Does baking cocoa powder go bad?

Baking cocoa powder does go bad over time. The oils in the cocoa powder can become rancid, which will give it an off flavor and aroma. The cocoa powder may also clump or become hard.

The shelf life of baking cocoa powder varies depending on the type of cocoa powder and how it is stored. Natural cocoa powder will have a shorter shelf life than Dutch-process cocoa powder. Baking cocoa powder that is stored in a cool, dry place will last longer than cocoa powder that is stored in a warm, humid environment.

If you are not sure whether your baking cocoa powder has gone bad, there are a few things you can check for:

* Smell: If the cocoa powder has a rancid or off odor, it has likely gone bad.

* Taste: If the cocoa powder tastes bitter or off, it has likely gone bad.

* Texture: If the cocoa powder is clumpy or hard, it has likely gone bad.

If you are in doubt about whether your baking cocoa powder has gone bad, it is best to discard it and purchase a new container.