Cold Brew Yerba Mate is a refreshing alternative for Mate Day. If you’re not a fan of yerba mate lattes, this tea is the ideal drink. The tropical flavor adds a fresh twist to the drink. It’s light, energizing, and perfectly refreshing.
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Cold brew Yerba mate recipe
Yerba mate is a caffeinated drink popular in Argentina, Paraguay, and Brazil. It is often served hot. However, cold brew yerba mate offers a different experience with a smooth, mild taste.

Cold brew yerba mate has several benefits. It reduces tannin extraction. This results in a smoother taste and less bitterness than hot brewing. The tea is also hydrating and ideal for warm days.
This iced yerba mate pairs well with many dishes, like avocado toast, cheese bread (chipá), empanadas, and cheese boards with cheddar or goat cheese. Other great options include alfajores, grilled chicken, seafood, and spicy foods like curry or tacos.
You can serve the iced yerba mate with light snacks like popcorn, crackers, and fresh salads. Sweet treats such as dark chocolate, citrus-based cakes, and traditional alfajores (dulce de leche cookies) also balance its herbal notes.
I’ll add pineapple for a tropical hint. Here is how to make cold brew yerba mate with pineapple juice. You’ll need 12 hours to cold brew yerba mate.

Tropical Cold Brew Yerba Mate
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons loose-leaf yerba mate
- 3 cups cold filtered water
- 1/4 cup pineapple juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 slice fresh ginger optional, for a subtle spice kick
- 1 teaspoon agave syrup or honey adjust to taste
- Ice cubes
- Fresh mint or pineapple wedges for garnish
Instructions
- Combine yerba mate, ginger slice (if using), and cold water in a jar or pitcher. Stir gently.
- Cover and let steep in the fridge for 12 hours.
- Strain the cold-brewed yerba mate into a clean pitcher. Discard the leaves and ginger.
- Stir in pineapple juice, vanilla extract, and agave syrup until well combined.
- Add ice cubes in 2 glasses and pour the cold brew yerba mate mixture over the top.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a pineapple wedge for a tropical flair.
Variations
This cold brew yerba mate drink can be enjoyed in various forms:
- Tereré is a traditional Paraguayan drink. It is made by infusing yerba mate with cold water or juice.
- Fill a gourd with yerba mate.
- Prepare cold water or juice with ice.
- Pour the cold mixture over yerba mate.
- Let it steep briefly.
- Sip through a glass and enjoy the refreshing taste.
- Flavored Variations
- Citrus blends include oranges, lemons, or grapefruits.
- Herbals like mint or chamomile create unique flavor combinations.
- Tereré Ruso uses cold juice instead of plain water for the sweetness and complexity. This version originated from Russian volunteers in Paraguay.
- Smoothies and Cocktails: Cold-brewed yerba mate is used as a base for smoothies and cocktails. Yerba mate is blended with fruits like bananas, berries, or mangoes.