Crafting the Best Cherry Coffee: Techniques, Ingredients, and Pro Secrets

Coffee lovers are always looking for exciting new ways to enhance their favorite brew, and cherry coffee is an innovative twist that combines the rich depth of coffee with the natural sweetness of cherries. Whether you prefer fresh cherries, cherry syrup, or even cascara (dried coffee cherry husks), this guide will walk you through the best cherry coffee recipe, helping you create a unique and flavorful drink at home.

In this article, we’ll cover:

• What is cherry coffee?

• Different ways to incorporate cherries into coffee.

• A step-by-step cherry coffee recipe.

• Tips for selecting the best coffee beans for cherry coffee.

• FAQs about cherry coffee.

Let’s dive into the world of cherry-infused coffee and explore how to brew a perfect cherry coffee recipe at home.

What is Cherry Coffee?

Cherry coffee is a delicious infusion of coffee with cherries, creating a unique blend of rich, deep flavors combined with the sweet, tart, and fruity notes of cherries. It can be made using fresh cherries, cherry syrup, cherry liqueur, or cascara (dried coffee cherry husks).

Some variations of cherry coffee include:

• Espresso with cherry syrup – A bold espresso shot with a touch of cherry sweetness.

• Cherry-infused cold brew – Cold steeped coffee with fresh cherries for a refreshing summer drink.

• Cherry coffee latte – A creamy and rich latte enhanced with cherry flavors.

• Cascara coffee – Brewed using dried coffee cherry husks for a mild, tea-like taste with fruity undertones.

Now that you know what cherry coffee is, let’s explore how to make it at home.

The Best Cherry Coffee Recipe: Step by Step

Ingredients

To make a delicious cherry coffee recipe, you’ll need:

• 1 cup of freshly brewed coffee (preferably high-quality Arabica or Fine Robusta from Bazan Coffee).

• ½ cup of fresh cherries, pitted and mashed (or 2 tablespoons of cherry syrup).

• 1 tablespoon of honey or sugar (adjust to taste).

• ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional for added depth).

• Ice cubes (for an iced version).

• Milk or cream (optional for a latte-style cherry coffee).

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cherry Mixture

If using fresh cherries:

• Mash the pitted cherries in a bowl until they release their juices.

• Add honey or sugar and let the mixture sit for 5 minutes.

If using cherry syrup:

• Skip the mashing process and simply mix the syrup into the coffee later.

2. Brew the Coffee

For best results, use a medium to dark roast coffee, such as:

• Fine Robusta – Krong Nang from Bazan Coffee for a bold, caramelized base.

• Special Vietnam Blend for a balanced, fruity coffee experience.

• Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat for a bright, floral note that complements the cherry flavors.

3. Combine the Coffee and Cherry Mixture

• If making a hot cherry coffee, pour the freshly brewed coffee over the mashed cherry mixture and stir well.

• If making an iced cherry coffee, add ice cubes to a glass before pouring in the coffee.

4. Add Final Touches

• Stir in vanilla extract for added depth.

• For a latte-style drink, steam and froth milk before pouring it over the cherry coffee mixture.

5. Enjoy Your Cherry Coffee

Serve immediately and garnish with a cherry on top for an elegant presentation.

Tips for Selecting the Best Coffee Beans for Cherry Coffee

The type of coffee you choose will significantly impact the flavor balance in your cherry coffee recipe. Here are the best coffee beans to pair with cherries:

1. Ethiopian Yirgacheffe – The Bright & Floral Choice

Why It’s Perfect for Cherry Coffee:

Ethiopian Yirgacheffe is known for its vibrant acidity, floral aroma, and fruit-forward flavors. Its inherent notes of berries, citrus, and jasmine naturally complement the sweetness and tang of cherries.

Best for:

Cherry coffee lattes, cascara-style brews, and cold brew cherry coffee. If you prefer a bright, aromatic, and floral cherry coffee, Yirgacheffe is an ideal match.

Flavor Pairing:

The high acidity and delicate floral tones of Yirgacheffe enhance cherry’s fruitiness without overpowering it, making it a refined choice for those who appreciate complex, layered coffee flavors.

2. Colombian Supremo – The Balanced & Smooth Option

Why It’s Perfect for Cherry Coffee:

Colombian Supremo beans offer a medium body with balanced acidity, which allows the cherry flavors to shine while still maintaining a classic, smooth coffee profile. The subtle hints of chocolate, caramel, and red fruit create a naturally harmonious blend with cherry’s sweetness.

Best for:

Hot cherry coffee, cherry-infused espresso, and cherry cold brew. If you prefer a well-rounded, smooth, and slightly nutty cherry coffee, Colombian Supremo is a great fit.

Flavor Pairing:

Its mild acidity and creamy mouthfeel provide the perfect base for a rich cherry-infused coffee, allowing for both warmth and depth in the final cup.

3. Kenyan AA – The Bold & Fruity Powerhouse

Why It’s Perfect for Cherry Coffee:

Kenyan AA beans are bold, wine-like, and packed with fruit-forward complexity. Their blackberry, red currant, and citrus zest notes intensify the fruity elements of cherries, resulting in a punchy, full-bodied coffee experience.

Best for:

Black cherry coffee, espresso-based cherry drinks, and cherry coffee cocktails. If you love strong, intense, and juicy coffee flavors, Kenyan AA is an excellent match.

Flavor Pairing:

Kenyan AA’s deep fruitiness and full-bodied profile create an explosive contrast when paired with cherry syrup or fresh cherries, making it an exciting option for adventurous coffee drinkers.

FAQs About Cherry Coffee

1. What is coffee with cherries called?

Coffee mixed with cherries can go by several names, such as cherry coffee, cascara coffee (if using dried coffee cherries), or espresso cherry latte when combined with steamed milk.

2. Can I use dried coffee cherries (cascara) instead of fresh cherries?

Yes! Cascara coffee is a great alternative, offering a naturally tea-like, fruity, and slightly floral flavor. Simply steep dried coffee cherry husks in hot water like tea, then mix it with coffee.

3. How does cherry coffee taste?

Cherry coffee combines rich, bold coffee flavors with fruity, sweet, and slightly tart cherry notes. Depending on the coffee bean and brewing method, the taste can range from chocolatey and smooth to bright and tangy.

4. What is the best way to sweeten cherry coffee?

Honey, vanilla syrup, or natural cherry syrup work best as sweeteners, as they enhance the fruitiness without overpowering the coffee.

5. Can I make cherry coffee with cold brew?

Absolutely! Steep coarsely ground coffee with fresh cherries or cherry syrup in cold water for 12-24 hours, then strain and serve over ice. This method produces a smooth, refreshing cherry cold brew.

Elevate Your Coffee Experience with Bazan Coffee

At Bazan Coffee, we believe that the key to exceptional cherry coffee starts with premium coffee beans. Whether you’re experimenting with fresh cherry espresso, cascara coffee, or cherry-infused cold brew, the right coffee enhances and complements the natural fruit flavors.

Unlike mass-produced brands, Bazan Coffee carefully sources and roasts beans to bring out their unique complexity. Whether you prefer a bold and rich base, a balanced and smooth blend, or a bright and floral experience, our Vietnamese Fine Robusta and high-altitude Arabica ensure the perfect cherry coffee experience.

The New Revolution: Fine Robusta from Vietnam

For years, Robusta coffee has been underestimated, but Vietnam’s Fine Robusta is redefining specialty coffee. With high-altitude cultivation, advanced fermentation techniques, and meticulous processing, Bazan Coffee’s Fine Robusta – Krong Nang delivers exceptional body, caramelized sweetness, and a creamy mouthfeel - perfect for a bold, full-bodied coffee with natural fruit undertones.

Why Choose Fine Robusta – Krong Nang for a Fruity, Rich Coffee?

• Grown at 650m in Krong Nang, Dak Lak, where volcanic soil and ideal climate conditions enhance the bean’s depth and complexity.

• 72-hour natural anaerobic fermentation, unlocking deep caramelized sweetness, honey-like smoothness, and a rich crema.

• Naturally low acidity with a bold body, making it ideal for balanced, fruit-forward coffee flavors.

• Higher caffeine content than Arabica, providing an energizing and intense coffee experience with lingering chocolatey undertones.

If you enjoy a rich, naturally sweet coffee with layered complexity, Fine Robusta – Krong Nang is the perfect choice.

Not Just Robusta – The Best of Both Worlds

For those who prefer a balanced and aromatic coffee experience, Bazan’s Special Vietnam Blend offers the ideal combination of smoothness and strength. By blending high-altitude Arabica with Fine Robusta, this unique coffee creates a harmonious flavor profile, making it versatile for different brewing styles.

Special Vietnam Blend: A Perfect Balance of Strength and Smoothness

• A fusion of high-altitude Arabica’s bright acidity and Fine Robusta’s bold depth, creating a smooth, full-bodied coffee.

• Tasting notes of pineapple, floral aroma delivering a well-rounded coffee with natural sweetness.

• Versatile for various brewing methods, from pour-over and espresso to cold brew.

If you enjoy a coffee that balances complexity with smoothness, Special Vietnam Blend is the perfect choice.

For a More Refined and Elegant Brew: Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

For those who prefer a lighter, more refined coffee, Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat delivers an elegant, aromatic experience.

Why Choose Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat?

• Grown at 1,550m in Cau Dat, Da Lat, one of Vietnam’s most celebrated high-altitude coffee regions.

• Fully washed processing, ensuring clarity of flavor, clean acidity.

• Tasting notes of bell pepper, spices, and caramel, creating a delicate, layered coffee that shines in both black coffee and milk-based drinks.

If you prefer a bright, nuanced coffee with floral and spicy undertones, Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat is your best choice.

Which Coffee Should You Choose?

• For a bold, full-bodied coffee with deep caramelized sweetness → Fine Robusta – Krong Nang

• For a balanced, smooth coffee with fruity brightness and floral aroma → Special Vietnam Blend

• For a bright, refined coffee with floral complexity → Specialty Arabica – Cau Dat

Your coffee journey starts with premium beans. Whether you love the bold intensity of Fine Robusta, the balanced complexity of Special Vietnam Blend, or the refined elegance of Cau Dat Arabica, Bazan Coffee ensures that every sip is a celebration of Vietnam’s finest coffee.

Shop Bazan Coffee today and discover the perfect coffee for your next brew!