Cacao Tea is a naturally sweet, chocolate tea made from brewed cacao husk that is both energizing and nutritious. Instead of throwing away the shells of cacao beans, enjoy their immense benefits and use them to make a delicious drink! This quick and easy 2-ingredient hot tea that’s ready in just 5 minutes. (This recipe is gluten-free, vegan, and refined sugar-free.)
I love tea and this cacao tea is exceptional. I tried it for the first time when I lived in Peru and now I’m obsessed. I went to a chocolate-making class where I learned of Peru’s rich culture of chocolate-making. We learned the entire process of making chocolate from removing the cacao beans from the fruit, to roasting the beans, removing the shell, grinding them, and more! The instructor excitedly explained all the incredible benefits of cacao tea including its ability to energize the body similar to a cup of coffee but without the jittery effect or harsh coffee crash. They mentioned it is also great for lactating mothers as it energizes, increases oxytocin, and helps increase milk production.
So you can immediately see, cacao tea has such great benefits. I enjoy a cup first thing in the morning with breakfast to get my day started and sometimes after a meal. Why not skip the caffeine jitters and enjoy a hot cup of cocoa tea?
What is Cacao Tea?
Cacao tea (not to be confused with cocoa tea) is loose-leaf cocoa husks infused in hot water. This hot beverage was discovered by the Mayan civilization.
What is the difference between cacao beans and cocoa beans?
Pronounced “Ca-cow”, Cacao is the raw, unprocessed version of cocoa. Cacao beans are cocoa beans in their natural state. The raw bean is referred to as cocoa beans once they are roasted.
For more healthy drink recipes, try our Hydrating Cherry Smoothie , Cilantro Tea, Easy Detoxifying Spirulina Drink next.
Cacao Tea Benefits
Increases Energy
Cacao is high in theobromine, a caffeine-like stimulant, found in cacao and chocolate. It acts as a stimulant in the body while creating a more relaxed effect by increasing serotonin and dopamine levels and reducing stress by reducing cortisol levels.
Great for Brain Health
The antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties present in cacao husk reduce the cell damage that could potentially lead to Alzheimer’s disease. Regularly drinking cacao husk tea also increases focus.
Mood-Boosting Properties
Cacao husks are rich in theobromine, a natural substance that stimulates the brain and reduces mental fatigue. It also acts as a natural muscle relaxer and decreases blood pressure.
Maintains Heart Health
Flavonoids in cacao have been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease. The HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol found in dark chocolate (derived from cacao) reduces the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Improves Digestive Health
The cacao bean contains fiber which encourages regular bowel movements, relieves stomach issues, and prevents hemorrhoids. And the antioxidants in cacao husks reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Great For Women Breastfeeding
Cacao contains a substance called theobromine, which has been shown to increase milk production in lactating women.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Cacao Husk: The shell of the cacao bean is often overlooked and discarded but this is a superfood with so many nutritious benefits. It has a delicate chocolate flavor that makes it a great healthy treat.
- Water: This is the liquid base of the tea.
OPTIONAL ADD-INS
- Cinnamon: This adds a warm, aromatic quality that counters the tart, sometimes bitter taste of raw cacao.
- Agave syrup: Use this natural sweetener if you want a sweeter cacao tea.
- Milk of choice: You can use almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, whole milk, heavy cream, or even a splash of condensed milk. Use whatever you prefer.
How to Make Cacao Tea
Steep for 5 minutes in boiling water. (The longer you steep the stronger the chocolate flavor.) Then sweeten, add a dash of milk, and enjoy!
Tips To Nail the Recipe
- The longer you steep the tea, the more intense the chocolate flavor.
- Do not use cocoa powder as a substitute for cacao; that’s hot cocoa. It won’t have the same nutritional value.
- Enjoy this drink fresh for the best results.
Variations
- COCAO NIBS TEA. Use this for a sharper chocolate taste that is more tart.
- MORE SPICES. Nutmeg, star anise, and bay leaves add an aromatic quality to this hot drink.
- ICED TEA. Refrigerate the tea after steeping to make iced cacao tea.
FAQs
What is the difference between a cacao husk and cacao nibs?
The husk is the outer shell of the cacao bean whereas the nibs are the crumbled bits of the cacao bean. The husk has a sweeter, delicate flavor while the nibs boost a stronger chocolate taste that is sometimes bitter. You can use either to make this cacao tea recipe.
Does cacao tea contain caffeine?
Cacao husks are caffeine-free. However, they contain theobromine, a natural substance that enhances focus but keeps you calm for more relaxed energy than coffee.
Does cacao tea help you sleep?
Although it has relaxing qualities thanks to the theobromine, this drink is not a sleep aid.
I Hope You Enjoy This Cacao Tea Recipe!
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More Healthy Drink Recipes To Try!
Cacao Tea
Ingredients
- 2 tsp Cacao Husk can use cacao nibs
- 9 oz Boiled Water
OPTIONAL ADD-INS
- pinch Cinnamon
- 1-2 tsp Agave syrup
- 1 tbsp Milk of choice plus more to taste
Instructions
- Steep for 5 minutes in boiling water. (The longer you steep the stronger the chocolate flavor.)
- Sweeten, add a dash of milk, and enjoy!
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