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Business Gifts

Looking for a delicious gift for your corporate customers? Are you looking to send an employee appreciation gift? Maybe you want to send a special thank you. Whatever the reason, we have you covered!

Red Cedar Coffee Co.’s seasonal gift sets are filled with our most popular in-house roasted coffee. Curated to make your gift recipient feel special, each gift set is carefully assembled, wrapped with a bow, and comes with a personalized note card bearing your message.

Download our Corporate Gifts Brochure to shop a selection of popular corporate gifts.

PICK YOUR GIFT

Pick a gift or let us help you find the perfect gift for your recipients! We can provide a quote to keep you on budget.

NOTE CARD & ENVELOPE

Send a gift that reflects your company’s brand. Each gift set will include your personal message in a note card.

ORDER EARLIER DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON

The holiday season is hectic! We recommend starting to consider holiday gifts during the fall to give yourself enough time to review your recipient list.

Contact us

Get started by reaching out at info@redcedarcoffee.com or by phone at (440) 260-7509 ext. 3.

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Visit Our New Roastery and Coffee Bar

It has been an exciting time at Red Cedar Coffee Co.

In July 2021, we broke ground on a new coffee roasting facility a little over half a mile away from our original location. For the last 10 years we had been operating out of two buildings—one as the coffee roastery and the other as our office/retail shop—and it was time for us to move to a permanent home.

On March 17, 2022, our new location was completed enough so that we could move our office and retail shop. After going through the approval process with the county health department and the city, we began selling drinks at our coffee bar.

Construction continued at the new building while we roasted coffee at the original location. Supply chain interruptions delayed the arrival of new equipment along with finalizing construction on the building.

By Thanksgiving weekend, we received the needed approval to begin roasting in the new building. Of course, this meant that we were going to have to move right in the middle of the busy holiday season. Certainly not what we initially planned earlier in the year!

On December 22, 2022, we dismantled our original roasting facility and relocated the heavy equipment with the help of a great group of riggers. This move included a one-ton roaster, towmotors, packaging equipment, tables, pallet racking, and pallets of green coffee and packaging supplies. Once at the new location, we worked to re-assemble the racking and equipment, connected the roaster to the gas and electric line, and vent it through the roof.

On December 31, 2022, we roasted our first batches of coffee in the new building. It was a perfect way to close out the year!

When you visit our location, you can enjoy a cup of coffee, or pick up a pound, just steps away from where it was roasted. Visit during the week and you might catch a glimpse of us roasting!

Red Cedar Coffee Co.

Roastery & Coffee Bar

1185 W Bagley Road, Berea, OH 44017

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Hello Pumpkin! A brief history of pumpkin spice.

We are entering the season of Pumpkin Spice everything. Adding this savory spice blend to a coffee or espresso just wakes up the senses to the fall.

This fall seasonal flavor has such a following that we were curious about the origins of this combination we decided to investigate.

What is pumpkin spice?

Pumpkin Spice is an aromatic spice blend of nutmeg, allspice, ginger, and cinnamon. While no pumpkin is typically used in this spice blend, the combination is typical for pumpkin pie, so the combination is commonly referred to as pumpkin pie spice.

Coffee and spice trade

The spices found in pumpkin spice were originated on a small group of islands in Indonesia, referred to as the “Spice Islands.”

During antiquity, the region around Indonesia traded to acquire these valuable spices. Ships embarking on the Spice Trade would pass through Yemen, specifically the port of Mocha, on their way to Europe and North Africa.

It was in Yemen where coffee was first grown commercially. Coffee shared the same cargo holds as spices as both became more widely traded.  

Interestingly, the coffee blend Mocha Java is considered the first blend and its name is a nod to coffee bring brought from the port city of Mokka in Yemen to the island of Java in Indonesia.

The Dutch East Indies Trading Company was established by the Dutch for trading spices. In the 1500s and 1600s the Dutch began planning coffee trees on the island of Java in Indonesia. The sheer size of the farms soon meant that Java was the largest coffee producer. Soon, coffeehouses began to spring up in cities like London and Vienna.

Pumpkin desserts in the US

In the 1700s and 1800s, pies in colonial America were often made with squash and fruit unlike the typical savory meat pies of England.  During this time pumpkin were typically consumed as roasted or baked, and to be enjoyed in soups or stews.

In Amelia Simmon’s cookbook, published in 1796, included a recipe for pumpkin pudding. This recipe included cream, sugar, nutmeg, and ginger—not unlike the ingredients of today’s pumpkin spice drinks.

By 1929, Libby’s, began offering a pureed canned pumpkin for making pumpkin pie at home. In 1934, McCormick branded this spice combination as “pumpkin pie spice”.

With the end of sugar rationing after World War II, the demand for pumpkin began to soar. However, most pumpkins grown in the US were for fall decorations and not the edible variety.

Pumpkin and coffee pairing

In 2003, Starbucks was given the credit for creating the pumpkin spice latte as part of their fall seasonal drink offerings. Part of the reason why the pumpkin spice latte was developed during this time was because it was still a novelty flavor.

Now, the demand for pumpkin spiced desserts has expanded to countless desserts including pumpkin scones, pumpkin breads, and pumpkin muffins.

So, sit back and enjoy a cup of pumpkin spice knowing that it is part of a long culinary tradition.

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Decaf Coffee and Roast Style

Ever notice a color difference between roasted decaf coffee beans and caffeinated coffee beans? If you have been enjoying regular coffee and have made the switch to decaf, you might be surprised that the decaf coffee bean looks darker than other caffeinated coffees you have enjoyed.

Swiss Water Processed decaf coffee beans are very different from other coffee beans. While there are several ways to decaffeinate coffee, Red Cedar Coffee Co. only roasts those that have been decaffeinated by Swiss Water Processed.

The decaffeination process takes place in British Columbia, Canada, before the green coffee beans arrive at Red Cedar Coffee Co.  To decaffeinate the coffee beans, the green coffee beans are soaked in hot water for around 8-10 hours to remove the caffeine. During this time the coffee beans swell, become porous, and the caffeine molecules move out of the swelled coffee bean. By using water, much of the flavor profile of the coffee bean remains. This process is chemical-free and removes 99.9% of caffeine from the bean. The newly decaffeinated green beans are dried and prepared for shipping to coffee roasters.

The decaffeination process affects the composition of the coffee bean. When we open a bag of green Swiss Water Processed decaf coffee prior to roasting, the coffee beans appear uniform in color but darker than green caffeinated coffee beans.

The bean density also differs between Swiss Water Processed decaffeinated coffee beans and regular coffee beans. Decaffeinated coffee beans have less density and are lighter because the caffeine compounds have been removed. The density changes impact how the decaf coffee bean can take heat during the roasting process. For this reason, there is a limit to how much heat a decaf coffee bean can take during roasting.

The outside color of the decaf coffee bean can be misleading. Therefore, we always check the internal color of the coffee bean for quality control. For each roast we pull a sample to evaluate color based on the Agtron scale. Coffee samples are ground and compared to a numerical scale—referencing how dark or light a coffee bean is. You can be assured that your decaf has met our specifications before it is packaged.

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Retail Store And Coffee Roastery Relocation Updates

Throughout 2022 we worked to relocate our roasting operations into our new building at 1185 W Bagley Road (.6 miles west of the original location) in Berea. We are happy to share that the move has been completed!

#1 RETAIL STORE

Our retail store is stocked with a variety of freshly roasted coffee and brewing equipment.

#2 COFFEE BAR

The coffee bar is open for drinks to go. Please visit the Coffee Bar page for our current drink menu. Our coffee bar shares space with our retail store which does not have indoor seating. Weather permitting, bistro tables will be set up on our outdoor patio. Winter update: patio is closed for the season.

#3 COFFEE ROASTING FACILITIES

We have relocating our coffee roasting operations into the new building.

#4 DRIVE THRU

The drive thru is open for drinks only. Pull up to the window to place your order. Please come inside if you would like packaged coffee.

Thank you for your continued support.

ADDRESS:

1185 W Bagley Road, Berea, OH

HOURS:

Monday-Friday 8am-4pm

Saturday 8am-1pm

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Fundraising

Coffee makes an excellent fundraiser

If you are looking for a unique fundraising idea for your school, non-profit, university, PTA, or club, consider a coffee fundraiser.

Coffee is easy to buy and sell. It is estimated that over 60% of Americans drink coffee daily with many enjoying coffee at home.


Our fundraising program highlights:

  • No startup fees
  • Roasted to order specialty coffees
  • A selection of regular, Swiss Water Processed decaf and flavored coffees
  • Option for whole bean or ground coffee
  • Shelf stable product
  • Coffee available at our roastery within 3 weeks of receiving the master order

How to Get Started

  • Download our Fundraising Brochure.
  • Designate one representative as the point person for your fundraising effort and reach out to us.
  • Let us know how many participants you have and dates for your fundraiser.

Contact us

Send an email to fundraising@redcedarcoffee.com or call us at 440.260.7509 to schedule your organization’s fundraiser.

We will go over your fundraising ideas and help craft a fundraiser for your organization.

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Avoid these top coffee brewing mistakes

Coffee is a great way to wake up, however, several coffee brewing factors can affect your morning cup.

Here are the top three coffee brewing mistakes to avoid:

  • Not properly storing coffee

Whether you pre-grind your coffee or grind whole beans before brewing, the key to freshness is storing your coffee properly.

Coffee can quickly absorb odors and so you will want to keep your coffee at room temperature, in an airtight container, away from spices and direct sunlight.

Avoid storing your coffee in the refrigerator or freezer as cold temperatures can stress the packaging and create cracks exposing the coffee to air.

  • Mismatching your grind style

Each coffee brewing machine requires a different style of grind to optimize the taste of the coffee. Grind your coffee too fine for your coffeemaker, you run the risk of having bitter coffee. Grinding coffee too coarse and you will find your coffee is almost tea-like or watered-down.

On a standard commercial coffee grinder, the dial shows 8 grind styles, from coarse to Turkish. Be sure that your coffee grind matches with the style of coffee brewer you will be using.

Most home coffee makers are suited for auto-drip. However, if you are brewing using a pour over, you will want your coffee ground fine. If you are brewing using the French press or cold brew you will need a coarse grind.

If you like to use the Chemex, depending on how much coffee you are brewing at once you will have to adjust the grind size. This way you do not run the risk of over extracting your coffee during the brewing process.

  • Not using clean coffee brewing equipment

Using a clean coffee grinder and coffee maker can dramatically improve the taste of your home brewed coffee.

Over time, oils and coffee grinds build up and can leave off-tasting flavors in your equipment. By using coffee equipment cleaners and regularly cleaning your brewing equipment you help extend the life of your coffee brewer and grinder. We recommend cleaning your brewing equipment at least once a month.

Avoiding these three mistakes and you will be well on your way to enjoying your coffee at home.

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Road trip! Tips for brewing coffee while traveling

“He who would travel happily must travel light.” -Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, French poet and aviator

So, you’re going on a trip? Regardless of if the trip is an early morning drive or late-night arrival, no adventure is complete without your favorite coffee. For this reason, we wanted to provide some tips for packing light while keeping the full flavor of life.

PACKING YOUR BREWING KIT

With so many brewing devices on the market. If your travels have you staying in a hotel or Airbnb, you will have different needs than if you are camping.

First, ask yourself some questions:

  • Will you have access to electrical outlets for a small water kettle heater? Will you be able to heat up water at a campsite?
  • Do you plan on taking a small grinder or pre-ground coffee on your trip?
  • Do you prefer an espresso-like shot of coffee or do you need to brew for multiple cups?
  • Do you prefer brewing with or without a paper filter?

You will want to assure your equipment arrives at your destination in one piece. If you are flying, you’ll need something a bit sturdier than if you are driving to your destination.

TRAVEL LIGHT

Now is not the time to get bogged down by heavy and fragile equipment.

Manual brewers, like the AeroPress are small and packable which make them a backpacker’s favorite.  If you use a French press, you do not have to worry about bringing paper filters and you can brew enough coffee to share.

Give some thought on if you want to take a coffee grinder with you or if you prefer the convenience of pre ground coffee.

DURABILITY

Err on the side of caution. Select coffee gear that will stand up to the rigors of life on the road. Stainless steel can get dinged, but you should still be able to brew your coffee just fine.

TRAVEL FRIENDLY GEAR INCLUDE:

The AeroPress

  • Small, compact, and easy to stash in a day pack or luggage
  • It’s easy to clean and you have the flexibility of brewing a single espresso-like shot or add hot water to craft an Americano-style coffee.

Stainless Steel French Press

  • The Planetary Design French press allows you to brew your coffee and drink out of the French press because of their bru-stop. This press features a plate that separates the coffee from the coffee grounds.
  • The double wall stainless steel is durable and will keep your coffee hot. There is even a model that you brew your coffee and can drink from the press, too!

Hario Skerton Plus

  • This grinder is perfect for small luggage and does not require electricity. This is a great option for those who want to continue grinding their coffee beans before brewing.
  • The grinder base doubles as a storage container for ground coffee.

Electric kettle

  • Available in a variety of sizes and materials. A great option for those who do not have access to a stove or campfire.

HAVE FUN!

Now that you have your coffee kit assembled, it is time to test it out on your first trip.

Remember, adventure is the flavor of life. As your trip needs evolve, we are here to help enhance the flavor of your adventure!

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How to store your coffee to keep it fresh

Tips for getting the most out of your coffee.

You have taken the time to select your coffee and now you have brought them home. Now how do you store your coffee?

Here are some helpful tips for storing your coffee so that you get the most out of it.

The original packaging does a pretty good job keeping your coffee beans fresh.
When you purchase coffee from Red Cedar Coffee Co. you will notice a one-way valve on the front of your bag. This valve releases gas from the coffee beans while keeping oxygen out of the bag.

The foil bag protects the coffee beans from moisture and light. It is always best to open one bag of coffee at a time.

Grind your coffee right before you brew.
To maximize the lifetime and flavors of your coffee you will want to grind your coffee right before brewing it. Coffee grinding releases gases and aromas which are important when you brew coffee.

Keep your coffee at room temperature.
Coffee beans can be sensitive to temperature, moisture, and air.

Store your coffee away from spices as coffee can quickly absorb odors. If placed in a cabinet, be sure it is away from the oven.

We suggest keeping your coffee beans at room temperature out of direct sunlight.

While there are various opinions around this topic, we feel that freezing coffee does not help your coffee in the long term. Freezer burn, the potential for packaging to develop micro cracks, condensation and then forgetting it is in the freezer, it is best to keep your coffee at room temperature.

Airtight containers are coffee’s best friend.
The best way to keep your coffee fresh is to remove the air from your storage container. We are fans of the AirScape. The AirScape container has an inner lid with air-valve that forces air out and locks freshness in. The AirScape works great for both whole bean and ground coffee which makes us love it even more.

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Red Cedar Coffee Co. Set to Break Ground on New Coffee Roasting Facility

BEREA, OH-Red Cedar Coffee Co. will hold the groundbreaking ceremony for their new coffee roasting facility on Thursday, July 29 at 10am at 1185 West Bagley Road, Berea.

The new facility will serve as Red Cedar Coffee Co.’s headquarters and house their coffee roastery, green coffee storage, coffee & espresso bar and drive-through. The new location will allow Red Cedar Coffee Co. to offer coffee specific events and educational opportunities.

“We are extremely excited about the opening of our new coffee roasting facility. The building will act both as our headquarters and a home for all coffee lovers in the community.” Says Anne Denton, Director of Sales & Marketing.

The new location will have an expanded retail area which will include a coffee and espresso bar. The menu will feature coffee and espresso based beverages along with light pastries.

The building has been designed by Michael Molchan, AIA of Makovich & Pusti in Berea and is expected to open in early 2022.

About Red Cedar Coffee Co.

Red Cedar Coffee Co. is a specialty coffee roaster based in Berea, OH. Founded in 2005, Red Cedar Coffee Co. has supplied wholesale and retail customers nationwide. Coffee offerings include direct trade, Fair Trade certified organics, blends, Swiss Water Processed decaf and flavors. For more information, please visit: www.RedCedarCoffee.com.

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