Valrhona · Exceptional Blend
Extra Noir 53% Beans – 3kg
Versatile, accessible 53% dark chocolate blend.
Extra Noir 53% is a Valrhona blend with a moderate cocoa content. Its rounded cocoa profile makes it a versatile choice for general pastry applications: mousses, ganaches, chocolate biscuits, and ice creams. An accessible base chocolate for new Valrhona users.
Technical specifications
53%
Cocoa
Minimum guaranteed content
Dark
Type
Couverture chocolate
●●●●○
Fluidity
4 out of 5 drops
1Aromatic profile
Main profile
cocoa-forward
Minor note
round
Signature
versatile
Tasting notes
3How much chocolate do you need?
Required quantity525 g
Recommended format1 x 1kg bag
Tempering allowance (10%)578 g
Advice: Always allow for 10% extra to account for natural tempering losses (residue in the mixing bowl or on the spatula). The 1kg or 3kg format always offers a better price per kg.
4What is it for?
Patissland assessment based on the applications recommended by Valrhona for this product.
Ganaches
Mousses
Molded chocolates
Bars
Coatings
Ice creams & sorbets
5Tempering curve
The official Valrhona tempering curve for this chocolate. Tempering crystallizes the cocoa butter into a stable form for mirror-like shine, a clean snap, and perfect demolding.
1
Melting
50–55°C
Double boiler or microwave in short intervals
2
Cooling
28–29°C
Formation of the right crystals
3
Working
31–32°C
Ideal molding temperature
Tip: To simplify tempering, use Mycryo cocoa butter (1% of the chocolate’s weight) added at 34–35°C after melting. A quick, reliable method favored by professionals.
6Flavor pairings
Ingredients that naturally enhance this chocolate, according to Valrhona recommendations.
yellow fruits
hazelnut
caramel
7This chocolate’s perfect pairings
Valrhona products that perfectly complement this chocolate in your creations.
8Signature recipe for this chocolate
A creative idea by Patissland to showcase the unique profile of this product.
Extra Dark Fondant 5353% molten center
InspirationSoft fondant with a molten center. Here, the chocolate fully expresses its pure cocoa character, ideally served warm with bourbon vanilla ice cream.
Complete technical data sheet
| Brand | Valrhona (France, Tain-l'Hermitage) |
| Range | Blend |
| Type | Dark |
| Cocoa content | Minimum 53% |
| Fluidity | 4 out of 5 drops |
| Storage | 18 months at 16–18°C, protected from moisture |
| Allergens | Milk, soy (depending on the product). May contain tree nuts. |
| Made in | France (Tain-l'Hermitage, Drôme) |
Frequently asked questions
What is couverture chocolate?
Couverture chocolate is chocolate with a high cocoa butter content (generally more than 31%) intended for professionals. Its fluidity enables coating, molding, and all fine chocolate-making techniques. Valrhona has exclusively produced couverture chocolate since 1922.
What is the difference between fèves and pistoles?
There is no difference in quality: fèves are drop-shaped, while pistoles are flat discs. Both melt identically. Valrhona has historically produced fèves, but also offers certain products as pistoles depending on the market.
How many fèves are in 100g?
Approximately 35 to 40 Valrhona fèves per 100g (varies by product). A practical format for measuring to the nearest gram without weighing once you are used to it.
Is tempering mandatory?
For uses where the chocolate remains visible and solid (molding, coating, decoration): yes, tempering is essential for shine, snap, and shelf life. For uses where it is mixed in (mousses, ganaches, biscuits): not required; simple melting is sufficient.
How should Valrhona chocolate be stored?
Ideally at 16–18°C, in a dry place protected from light and odors. Avoid the refrigerator (condensation = blooming). In a resealed bag, it keeps for 18 months. No problem if the chocolate develops slight bloom: it remains suitable for baked pastries.
Take it further
Explore the Valrhona collection, chocolates and pralines, and polycarbonate chocolate molds on Patissland.
Shipping and Delivery
Processing and Delivery Times
- Order Preparation: 0 to 2 working days
- France, Belgium, Germany: 1 to 2 working days
- Europe: 2 to 5 working days
- Click & Collect Osny: 24-48h
Shipping Fees
- FR, BE, DE: based on weight
- Europe: based on country and weight
- Click & Collect Osny: Free
Exact fees are calculated at checkout.
