When we make chocolate, the thin shell around each cacao bean is removed. We save those husks and turn them into tea. It smells like chocolate, tastes like a light herbal tea, and has no added sugar. This guide explains what cacao husk tea is, how it tastes and how to brew a good cup.
What is cacao husk tea?
Cacao husk tea is made from the husks of cacao beans (Theobroma cacao). The husk is the papery outer shell that covers the bean. It is separated from the bean after roasting and would normally be thrown away. Our tea uses 100% Malaysian cacao husk, with nothing added.
Less waste from bean to cup
Because the husk is a by-product of chocolate making, turning it into tea means more of the cacao fruit gets used. It is a small way to reduce waste in a chocolate workshop.
What does cacao husk tea taste like?
Light and smooth, with a gentle cocoa aroma and a slightly earthy, nutty finish. It is much milder than hot chocolate and closer to a herbal tea. If you enjoy roasted teas such as barley or hojicha, you will probably like it.
How cacao husk tea compares with other drinks
| Drink | Taste | Caffeine |
|---|---|---|
| Cacao husk tea | Light, cocoa aroma, earthy | Contains a small amount |
| Coffee | Bold, bitter, roasted | Higher |
| Green tea | Grassy, fresh | Moderate |
| Hot chocolate | Rich, sweet, creamy | Low to moderate |
Cacao husk naturally contains theobromine and a small amount of caffeine. Amounts vary, so if you are sensitive to caffeine or are pregnant, ask your doctor before drinking it regularly.
How to brew cacao husk tea
- Boil fresh water. Use about 250ml per tea bag.
- Add one tea bag to your cup or teapot.
- Pour in the hot water.
- Steep for 3 to 5 minutes. A shorter time gives a lighter cup, and a longer time is stronger.
- Remove the tea bag and enjoy as it is, or with a little milk or honey.
For iced tea, use two tea bags with the same amount of water, steep for 5 minutes, then pour over plenty of ice.
6 ways to enjoy cacao husk tea
- Hot and plain. The simplest way to taste the cocoa aroma.
- With a splash of milk. A softer, rounder cup.
- With a little honey. A gentle sweetness without much effort.
- Iced. Brew strong and pour over ice for Malaysia's hot afternoons.
- With a square of dark chocolate. Pair it with our dark chocolate bars.
- As a gift. A pack of tea goes well in a hamper. Browse our gift sets.
Frequently asked questions
How many tea bags are in a box?
Each box has 10 tea bags of 5g each.
Does cacao husk tea taste like chocolate?
It smells like chocolate, but it drinks like a light herbal tea. It is not sweet or creamy like hot chocolate.
Does cacao husk tea contain caffeine?
It naturally contains a small amount of caffeine and theobromine. The amount varies.
Can I drink it hot or cold?
Both. Brew it hot, or brew it stronger and pour it over ice.
How should I store it?
Keep the box sealed in a cool, dry place away from sunlight.
Ready to try it? Shop our cacao husk tea.