Does 85 Percent Dark Chocolate Have Caffeine? Unwrapping the Facts

December 13, 2025 •

3 min read

An average 1-ounce serving of 85 percent dark chocolate contains approximately 20-30 milligrams of caffeine. While this is a modest amount, it confirms that yes, 85 percent dark chocolate does have caffeine, and it is more than lower-percentage chocolates.

Quick Summary

Eighty-five percent dark chocolate contains a notable amount of caffeine due to its high cocoa solid content, but significantly less than a cup of coffee. The total stimulant effect is also influenced by the presence of theobromine.

Key Points

Yes, 85% dark chocolate has caffeine: The caffeine is naturally present in the cocoa solids, and the higher the cocoa percentage, the higher the caffeine content.
Moderate caffeine content: A 1-ounce serving of 85% dark chocolate contains approximately 20-30mg of caffeine, which is significantly less than a standard cup of coffee.
Contains more theobromine: Dark chocolate has much higher levels of theobromine, a milder stimulant than caffeine that provides a more sustained boost.
Impacts depend on sensitivity: While most people can tolerate the caffeine in dark chocolate, sensitive individuals may need to limit consumption, especially in the evening, to avoid sleep disruption.
Influenced by origin and processing: The specific caffeine level can vary based on the cacao bean's origin, harvest season, and manufacturing processes.
Theobromine is responsible for toxicity in dogs: Dogs metabolize theobromine more slowly than humans, making chocolate toxic to them, particularly darker varieties.

The Connection Between Cocoa Percentage and Caffeine

Caffeine is a naturally occurring stimulant found in the cacao bean, which is the raw ingredient used to make chocolate. As chocolate is processed, the caffeine remains locked within the cocoa solids. This means the percentage of cocoa solids is the primary determinant of a chocolate bar's caffeine content. A bar labeled 85% dark chocolate, therefore, contains significantly more cocoa solids—and thus, more caffeine—than a bar with 70% cocoa or a standard milk chocolate bar. The principle is straightforward: the higher the cocoa percentage, the higher the caffeine content. Factors such as the origin of the cacao beans can also influence the exact amount, as beans from certain regions naturally contain different levels of caffeine.

Quantifying the Caffeine in 85% Dark Chocolate

So, how much caffeine are we talking about? For a standard 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of 85% dark chocolate, you can expect to consume approximately 20-30 milligrams of caffeine. It's crucial to compare this amount with other common caffeine sources to put it into perspective. For example, a typical 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains, on average, around 95 milligrams of caffeine, while a standard can of cola has 30-40 milligrams. This means you would need to eat a large amount of 85% dark chocolate to get a caffeine boost comparable to a single cup of coffee, making it a much milder stimulant source.

Theobromine: The Other Stimulant in Dark Chocolate

Caffeine is not the only stimulant present in dark chocolate. Cacao also contains theobromine, a related compound that contributes to the chocolate's overall energizing and mood-boosting effects. In fact, dark chocolate contains much higher levels of theobromine than caffeine. For an 85% dark chocolate, a 1-ounce serving can contain around 300-500 milligrams of theobromine. Theobromine's effects are milder than caffeine's but last longer in the body. It provides a smoother, more sustained feeling of alertness rather than the sharp peak and crash often associated with coffee. The combination of caffeine and theobromine creates dark chocolate's unique stimulant profile.

Factors Influencing Caffeine Content in Chocolate

Several factors beyond just the cocoa percentage can affect the final caffeine level in your chocolate bar:

Bean Origin: Cacao beans from different geographical regions have naturally varying caffeine concentrations.
Harvest Season: Cacao harvested during the dry season can have higher caffeine content compared to the rainy season.
Processing Methods: While roasting doesn't significantly alter caffeine, other processing steps can impact final levels.
Added Ingredients: Some chocolate products may include additional caffeine sources, such as coffee-infused chocolate or energy bars.

Caffeine Content Comparison: Chocolate vs. Other Beverages

To provide clarity, here is a comparison table of the approximate caffeine content in different types of chocolate and common caffeinated beverages:


Item	Serving Size	Approximate Caffeine Content (mg)
85% Dark Chocolate	1 ounce (28g)	20-30
70-85% Dark Chocolate	1 ounce (28g)	12-30
Milk Chocolate	1 ounce (28g)	3-10
White Chocolate	1 ounce (28g)	0
Brewed Coffee	8 ounces	80-200
Black Tea	8 ounces	40-70

Is 85% Dark Chocolate Right for You? Factors to Consider

For most people, the amount of caffeine in a moderate serving of 85% dark chocolate is unlikely to cause adverse effects. However, certain individuals should be more mindful of their intake. This includes those with caffeine sensitivity, pregnant women who are advised to limit caffeine consumption, and children. Because the stimulant effects of both caffeine and theobromine can impact sleep, it's generally recommended to consume high-cacao chocolate earlier in the day to avoid potential sleep disturbances. White chocolate remains a completely caffeine-free option for those needing to avoid all stimulants. The potential health benefits of dark chocolate, such as antioxidants, must also be balanced against individual sensitivities and consumption timing. You can learn more about chocolate's components at Healthline: Does Chocolate Have Caffeine? White, Dark, and Milk.

Conclusion

In summary, 85 percent dark chocolate does contain caffeine, and its concentration is higher than in milk or white chocolate due to the higher percentage of cocoa solids. While it provides a mild stimulant effect, the overall caffeine amount is substantially lower than a cup of coffee. The addition of theobromine provides a gentler, more prolonged boost in energy and mood. By understanding the factors that influence caffeine levels and being mindful of personal sensitivity, you can enjoy 85% dark chocolate as part of a balanced diet while controlling your stimulant intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

A typical 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of 85% dark chocolate contains around 20-30 milligrams of caffeine.

85% dark chocolate has significantly less caffeine than coffee. A standard 1-ounce serving has 20-30mg of caffeine, whereas an 8-ounce cup of coffee can have 80-200mg.

For most people, the amount of caffeine in a moderate serving of dark chocolate is unlikely to disrupt sleep. However, if you are very sensitive to caffeine, it is best to consume it earlier in the day to avoid potential sleep disturbances.

Theobromine is a mild stimulant found in dark chocolate. It provides a more gentle and sustained boost in mood and energy compared to caffeine, which is known for its sharper, shorter-lived effects.

No. The caffeine is stored in the cocoa solids, which are absent in white chocolate. Therefore, white chocolate is virtually caffeine-free, while milk and dark chocolates contain varying amounts.

The caffeine content can vary depending on factors like the cacao bean's origin, the harvest season, and processing methods. South American beans, for instance, can contain higher caffeine levels than West African beans.

Yes, in moderation, the combined effects of caffeine and theobromine can improve alertness, mood, and focus. Dark chocolate is also rich in antioxidants and minerals.