I've always been one for experimenting in the kitchen. One sun-drenched afternoon, while hiking in the Caribbean (one of my favorite places to explore!) I came across a vibrant Acerola cherry tree. The tartness of the cherries sparked an idea, and I thought: what if I could bring that burst of flavor to my morning cold brew? Thus, the Acerola Cherry Vanilla Cold Brew Zest was born! And trust me, it's a flavor explosion you won't want to miss. The combo is amazing!
This recipe isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about crafting an experience. It's about waking up to a beverage that invigorates your senses and sets a positive tone for the day. Think of it: the smooth, low-acid cold brew infused with the tart, fruity Acerola cherry, a hint of sweet vanilla, and a final, zesty citrusy note. It's complex and yet incredibly balanced.
What does this mean for you? It means you have the power to transform your daily coffee routine into something extraordinary. Forget the usual blah and embrace a drink that’s as unique and vibrant as you are. Ready to elevate your cold brew game? Let's get started!
Required Equipments
- Blender
- Coffee Grinder
- French Press or Cold Brew Maker
- Citrus Zester
- Measuring Cups and Spoons
- Serving Glasses
Acerola Cherry Vanilla Cold Brew Zest: Frequently Asked Questions
Acerola Cherry Vanilla Cold Brew Zest
Elevate your cold brew game with this Acerola Cherry Vanilla Cold Brew Zest recipe. Combining smooth cold brew coffee, tart acerola cherry puree, sweet vanilla, and zesty lemon, this drink is a refreshing and unique flavor explosion!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 1 servings
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- Grind the Coffee: Start by grinding your coffee beans coarsely. You want a consistency similar to sea salt. This is crucial for a smooth, sediment-free cold brew. I like to use a burr grinder for the most consistent results.
- Combine Coffee and Water: In your French press or cold brew maker, gently combine the ground coffee with the cold, filtered water. Stir it gently to ensure all the grounds are saturated. Don't over-stir – just enough to wet the grounds.
- Steep the Coffee: Cover the French press or cold brew maker and let it steep in the refrigerator for 16-18 hours. This slow steeping process is what gives cold brew its signature smoothness and low acidity. I usually start mine before bed so its ready the next afternoon.
- Prepare Acerola Cherry Puree: While the coffee is steeping, prepare the acerola cherry puree. If using fresh acerola cherries, pit them and blend until smooth. If using frozen, thaw them slightly before blending. You should end up with a thick, vibrant puree. I sometimes add a splash of water to help it blend if needed.
- Zest the Lemon: Using a zester, carefully remove the zest from one lemon. Be sure to avoid the white pith underneath, as it can be bitter. The zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the cherry and vanilla perfectly. I love the aroma of fresh lemon zest – it's so invigorating!
- Strain the Cold Brew: After steeping, strain the cold brew. If using a French press, gently press the plunger down. If using a cold brew maker, follow the manufacturer's instructions. For an extra-smooth result, you can strain the cold brew again through a cheesecloth-lined sieve. This step ensures you get rid of any fine sediment.
- Combine and Serve: In a serving glass, add 2-3 tablespoons of the acerola cherry puree. Pour the strained cold brew over the puree, leaving some room at the top. Add a few drops of vanilla extract and stir gently to combine. The color should be a beautiful, deep red-brown swirl.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Top with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest. You can also add a cherry or a small slice of lemon for extra visual appeal. Serve immediately and enjoy the refreshing and unique flavor of your Acerola Cherry Vanilla Cold Brew Zest! I like to serve mine over ice on a hot afternoon – it's the perfect pick-me-up.
📝 Notes
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 35 kcal
Protein: 1g
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fiber: 1g
Calcium: 5mg
