cacao tea

How to Make Cacao Tea at Home

August 27, 2024

If you love chocolate but are looking for a lighter, more refreshing way to enjoy its rich flavor, cacao tea might be your new favorite drink.

This delightful beverage is made from cacao shells, which are the outer part of the cacao bean. The shells have a subtle chocolatey taste that’s perfect for tea. Plus, it’s easy to make at home! Here's how you can brew your own cacao tea.

how to make cacao tea

Cacao Tea Recipe

What you need:

  • Cacao shells: You can find these at specialty stores or online. They’re the star of the show.
  • Water: Fresh and filtered water is best for brewing.
  • Optional add-ins: You can add sweeteners like honey or sugar, spices like cinnamon or vanilla, or even a splash of milk or cream for extra richness.

What to do:

1. Boil the Water: Start by bringing about 2 cups of water to a boil. Fresh, filtered water works best because it’s free from any impurities that could alter the flavor of your tea.

2. Add the Cacao Shells: Once the water reaches a boil, remove it from the heat. Add 2 tablespoons of cacao shells to the water. Stir them gently to ensure they’re fully submerged.

3. Let It Steep: Cover your pot or teapot and let the cacao shells steep for about 10-15 minutes. The longer you steep, the stronger the flavor will be, so feel free to adjust the steeping time to your taste.

4. Strain the Tea: After steeping, strain the tea into your cup, removing the cacao shells. You should be left with a warm, fragrant brew that smells deliciously of chocolate.

5. Customize Your Tea: Now, you can enjoy your cacao tea as is or customize it with your favorite add-ins. A spoonful of honey or a dash of cinnamon can add a lovely sweetness and warmth. For a creamier texture, try adding a splash of milk or cream.

6. Enjoy! Take a moment to savor the aroma before taking your first sip. Cacao tea is perfect for a cozy evening or as a mid-day treat when you need a little pick-me-up.

Tips for the Best Cacao Tea

  • Quality Matters: Use good quality cacao shells for the best flavor and health benefits. Maybe one of these Cacao Shells from Amazon will be perfect for you.
  • Experiment with flavors: Don’t be afraid to get creative with your add-ins. Mint, orange zest, or a drop of vanilla extract can all enhance the natural flavor of cacao.
  • Reuse the shells: After steeping, you can dry the cacao shells and reuse them for a second, lighter brew. Just note that the flavor will be milder.
  • Pair with a snack: A small piece of dark chocolate or a handful of nuts can make your tea time even more enjoyable.

cacao tea 1

Why Cacao Tea?

Cacao tea is not only delicious but also has some great benefits. It’s low in calories, caffeine-free, and contains antioxidants that are good for your health. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the essence of chocolate without the heaviness of a hot cocoa or the sweetness of a chocolate bar.

Next time you’re craving something warm and chocolatey, skip the candy and brew up a cup of cacao tea instead. It’s a simple pleasure that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Have you tried a cacao ceremony? Read all about it here!

Making your own cacao tea? Don't forget to share it on social media and tag me on Facebook and Twitter so I can check them out!

What recipe do you want to learn next? Comment down below and let’s learn together!

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Carissa Isip
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