CASCARA Las Lajas

🍒 Las Lajas Cascara — sun-dried coffee cherry infusion

Producers: Oscar & Francisca Chacón
Farm: Las Lajas
Region: Sabanilla de Alajuela, Costa Rica
Altitude: 1300–1500 m
Species: Arabica
Variety: Caturra / Catuai
Harvest: December to February
Harvesting Method: Hand-picked

About this cascara

In 2008, a major earthquake pushed Oscar and Francisca Chacón to rethink how they process their coffee. With water in short supply, they pioneered natural and honey processing in Costa Rica — now globally recognised as trailblazers.

Cascara, the dried outer fruit of the coffee cherry, has been brewed for centuries across Ethiopia, Yemen and Bolivia. Far from a by-product, it offers a vibrant cup with floral and fruity notes, somewhere between hibiscus, red berries and dried mango.

This cascara comes from the same cherries used in their renowned coffees. Naturally dried, it makes for a refreshing, caffeine-light infusion that celebrates the full potential of the coffee plant.

Bright, sustainable and full of flavour — a whole new way to enjoy coffee.

🫖 Recipe Card – How to Brew Cascara

Sun-dried coffee cherry infusion
Format: 200 g / Product: Cascara Las Lajas

🌡️ Basic Hot Brew (for 1 cup – 250 ml)

• 10 to 12 g of dried cascara

• 250 ml hot water (90–95°C / 194–203°F)

🍵 Hot Brew Method

1. Quickly rinse the cascara under cold water.

2. Place the cherries in a teapot or French press.

3. Add hot water.

4. Let steep for 5 to 8 minutes.

5. Strain and enjoy as is, or add a touch of brown sugar, honey, or a slice of orange.

📝 Optional: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cardamom, or citrus zest for a spiced twist.

🧊 Cold Brew Method (iced cascara)

1. Add 20 g of cascara to 1 L of cold water.

2. Steep in the fridge for 12 to 16 hours.

3. Strain and serve over ice.

🥭 Tip: Add fresh mango, a wedge of lime, or a sprig of mint for a refreshing summer drink.

🍹 Cocktail / Mocktail Inspiration

• Steep 30 g of cascara in 500 ml of hot water (90°C)

• Let steep for 10 minutes, then strain and chill

• Add 100 ml sparkling water or tonic + ice cubes

• Garnish with orange peel, lemon slice, or fresh ginger

✨ Result: A floral, fruity, naturally sweet and caffeine-light beverage.