17 Cacao Coffee Alternatives
In recent years, cacao has emerged as a popular coffee alternative, especially among wellness enthusiasts and biohackers. With its rich, chocolatey flavor and impressive health benefits, cacao is more than just a treat—it’s a functional superfood. This blog explores 17 cacao coffee alternatives, their benefits, and how you can incorporate them into your daily routine. Whether you’re looking to reduce your caffeine intake or simply try something new, cacao offers a delicious and nutritious solution.
Why Cacao is Gaining Popularity as a Coffee Alternative
Cacao has become a staple in the wellness world, and for good reason. Unlike coffee, which can cause jitters and crashes, cacao provides a steady, natural energy boost thanks to its theobromine content. This compound stimulates the central nervous system gently, making it ideal for those who are sensitive to caffeine.
Additionally, cacao is packed with nutrients like magnesium, iron, and antioxidants, which support overall health. Its mood-enhancing properties, attributed to phenylethylamine (PEA), make it a favorite among biohackers and those seeking a mental lift without the side effects of coffee.
Health Benefits of Cacao Over Coffee
Rich in Antioxidants: Cacao is loaded with flavonoids, which combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
Mood Enhancer: Theobromine and PEA in cacao promote feelings of happiness and relaxation.
Lower Caffeine Content: With only about 12-40 mg of caffeine per serving (compared to coffee’s 95 mg), cacao is gentler on the body.
Supports Heart Health: Cacao improves blood flow, lowers blood pressure, and reduces inflammation.
Digestive Benefits: Unlike coffee, which can irritate the stomach, cacao is easier to digest and may even support gut health.
How to Brew Cacao for the Perfect Cup
Brewing cacao is simple and customizable. Here’s how to do it:
Choose High-Quality Cacao: Opt for organic, fair-trade cacao nibs, powder, or husks.
Use Hot Water (Not Boiling): Heat water to around 80°C (176°F) to preserve cacao’s nutrients.
Add Optional Ingredients: Enhance your brew with cinnamon, nut milk, honey, or a pinch of sea salt.
Steep or Whisk: For cacao nibs, steep for 5-7 minutes. For powder, whisk until smooth.
17 Cacao Coffee Alternatives to Try
If you're a coffee enthusiast looking to explore new flavors or reduce your caffeine intake, cacao-based drinks are a fantastic alternative. Cacao, the raw form of chocolate, offers a rich, chocolatey flavor without the jitters often associated with coffee. From creamy lattes to refreshing cold brews, cacao-based beverages are versatile, delicious, and packed with health benefits. Here are 17 cacao coffee alternatives to try, each with its unique twist and flavor profile.
1. Brewed Cacao Nibs: A Direct Coffee Substitute with a Rich, Chocolatey Flavor
Brewed cacao nibs are the closest alternative to coffee in terms of preparation and texture. Made from crushed cacao beans, this drink is brewed similarly to coffee grounds, resulting in a rich, chocolatey beverage with a hint of bitterness. It’s perfect for those who love the ritual of brewing coffee but want a caffeine-free option. Plus, cacao nibs are packed with antioxidants, making this a healthy choice.
How to Make It:
Grind cacao nibs to a coarse consistency.
Use a French press or coffee maker to brew the nibs with hot water.
Add milk or sweetener if desired.
2. Cacao Tea: Made from Cacao Husks, It’s Light and Refreshing
Cacao tea is made from the husks of cacao beans, which are often discarded during chocolate production. This tea is light, refreshing, and has a subtle chocolate flavor. It’s naturally caffeine-free and contains theobromine, a compound that provides gentle energy without the crash.
How to Make It:
Steep cacao husks in hot water for 5-7 minutes.
Add honey or cinnamon for extra flavor.
3. Cacao Latte: Mix Cacao Powder with Steamed Milk for a Creamy Drink
A cacao latte is a creamy, indulgent alternative to your regular coffee latte. Made with cacao powder and steamed milk, this drink is rich, smooth, and perfect for cozy mornings. You can use dairy or plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version.
How to Make It:
Mix 1-2 tablespoons of cacao powder with a small amount of hot water to form a paste.
Add steamed milk and stir well.
Top with foam or a sprinkle of cacao powder.
4. Cacao and Mushroom Blend: Combines Cacao with Adaptogenic Mushrooms for Added Benefits
This blend combines cacao with adaptogenic mushrooms like reishi, chaga, or lion’s mane. These mushrooms are known for their stress-relieving and immune-boosting properties, making this drink a powerhouse of health benefits. The earthy flavor of mushrooms pairs surprisingly well with the sweetness of cacao.
How to Make It:
Mix cacao powder and mushroom powder in hot water or milk.
Add a natural sweetener like maple syrup or stevia.
5. Cacao and Maca Mix: A Superfood Duo for Sustained Energy
Maca root is a superfood known for its energy-boosting and hormone-balancing properties. When combined with cacao, it creates a drink that’s both energizing and delicious. This mix is perfect for those who need a natural pick-me-up without caffeine.
How to Make It:
Blend 1 teaspoon of maca powder with 1-2 tablespoons of cacao powder.
Mix with hot water or milk.
Add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor.
6. Cacao Cold Brew: Perfect for Iced Cacao Lovers
If you love iced coffee, you’ll adore cacao cold brew. This refreshing drink is made by steeping cacao nibs in cold water overnight, resulting in a smooth, chocolatey beverage that’s perfect for hot summer days.
How to Make It:
Combine cacao nibs with cold water in a jar.
Let it steep in the fridge for 12-24 hours.
Strain and serve over ice.
7. Cacao and Chai Spice: A Warming, Spiced Alternative
Combine the rich flavor of cacao with the warming spices of chai for a drink that’s both comforting and invigorating. This blend is perfect for chilly mornings or as an afternoon treat.
How to Make It:
Brew a chai tea bag or simmer chai spices (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves) in water.
Add cacao powder and stir well.
Mix with steamed milk for a creamy texture.
8. Cacao and Matcha Blend: Combines the Benefits of Cacao and Green Tea
This blend combines the antioxidant-rich properties of cacao and matcha for a drink that’s both energizing and nourishing. The earthy flavor of matcha pairs beautifully with the sweetness of cacao.
How to Make It:
Whisk 1 teaspoon of matcha powder with hot water.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of cacao powder and stir well.
Mix with steamed milk if desired.
9. Cacao and Turmeric Latte: Anti-Inflammatory and Energizing
Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and when combined with cacao, it creates a golden latte that’s both healthy and delicious. This drink is perfect for those looking to boost their immune system.
How to Make It:
Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with 1-2 tablespoons of cacao powder.
Add hot water or milk and stir well.
Sweeten with honey or maple syrup.
10. Cacao and Coconut Milk: A Dairy-Free, Tropical Twist
Coconut milk adds a creamy, tropical flavor to cacao drinks, making it a great dairy-free alternative. This combination is rich, indulgent, and perfect for those with lactose intolerance.
How to Make It:
Heat coconut milk in a saucepan.
Add cacao powder and stir until dissolved.
Sweeten with agave or coconut sugar.
11. Cacao and Almond Butter Smoothie: A Filling, Nutrient-Packed Drink
This smoothie is a meal in itself, combining the richness of cacao with the creaminess of almond butter. It’s packed with protein, healthy fats, and antioxidants, making it a great breakfast or post-workout drink.
How to Make It:
Blend 1-2 tablespoons of cacao powder with 1 tablespoon of almond butter, a banana, and your choice of milk.
Add ice for a chilled version.
12. Cacao and Collagen Elixir: Supports Skin and Joint Health
Collagen is known for its skin and joint health benefits, and when paired with cacao, it creates a delicious and nourishing drink. This elixir is perfect for those looking to support their overall wellness.
How to Make It:
Mix collagen powder with cacao powder and hot water.
Add a splash of milk or creamer for extra creaminess.
13. Cacao and Peppermint Tea: A Refreshing, Minty Option
This combination is perfect for those who love the refreshing taste of peppermint. The minty flavor complements the richness of cacao, creating a drink that’s both invigorating and soothing.
How to Make It:
Brew a cup of peppermint tea.
Add 1-2 tablespoons of cacao powder and stir well.
Sweeten with honey if desired.
14. Cacao and Vanilla Infusion: Sweet and Aromatic
Vanilla adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to cacao drinks, making them even more indulgent. This combination is perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
How to Make It:
Mix cacao powder with hot water or milk.
Add a few drops of vanilla extract or a vanilla pod.
Sweeten with your choice of sweetener.
15. Cacao and Hazelnut Brew: A Nutty, Indulgent Alternative
Hazelnut and cacao are a match made in heaven. This combination creates a nutty, indulgent drink that’s reminiscent of your favorite chocolate-hazelnut spread.
How to Make It:
Blend cacao powder with hazelnut milk or add hazelnut butter to your cacao drink.
Sweeten with maple syrup or stevia.
16. Cacao and Ginger Tea: Spicy and Invigorating
Ginger adds a spicy kick to cacao drinks, making them perfect for cold days or when you need a little extra warmth. This combination is also great for digestion.
How to Make It:
Brew fresh ginger slices in hot water.
Add cacao powder and stir well.
Sweeten with honey or agave.
17. Cacao and Rose Latte: A Floral, Luxurious Drink
This luxurious drink combines the rich flavor of cacao with the delicate aroma of rose. It’s perfect for special occasions or when you want to treat yourself.
How to Make It:
Mix cacao powder with hot water or milk.
Add a few drops of rose water or rose syrup.
Top with dried rose petals for garnish.
How to Choose the Right Cacao Product for You
When selecting cacao products, consider the following:
Form: Nibs for brewing, powder for lattes, or husks for tea.
Quality: Look for organic, fair-trade, and single-origin options.
Flavor Profile: Choose bold, mild, or flavored varieties based on your preference.
| Product Type | Best For | Flavor Profile | Preparation Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cacao Nibs | Brewing | Bold, Chocolatey | Steep in hot water |
| Cacao Powder | Lattes | Smooth, Rich | Mix with milk |
| Cacao Husks | Tea | Light, Nutty | Steep like tea |
DIY Cacao Recipes to Try at Home
Simple Cacao Brew:
Ingredients: Cacao nibs, hot water, optional sweetener.
Instructions: Steep cacao nibs for 5-7 minutes, strain, and enjoy.
Cacao Latte:
Ingredients: Cacao powder, plant-based milk, cinnamon.
Instructions: Whisk cacao powder into steamed milk, top with cinnamon.
Cacao Cold Brew:
Ingredients: Cacao nibs, cold water, ice.
Instructions: Steep cacao nibs in cold water overnight, strain, and serve over ice.
FAQs About Cacao Coffee Alternatives
Q: Does cacao have caffeine?
A: Yes, but in much lower amounts than coffee.
Q: Is cacao suitable for people with caffeine sensitivity?
A: Yes, its theobromine provides a gentler energy boost.
Q: Can I drink cacao every day?
A: Absolutely, it’s a healthy and nutrient-rich option.
Q: Where can I buy high-quality cacao products?
A: Look for organic, fair-trade brands online or in health stores.
Conclusion
Cacao is more than just a coffee alternative—it’s a versatile, nutrient-packed superfood that can energize and nourish your body. With 17 cacao coffee alternatives to choose from, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re sipping a creamy cacao latte or enjoying a refreshing cacao cold brew, you’re making a choice that’s good for your health and your taste buds