Abstract: Tea leaves are extracted with a cyclic dextrin-containing liquid and this extract is dried to obtain an instant beverage. According to this process, valuable components of tea leaves or the like are effectively extracted by the cyclic dextrin-containing liquid, and extracted soluble and aromatic components are effectively protected by the cyclic dextrin when the extract is dried to form an instant beverage. The obtained instant beverage such as instant tea has excellent fragrance and flavor.