What Does Acerola Taste Like?

Acerola, also called Barbados cherries or West Indian cherries, are cherry-like fruits known for their very high vitamin C content (1).

Although often used as a supplement, acerola can also be added to smoothies, drinks, and desserts for a flavor boost.

Acerola tastes sweet-tart and acidic, like a cross between sour apples and cranberries. It is also slightly astringent.

Acerola Taste

If you’ve never tried acerola before, you may have one of these commonly asked questions:

Does acerola taste good?

Well, that’s up to you and your own taste buds, but people who like sweet-tart flavors tend to enjoy the taste of acerola.

Is barbados cherry sweet or sour?

Acerola (also known as barbados cherry) is mostly sour with a hint of sweetness. Some people say it tastes like a cross between sour apples and cranberries.

Is acerola acidic?

On the pH scale, acerola ranges from 2.3 to 3.7, which is considered acidic. This is due in part to its high ascorbic acid (vitamin C) content (1, 2).

Acerola is only slightly less acidic than lemons, which have a pH between 2.0 to 3.0 (3).

What foods pair with acerola?

Acerola pairs well with other tart, acidic fruits, like strawberries and kiwi, as well as sweeter tropical fruits such as bananas and pineapple. Frozen acerola puree makes a nice addition to smoothies, just be sure to balance its tartness with something sweet.

Final thoughts

Acerola is a unique fruit with a sweet-tart flavor that’s perfect for smoothies, beverages, and even desserts like sorbets and muffins. 

Whether you’re looking to boost your vitamin C intake or simply want to enjoy some new flavors, give acerola a try!

Want to learn more about acerola?

Check out our in-depth post:
Acerola: History, Nutrition, & Uses

Amy Richter, MS, RDN

Amy Richter, MS, RDN Author at Nutritionist Answers

Medical Nutrition Board Member | Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Amy Richter is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist based in Missouri. She is an experienced nutrition writer and medical advisor for Healthline and Medical News Today.  Amy is passionate about all things food-related and enjoys translating complex science into easy-to-understand articles.

Credentials:

  • Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN)

Education:

  • M.S. in Nutrition Diagnostics - Cox College
  • B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics - Missouri State University

Experience:

  • Over 5 years of experience in food and nutrition journalism.
  • Medical reviewer for Healthline, Medical News Today, and other websites
  • Completed over 1,400 hours of supervised practice to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
  • Author on several popular blogs, routinely quoted in magazines and across the media.

 

Recent Posts by Amy Richter, MS, RDN:

Scroll to Top