Our ingredients
At Barista Cacao, we believe that exceptional flavour begins with exceptional ingredients. That’s why we craft cacao using only the finest ingredients. Each component is thoughtfully selected to create a harmonious blend.
Ceremonial-grade cacao
We use two distinct varieties: Arriba Nacional from Ecuador, kept raw and tested for purity and Trinitario from Venezuela, gently heated to develop its natural, nutty depth.
Arriba Nacional
A bright, floral cacao known for its lightness and subtle acidity. We keep it raw, unroasted and unalkalised preserving its natural profile. Each batch is tested for safety, including microbial checks, without any need for further processing.
Trinitario from Venezuela
Richer and more full-bodied, this variety is gently heated. Not just for stability, but to deepen its natural flavour. The result is a warm, nutty note that rounds out the blend and gives Barista Cacao its signature depth.
What Is ceremonial-grade cacao?
Barista Cacao is crafted with ceremonial-grade cacao from smallholder farms in Latin America. For us, ceremonial-grade means working with the highest quality cacao varieties, traditionally grown in South and Central America, and honouring them by keeping them as close to their natural state as possible: non-alkalised, sometimes raw, never excessively heated, and minimally processed to preserve their natural flavour, character, and nutrients.
Organic functional mushrooms
Each serving contains 1,400–1,600 mg of Chaga, Reishi, and Lion’s Mane. We’ve added these mushrooms first and foremost to balance the flavour. Their natural earthiness softens the cacao’s acidity while also being rich in naturally occurring compounds such as beta-glucans and polyphenols, known for their antioxidant properties.
Types of organic mushrooms
Our Barista Cacao blend includes a selection of seven organic mushrooms:
- Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
- Shiitake (Lentinula edodes)
- Maitake (Grifola frondosa)
-Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus)
-Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
-Agaricus Blazei (Agaricus blazei)
-Cordyceps Militaris (Cordyceps militaris
Organic coconut blossom sugar
Each serving contains less than 3 grams of unrefined and organic coconut blossom sugar. Slightly caramel in character. Balanced, not dominant. Just enough to round the blend, never to cover it.
Glycemic Index
Coconut blossom sugar has a glycaemic index (GI) reported around 35, compared with roughly 60–65 for regular cane sugar.*
*Values are approximate and can vary depending on origin and testing methods.
Organic coconut milk powder
We include organic coconut milk powder to add a creamy texture and subtle richness to our blend.
• Creamy Texture: Enhances the mouthfeel, making your drink luxuriously smooth without the need for dairy.
• Dairy-Free: Ideal for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based alternatives.
Organic cinnamon
A touch of organic cinnamon adds a warm, aromatic note to our blend.
- Flavour Enhancement: Cinnamon’s sweet and spicy profile complements the richness of cacao, adding depth and complexity.
- Natural Spice: Sourced organically to ensure purity and full-bodied flavour without any artificial additives.
Himalaya salt
We use a pinch of Himalayan pink salt to balance the flavours. A small amount enhances the sweetness and brings out the nuanced flavours of cacao and cinnamon.
Find barista cacao near you
Barista Cacao is now served in more than 125 cafés that value quality, craft, and a good cup made with care.