Start your morning with a tropical twist as bold coffee meets creamy coconut for a smooth and indulgent sip. Whether you prefer it hot, iced, or blended into a refreshing frappe, coconut coffee has a rich, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with warm spices, vanilla, or even chocolate. It’s a breeze to customize and a delicious dairy-free alternative to traditional lattes. If you’re looking for a cozy pick-me-up or a chilled escape from the heat, this coconut coffee recipe is about to become your new favorite ritual.
Table of contents
Ingredient lineup
The secret to an unforgettable coconut coffee? Fresh, high-quality ingredients that highlight its rich, nutty goodness. Below is everything you need to create a creamy, tropical-inspired cup, plus some options for customization.
The essentials
- Brewed coffee: a strong, bold coffee base pairs best with coconut’s natural sweetness.
(Substitute: espresso for a more intense flavor or decaf if you prefer a caffeine-free option.) - Coconut milk: adds creaminess and a subtle coconut flavor. Use full-fat for richness.
(Substitute: coconut cream for a thicker texture or light coconut milk for a lower-calorie version.) - Sweetener: balances the bold coffee and enhances the coconut flavor.
(Options: coconut sugar for a caramel-like taste, honey for a floral touch, or maple syrup for a hint of depth.)
Optional flavor boosters
- Vanilla extract: a teaspoon softens the boldness of the coffee and complements the coconut.
- Cinnamon: adds a warm, spiced note that pairs beautifully with coconut and coffee.
- Unsweetened cocoa powder: a sprinkle gives a mocha-like depth without overpowering the coconut.
- Coconut water: a splash enhances the tropical notes and lightens the texture.
Optional toppings
- Toasted coconut flakes: a crunchy finish that intensifies the coconut flavor.
- Whipped coconut cream: a dairy-free alternative to traditional whipped cream, adding an indulgent touch.
- Dark chocolate shavings: a hint of bitterness balances the creamy coconut and sweetener.
Optional finishes
- Ice cubes: for a refreshing iced version, chill the coffee and serve over ice.
- Coconut oil or MCT oil: a spoonful adds a silky texture and a boost of energy, great for bulletproof-style coffee.
Step-by-step directions
Making coconut coffee is simple, whether you prefer it hot or iced. Follow these steps for a perfectly creamy, flavorful cup.
Brew the coffee
Prepare a strong cup of coffee using your preferred method. A French press, drip coffee maker, or espresso machine works well. If making iced coffee, brew it slightly stronger to prevent dilution. Pour the coffee into a heatproof glass or mug, filling it about ¾ full.
Blend the coconut mixture
a blender, mix the coconut milk, sweetener, and flavor boosters like vanilla or cinnamon. Blend for about 20 seconds until smooth and frothy. This step adds creaminess and helps create that signature silky texture. If you want an ultra-rich texture, add a teaspoon of coconut oil or MCT oil before blending.
Create the layered effect
Slowly pour the blended coconut milk mixture over the coffee. For the best results, hold a spoon just above the coffee’s surface and pour the coconut mixture over the back of the spoon. This helps it float on top instead of mixing in immediately.
Add the finishing touches
Top with whipped coconut cream, then sprinkle with toasted coconut flakes for extra texture and flavor. If you love a hint of chocolate, add a light dusting of cocoa powder or dark chocolate shavings.
Serve and enjoy
Let the layers settle for a few seconds, then take a sip and savor the creamy coconut blending with the bold coffee. Stir if you like, or enjoy the delicate layers as they are.
Pro oh là là tips
Ready to make your coconut coffee even more irresistible? Try these creative twists and perfect pairings.
Customization and variations
- Try different coffee bases: use cold brew espresso for a smoother, less acidic taste, or go bold with a double shot of espresso.
- Turn it into a mocha: stir in 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings for a coconut mocha twist.
- Supercharge your coffee: blend in MCT oil or coconut oil for a silky, energizing drink that keeps you going longer
- Spice it up: infuse with cardamom, cinnamon, or a hint of ginger for a warm, aromatic experience.
- Chill it into a frappe: blend with ice for a thick, slushy coconut coffee frappe that’s perfect for warm days.
- Turn it into a coffeehouse treat: drizzle with caramel, sprinkle with toasted coconut, and enjoy a sip of paradise.
Servings and pairings
- Pair with a warm pastry: enjoy with a chocolate croissant for a rich, buttery contrast.
- Match it with breakfast: complement it with peanut butter banana pancakes for a hearty start to the day.
- Pair with a crunchy bite: sip alongside almond flour chocolate cookies for the perfect balance of creamy and crisp.
- Serve with a spiced treat: enjoy alongside iced oatmeal cookies for a touch of warmth from cinnamon and nutmeg, which complements the coconut beautifully.
- Create an elegant dessert moment: serve after dinner with rhubarb cookies or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Go full tropical: pair your coffee with fresh mango, pineapple, or papaya for a refreshing, sun-kissed combination.
Frequently asked questions
Is coconut coffee good for you?
Yes, coconut coffee can be a healthy choice, especially if made with unsweetened coconut milk and a natural sweetener. Coconut milk provides healthy fats that can support energy levels and keep you feeling full longer. If you add coconut oil or MCT oil, it can also promote mental clarity and sustained energy.
Do coconut and coffee go together?
Absolutely! Coconut and coffee are a match made in heaven. The creamy, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor of coconut balances the bold, roasted notes of coffee. Coconut milk adds richness, while coconut water provides a light, refreshing twist. Whether hot, iced, or blended, this pairing creates a smooth and indulgent drink with a tropical touch.
What does coconut coffee taste like?
Coconut coffee is smooth, creamy, and naturally sweet with a hint of nuttiness. It’s like a tropical vacation in a cup! The coconut milk balances the boldness of the coffee, creating a mellow, slightly tropical taste. If you add cinnamon, vanilla, or cocoa powder, it enhances the richness while keeping the coconut flavor subtle yet noticeable.
How many calories are in coconut coffee?
The calorie count in coconut coffee depends on the ingredients used. A basic version with black coffee and unsweetened coconut milk has around 40–50 calories per cup. If you add sweeteners, full-fat coconut milk, or coconut cream, it can range from 100 to 200 calories or more, depending on the serving size.
Why do people put coconut water in coffee?
Coconut water adds natural sweetness and a hint of tropical flavor while keeping the drink light and refreshing. Some people use it as a lower-calorie alternative to milk, while others enjoy its electrolytes, which help with hydration. It works best in iced coffee, creating a subtly sweet, energizing drink.
This coconut coffee is your ticket to a café-worthy drink at home, with rich coffee, creamy coconut, and just the right touch of sweetness. The rich coffee, creamy coconut, and perfect balance of sweetness create a drink that’s both comforting and refreshing. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy morning treat or an afternoon pick-me-up, this recipe is sure to impress. Want to make it your own? Try a different sweetener, add a sprinkle of cinnamon, or turn it into an iced delight.
I’d love to hear how you customized your coconut coffee—share your favorite variations in the comments!
Bon appétit!
Recipe card
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Coconut coffee
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 1 serving 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee
- ½ cup full-fat coconut milk
- 1 tablespoon sweetener (coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil or MCT oil (optional)
- Toppings: whipped coconut cream, toasted coconut flakes, cocoa powder (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Brew the coffee
Prepare a strong cup of coffee and pour it into a heatproof glass or mug, filling it about ¾ full.
2️⃣ Blend the coconut mixture
In a blender, combine coconut milk, sweetener, vanilla, cinnamon, and coconut oil (if using). Blend for 15–20 seconds until smooth and slightly frothy.
3️⃣ Create the layered effect
Slowly pour the blended coconut mixture over the coffee. Hold a spoon just above the coffee’s surface and pour the coconut mixture over the back of the spoon to help it float on top.
4️⃣ Add the finishing touches
Top with whipped coconut cream and toasted coconut flakes. Sprinkle with cocoa powder for an extra flavor boost.
5️⃣ Serve and enjoy
Let the layers settle for a few seconds before sipping. Stir if desired, or enjoy the layers as they are.
Notes
Pro oh là là tip: for an iced coconut coffee, chill the brewed coffee, then pour it over ice before adding the coconut mixture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes