Baker's Chocolate

Baker's Chocolate is a brand of chocolate that has been a staple in American baking since its establishment in 1780. It is renowned for its role in the history of American confectionery and baking, offering a variety of products including unsweetened chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, and cocoa powder. The brand's origins and development are deeply intertwined with the evolution of chocolate consumption and production in the United States.

History

The story of Baker's Chocolate begins with John Hannon and Dr. James Baker, who founded the company in Dorchester, Massachusetts. Hannon, an Irish chocolatier, and Baker, a physician, formed a partnership to produce chocolate. This was at a time when chocolate was primarily consumed as a beverage. In 1780, they established the first chocolate mill in America, where they processed cocoa beans into chocolate. The company gained fame with the production of Baker's Chocolate, named after Dr. James Baker following Hannon's mysterious disappearance in 1788.

Chocolate Yogurt

Product Range

Over the years, Baker's Chocolate expanded its product line beyond the original unsweetened baking chocolate. It now includes:

• Unsweetened Chocolate: Pure chocolate with no added sugar, primarily used in baking.
• Semi-Sweet Chocolate: A form of chocolate that contains sugar and is used in a wide range of desserts.
• Bittersweet Chocolate: Similar to semi-sweet but with less sugar and a more intense chocolate flavor.
• Cocoa Powder: Made by removing some of the cocoa butter from the chocolate liquor, used in baking and for making chocolate drinks.

Culinary Uses

Baker's Chocolate is a key ingredient in many recipes, from simple brownies and chocolate chip cookies to more elaborate desserts like chocolate cake, mousse, and ganache. Its versatility and quality make it a favorite among professional and home bakers alike.

Cultural Impact

The brand has had a significant impact on American culinary traditions. It has been part of the country's baking heritage for over two centuries, making it a household name. Baker's Chocolate has also played a role in the development of chocolate recipes and the popularization of chocolate as a baking ingredient.

See Also

• Chocolate
• Cocoa bean
• Confectionery
• History of chocolate in the United States