study published in Psychopharmacology
• It provides a calm, long-lasting boost with milder central nervous system stimulation according to a study published in Science Direct—no spikes, no crashes
• It supports heart health through vasodilation (widening of blood vessels)

Benefits of Theobromine vs. Caffeine in Cacao

At The Cocoa Circle, we love cacao not just for its bold taste but for its incredible health benefits, many of which are due to theobromine. Here are some reasons why you might consider swapping your morning coffee for a cacao-based drink:

• 🌿 Sustained Energy: The energy from cacao, thanks to theobromine, is smoother and longer-lasting compared to the quick surge you get from coffee. No more caffeine crashes, just consistent vitality throughout the day.
• ❤️ Improved Circulation: Theobromine helps dilate blood vessels, improving circulation. This leads to better oxygen flow throughout the body, making cacao a great choice for anyone looking to boost their heart health.
• 😊 Natural Mood Lift: Cacao contains small amounts of serotonin and anandamide (the “bliss molecule”), which, combined with theobromine, offer a natural feel-good boost.
• 🧘‍♀️ Nervous System Friendly: Unlike caffeine, which can trigger your fight-or-flight response, theobromine doesn’t overstimulate your nervous system. It’s perfect for those who want to stay calm, focused, and energised.

The Health Benefits of Cacao

Beyond its theobromine content, cacao is a nutritional powerhouse that offers a wide range of health benefits. Here are a few reasons to enjoy cacao regularly:

• 🔩 Rich in Iron: Cacao is one of the richest plant-based sources of iron, essential for maintaining energy levels and supporting brain function. If you’re looking to boost your iron intake without relying on animal products, cacao is a tasty and effective solution.
• 💪 Magnesium Boost: A single serving of cacao can provide up to 420 mg of magnesium, a mineral crucial for calming the nervous system, reducing stress, and promoting better sleep. Magnesium also plays a key role in muscle relaxation and recovery, making cacao a great post-workout treat.
• 🌾 Fibre for Digestion: Cacao is packed with fiber, which helps regulate your digestive system and keeps your gut healthy. Whether you’re enjoying cacao in a smoothie, hot drink, or dessert, you’re giving your digestion a friendly boost.
• 🛡️ Antioxidant Protection: Cacao is a treasure trove of antioxidants, including flavonoids, which help protect your cells from damage by free radicals. These antioxidants can reduce the risk of heart disease, cancer, and other age-related illnesses.

Cacao vs. Coffee: Which Is Healthier?

So, where does this leave us in the cacao caffeine vs. coffee debate? While both have their pros, cacao offers a more balanced energy boost and delivers a host of additional health benefits.

Here’s a quick comparison:

For those looking to cut down on caffeine, balance their energy, or support long-term health, cacao is a fantastic option.

Final Thoughts: A Better Buzz with Cacao than Caffeine

If you’re looking for an energy boost without the downsides of caffeine, cacao, or cocoa, is a fantastic alternative. Thanks to its low caffeine content and the presence of theobromine, cacao gives you sustained energy, supports your mood, and nourishes your body in ways coffee can’t match.

At The Cocoa Circle, we’re passionate about redefining indulgence. Whether you’re sipping on a nourishing cacao drink made with our Cocoa Powder, or snacking on antioxidant-rich Cacao Nibs, you’re not just choosing better ingredients—you’re supporting a fairer, more sustainable cocoa industry.