The beauty of yaupon is its simplicity. You don’t need fancy tools or complicated steps—just leaves and water,. Whether you’re craving a warm morning cup or a pitcher of cool refreshment, steeping yaupon is as effortless as it is rewarding.
Hot Cup of Yaupon: A Cozy, Grounding Sip
Hot-brewed yaupon feels like a gentle exhale. The warmth of the cup, the aroma rising—it all invites you to slow down. And unlike traditional teas, yaupon won’t turn bitter if you leave the bag in a little longer.
How to brew a cup of hot yaupon:
- Bring water just off the boil (around 200°F).
- Add 1 yaupon tea bag or 1 tsp loose leaf per 14 oz cup.
- Steep 4-6 minutes.
Pro tip: One bag or scoop can be steeped multiple times—up to four cups of flavor!
Iced Cup of Yaupon: Smooth Energy on Ice
There’s nothing quite like pouring a glass of yaupon over ice on a long afternoon. Crisp, light, and naturally sweet without any bitterness, it refreshes without weighing you down.
How to brew iced yaupon:
- Fill pitcher with 3/4 of a gallon of water.
- Add 6 yaupon tea bags or 2 tablespoons of loose leaf.
- Steep for 10 minutes.
Pro tip: Save the teabags or loose leaves to be resteeped!
Cold Brew: Refreshment Without the Rush
Prepare a pitcher in advance, let it rest in the fridge, and you’ll have a gentle pick-me-up waiting whenever you need it. A little patience turns into a reward that’s crisp, naturally clean, and brimming with smooth caffeine—a lift that feels effortless.
How to cold brew yaupon:
- Fill pitcher with 3/4 of a gallon of water.
- Add 3 yaupon tea bags or 1 tablespoon of loose leaf.
- Place in fridge to steep overnight.
Pro tip: You can leave yaupon steeping as long as you like—its natural lack of tannins means it stays smooth and never turns bitter.
Steeping Tips:
You can steep the same leaves multiple times, each cup unfolding with its own depth and character. Don’t be afraid to play with the timing until you find the rhythm that feels just right for you.
- First Steep: 4-6 minutes
- Second Steep: 5-8 minutes
- Third Steep: 7-10 minutes
- Fourth Steep: 9-12 minutes
Happy Sippin'!
Hot or cold, yaupon is easy to make and even easier to enjoy. With smooth caffeine, no bitterness, and the ability to steep multiple times, it’s a simple way to keep refreshment close at hand throughout the day.
