What is Grateful Ape Cacao Brew?
A pure, single-origin cacao drink made from some of the world’s finest and rarest fine-flavor cacao, grown on a small family farm in Ecuador.
It all begins with hand-harvested Nacional (Arriba) cacao pods. The beans are carefully fermented on the farm using traditional methods that develop their signature floral and nutty notes, then are gently sun-dried.
Once they reach Salt Lake City, we small-batch roast, grind, and package the cacao with nothing added—no sugar, no fillers, no lecithin. What you get is 100% pure ceremonial-grade and fine-flavor cacao, ready to brew.
Enjoy it brewed on its own or mix it with your coffee grounds for a smoother, less acidic brew that delivers balanced, long-lasting energy powered by theobromine—no jitters and no afternoon crash.
Every cup is loaded with naturally occurring magnesium, antioxidants, and mood enhancing compounds to energize your body and sharpen your mind.
Pure Ecuadorian cacao. Thoughtfully crafted. Made for people who want to feel good about what they drink.
“We exist to upgrade your mornings with smooth energy, real ingredients, and intentional ritual — no spikes, no crash, no compromises.”
FAQ: All About Cacao Brew
What is Cacao Brew (Brewed Cacao)?
Cacao Brew, or brewed cacao, is a delicious nod to the ancient Maya and Aztec tradition of savoring cacao. Roasted, ground cacao beans are steeped like coffee to create a warm, inviting drink with rich, complex flavors with fruity, floral, or nutty notes. Unlike sugary cocoa mixes, brewed cacao is pure, free of additives, and highlights the natural depth of high-quality cacao, Grateful Ape is direct sourced from a small family farm in Ecuador, and earns the prestigious Fine Flavor Cacao label. You can brew it using a French press, pour-over, AeroPress, drip coffee maker (with a mesh filter), or even steep it like tea in a tea ball or mesh bag. It delivers a gentle energy boost from theobromine (200–400 mg per serving), lifts your mood, and supports gut health with prebiotic fibers. Enjoy it solo or mixed with coffee, tea or other drinks for a unique twist.
Where Does Cacao Come From, and What is Fine Flavor Cacao?
Cacao’s story begins over 3,000 years ago in the lush rainforests of Central and South America, where the Maya and Aztecs cherished it as the "food of the gods." Grown on the Theobroma (Greek for "food of the gods") cacao tree, cacao was once so valuable that it served as currency and a sacred drink. Today, the finest cacao thrives in equatorial regions like Ecuador, Madagascar, and Venezuela, where volcanic soils, ideal humidity, and expert farming create exceptional beans. Fine flavor cacao, making up less than 10% of global production, stands out for its vibrant fruity, floral, or nutty flavors, crafted through careful cultivation and fermentation. In contrast, commodity cacao from regions like West Africa (e.g., Ivory Coast and Ghana) prioritizes high yields, resulting in a simpler, earthier taste that lacks the complexity of fine flavor varieties.
Is Cacao Brew a Replacement for Coffee?
For some, brewed cacao is a fantastic coffee alternative, offering a smooth energy lift from theobromine (200–400 mg per serving) with minimal caffeine (10–30 mg, similar to decaf coffee). Its lower acidity makes it easier on the stomach, ideal for those avoiding coffee’s intensity. For others, it’s a perfect coffee companion, balancing acidity while adding a subtle dark chocolate flavor and nutrients that nourish both body and mind. Whether you switch to cacao or blend it with your morning brew, it’s a versatile and flavorful option.
From Where Does Grateful Ape Source Cacao Beans?
Grateful Ape sources its cacao from a small family farm in Ecuador, a region celebrated for producing some of the world’s finest Fine Flavor Cacao. This rare cacao, representing less than 10% of global production, is typically reserved for premium chocolate bars and top-tier brands. Grown in Ecuador’s equatorial climate, these beans deliver distinctive fruity, floral, or nutty flavors, reflecting centuries-old cacao traditions and an exceptional, carefully cultivated harvest.
Is Grateful Ape Cacao Brew “Ceremonial Cacao”?
Yes. Grateful Ape Cacao Brew is ceremonial grade.
How long does shipping take?
We typically process orders within 1-2 business days. Standard shipping takes 3-7 business days, and expedited shipping takes 1-3 business days.
Do you offer free shipping?
Yes! We offer free standard shipping on orders over $75 within the United States.
Do you ship internationally?
Currently, we only ship within the United States, but we're working on expanding our shipping options.
What is the return policy?
We will replace any items damaged in shipping or defective in manufacture.
How do I return a damaged or defective item?
Contact our customer service team at, Ape@GratefulApeBrew.com to initiate a return. We'll provide you with a return shipping label.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept all major credit cards, PayPal, and Shop Pay for secure checkout.
Can I modify or cancel my order?
Please contact us immediately if you need to modify or cancel an order. Once shipped, we cannot make changes.
Subscribe to our emails
Be the first to know about new collections and special offers.