Try coffee cherry tea and discover a whole new way to enjoy it

Trying coffee cherry tea: the flavour, preparation and caffeine content of cascara. Here’s how to find top-quality, fruity coffee cherry tea for home.

Everyone knows the coffee bean. Yet the red fruit that encases it surprises even seasoned coffee enthusiasts: those who try coffee cherry tea discover Cascara—a beverage that sits somewhere between a delicate fruit tea and a light coffee. Its aroma is reminiscent of dried cherries, honey, or rosehip, while the flavor often carries a hint of gentle sweetness. And no, Cascara doesn’t taste like a cup of coffee. That is precisely what makes it so appealing.

What exactly is coffee cherry tea?

Coffee cherries grow on the coffee plant and, depending on the variety and growing region, ripen into brilliant shades of red, yellow, or orange. Inside, there are usually two seeds—the future coffee beans. Surrounding them is the fruit pulp, which is carefully separated from the pit during coffee processing.

For Cascara, this pulp is dried. The name comes from the Spanish word for "peel" or "shell," though in the context of coffee, it refers to the dried pulp of the coffee cherry. When steeped in hot water, it creates an aromatic infusion that can reveal widely varying flavor profiles depending on its origin and processing method.

This is not a new invention; infusions made from coffee cherries have long been consumed in coffee-producing countries. For many coffee fans in Germany, however, it remains a delightful discovery—and a wonderful way to experience the coffee plant in its entirety.

Trying coffee cherry tea: What Cascara tastes like

Cascara stands proudly on its own merits, but it is easiest to describe as fruity—like a high-quality tea—yet with a mellow depth that hints at its coffee origins. Common flavor notes include cherry, plum, raisin, red berries, and rosehip. Depending on the batch, notes of honey, caramel, and a hint of malt may also be present.

The acidity generally comes across as fruity and lively, rather than harsh like that of some classic fruit teas. The bitter, roasted note typical of coffee is usually absent. Those who enjoy mild tea with distinct fruit flavors will likely take a quick liking to Cascara. However, anyone expecting a robust espresso substitute might be surprised.

The flavor of coffee cherry tea depends heavily on how it was processed. If the fruit was carefully harvested, cleanly processed, and gently dried, the infusion tastes clear, sweet, and complex. Less carefully processed product can taste flat, dusty, or unpleasantly fermented. Origin and quality are therefore not merely nice-to-know details, but crucial factors for the final cup.

Is Cascara sweet?

Its natural sweetness is one of its most delightful qualities. This sweetness comes from the fruit itself, not from added sugar. Yet Cascara is not syrupy; the sweetness remains subtle, complementing the fruity notes. If you prefer a rounder flavor, you can always add a small spoonful of honey later. But do try the tea plain first—that is the best way to experience the true character of the coffee cherry.

Preparation: Simply brew and savor

You don’t need barista tools or complicated recipes for your first attempt. Use about 10 to 15 grams of dried coffee cherries per liter of water. For a single large cup, roughly two heaping teaspoons per 250 milliliters is sufficient.

Pour hot water over the cherries—water that is hot but no longer at a rolling boil. A temperature of around 90 to 95 degrees Celsius is a good starting point. Let the tea steep for five to eight minutes, then give it a taste. A shorter steeping time results in a lighter, fresher profile, while a longer one brings out greater depth, fruitiness, and a more pronounced sweetness.

Cascara can easily be prepared in a teapot, a tea filter, or a French press. A French press is particularly effective, as it gives the fruit pieces plenty of room to release their aroma; simply press down the plunger and pour when ready. Depending on the variety, you can also steep the coffee cherries a second time. The second infusion is more delicate but by no means lacks character.

Hot or cold?

Brewed hot, coffee cherry tea is an aromatic companion for quiet mornings and long afternoons. As a cold brew, it reveals a different side: smooth, juicy, and refreshing. To make it, combine the coffee cherries with cold water and let them steep in the refrigerator for about eight to twelve hours. Then, strain and serve over ice.

In summer, a slice of orange or a sprig of rosemary makes a great addition, though the rule remains: try it plain first. A good Cascara doesn't need bold accompaniments; its subtle notes of fruit and honey should remain distinct.

How much caffeine is in coffee cherry tea?

Cascara contains caffeine, though the amount varies depending on the variety, origin, quantity used, and steeping time. While the infusion does contain caffeine, its effect is generally less intense than that of a cup of filter coffee or espresso. If you are sensitive to caffeine, it is best not to try it for the first time late in the evening.

This makes it an interesting alternative for people who appreciate the flavor and origin of the coffee plant but don’t want to drink a classic cup of coffee during every break. However, it is not a decaffeinated tea. As with coffee, pregnant women, nursing mothers, and individuals advised by a doctor to limit caffeine intake should choose their portions mindfully and seek professional advice if in doubt.

What to look for when buying

When buying coffee cherry tea, it pays to apply the same scrutiny that discerning coffee drinkers use for their beans. Transparent origins, traceable processing, and a fresh, clean aroma are all good signs. The dried cherries should not smell musty and, ideally, should not consist primarily of tiny fragments.

Also, check whether the product is pure Cascara. Blends containing hibiscus, flavorings, or large amounts of added sugar can be tasty, but they often mask the coffee cherry's true character. If you really want to find out whether you enjoy Cascara, start with a pure variety.

At Vee's Kaffee, the focus—even with coffee cherry tea—is on the pleasure derived from excellent origins and careful processing. This aligns with a philosophy that refuses to reduce the enjoyment of coffee solely to the roasted bean: quality begins at the farm and ultimately reveals itself in the aroma, clarity, and flavor in your cup.

Who is Cascara particularly suited for?

Coffee cherry tea is a wonderful choice for the curious who wish to add something unique to their repertoire of beverages. Home baristas often appreciate it because it offers a new perspective on the very plant they work with every day. Tea drinkers value the natural fruitiness and the light, elegant structure.

Cascara also shines as a non-alcoholic accompaniment to a meal. Served well-chilled, it pairs beautifully with cheese, pastries, or fruit-based desserts. Served warm, it harmonizes wonderfully with a leisurely breakfast and a piece of dark chocolate. Its delicate acidity can enliven dishes without overpowering them.

Anyone trying coffee cherry tea doesn't have to choose between drinking coffee or tea in the future. Instead, Cascara offers a third kind of indulgence: familiar in its origins, yet surprising in its fruity lightness. Prepare your first cup simply, take a moment to savor the aroma and flavor—and let the coffee cherry itself reveal what lies within.