What Is Buttercream Pu'er?
Buttercream is a flavored pu'er tea that blends aged pu'er with vanilla and caramel. The result is a full-bodied, caffeine-forward tea that many customers use as a coffee substitute. Despite its dessert-like taste, it has no calories, making it an appealing option for those who want a rich flavor without the sugar.
The base is a traditional pu'er from Yunnan, China, which undergoes aging and fermentation. This process gives pu'er its characteristic earthy notes, which in Buttercream are balanced by sweet vanilla and caramel. The tea is also described as a digestive aid and natural detoxifier, though these are general pu'er properties, not specific to this blend.
Buttercream Pu'er at a Glance
- Buttercream: Ingredients: pu'er tea, vanilla, caramel flavor The blend is simple and free of dairy, making it suitable for lactose-free, dairy-free, and vegan diets.
Buttercream - Buttercream: Steep Directions: steep 1-2 heaping teaspoon of tea per 8 oz boiling water, 205-212°F, for 3-5 minutes These parameters ensure you extract the full flavor without bitterness. Pu'er can handle near-boiling water, unlike delicate green teas.
- Buttercream: Available sizes: Small 50g, Medium 150g, Large 300g, XL 454g Choose based on how often you plan to drink it. A 50g bag is good for sampling; the XL size suits daily drinkers.
Flavor Profile and How to Enjoy It
The tasting notes are caramel and vanilla, with the earthy pu'er providing depth. Customers describe it as hearty and satisfying. Because the tea is caffeine-forward, it works well as a morning or afternoon pick-me-up, especially if you're cutting back on coffee.
Buttercream can be served hot or iced. It also takes milk, sugar, or honey well, so you can adjust it to your preference. The catalog notes it pairs well with food, making it a good breakfast tea.
Choosing the Right Size
Buttercream is available in four sizes. Your choice depends on how much you drink and whether you want to try it first.
- Small 50g (1.8oz): Best for first-time buyers or occasional drinkers. At the catalog price of $8.88, it's a low-cost way to sample the flavor.
- Medium 150g (5.3oz): A good middle ground for regular consumption without committing to a large bag.
- Large 300g (10.6oz): Suitable for frequent drinkers who want a steady supply.
- XL 454g (16oz): The most economical option for daily use. If you know you love the tea, this size saves you from frequent reordering.
What the Catalog Doesn't Tell You
The catalog does not specify the exact caffeine content or the precise age of the pu'er base. The health benefits mentioned (digestive aid, detoxifier, etc.) are general to pu'er teas, not specifically tested for this blend. If you have dietary restrictions beyond dairy, note that the ingredients list includes "caramel flavor" without specifying its source, so it may not be suitable for all allergen concerns. Always check with the manufacturer if you have specific questions.
