4 out of 5 stars
Ooh, look, another Crio Brü flavour to try out! 😉
Before I get into my review, here are the usual basics.
Disclaimer:
I was awarded my packet of Crio Brü Pumpkin Spice via a competition that Crio Brü Australia held on Facebook. There was no requirement, upon winning, for me to publish a review. I am simply doing it as I am a reviewer and I do so love my Crio Brü.
Please note: My review is based solely on Crio Brü’s Pumpkin Spice blend. This is not a review of Crio Brü themselves or any other products, services or business they may offer.
Now, followers of my reviews will know that I don’t drink coffee (it gives me headaches and heart palpitations), but I did miss coffee very much… which is why I absolutely love Crio Brü as it’s like having coffee, but not.
It is a brilliant, organic, ethically produced coffee substitute made from Cacao Beans. To learn more about Crio Brü in general, please visit their website here.
My Review –
Crio Brü Pumpkin Spice is a special blend normally only found in the American packaging of Crio Brü (I think). It’s not a straight Cacao bean blend, but includes spices – like those used in America for their pumpkin pies – hence it being known as “Pumpkin Spice”. This might be a little confusing to Australians who have never heard of “Pumpkin Spice” and I had some of my friends worried I was drinking a coffee substitute flavoured of pumpkin. No… just the spices used. For more info on what “Pumpkin Spice” is all about, check out the Wiki explanation here.
As for the spice used in the Crio Brü Pumpkin Spice blend? The packet tells me it consists of cacao beans, cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. And I can tell you they are all ground up so no big chunky bits.
Best way to describe it for those not knowing about Pumpkin Spice, but maybe being into Chai like me is…. Think of it as a tame dirty chai. And for those who don’t know what that is… it’s a chai (tea spice blend) with coffee. But the spices in the Pumpkin Spice are rather tame in comparison to a true chai or dirty chai. It’s just the three spices I’ve listed, where a decent chai has a lot, lot more.
All the same, it is still a very tasty drink, reminds me of Christmas and all the German spiced biscuits and chocolates I love to consume at that time. So, yes it MAY be a “tame dirty chai” but that isn’t me saying it is a bland flavour. It is still very flavoursome. Very Christmasy for me!
Although Crio Brü can be used in baking as well as just drinking it, I will have to admit I’ve only used the Pumpkin Spice blend as a drink. I mean, yes, I think it would work absolutely brilliantly in a bliss ball – especially at summer/ Christmas party picnics – but I was only awarded a little bag and I am just enjoying drinking it way too much to share it in baking – or with the rest of the family. 😉
Though I will admit that since my nearly 13 year old daughter has mastered the kettle she has started drinking my Crio Brü!!!! No!!! And Pumpkin Spice is her favourite! Meaning Crio Brü Australia needs to stock more soon.
The good thing about Crio Brü is it is indeed perfectly fine for kids to eat or drink as it might taste like coffee but doesn’t give them any of the hyper, insane, headache craziness that coffee can give them. Heck, my kids don’t get to drink coffee or caffeinated soft drinks but they get the occasional Crio Brü – perfect for iced summer drinks.
Flavour wise, Crio Brü Pumpkin Spice is one of the mid-range blends. So it’s not as strong as the Cavalla French Roast blend, but not as mild as the plain Cavalla blend. I’d put it probably between the Vega Reál and Maracaibo for strength… but this will only make sense if you try them all and know your Brü like I do. 😉
Other than that, it is just the same as any of the other Crio Brü blends, meaning it is organic, gluten free, dairy free, non GMO, Vegan friendly, etc. So, basically, easy to make and safe to drink for you and the whole family.
Would I recommend this product to others?
Yes I would, but I would advise them of the spice content so they realise it’s not a straight coffee sub/ Crio Brü flavour. I can’t think of anyone personally who wouldn’t like the spices, but I am sure there are a few people who like their coffee substitutes straight. But yes, lovers of Crio Brü and dirty chai would love this blend.
Would I buy this product for myself?
Oh heck yes! I love it; love the spice nature and the Christmasy feel it gives my morning brew. I really do hope there is an opportunity for Crio Brü Australia to get it on a more regular basis as it is amazing!
In summary: A mid to mild blend that packs a nice and spicey Christmasy whallop. Highly recommend it.
Until next time,
Janis.
Janis's Journal 