12 Odd Coffee Combinations You’ll Want to Try

Coffee isn’t just a morning pick-me-up; it’s an experience that spans cultures and tastes. You may have tried the classic latte or espresso, but have you ever considered experimenting with odd coffee combinations? Exploring unique coffee recipes can open up a whole new world of flavors and sensations.

Imagine combining espresso with tonic water for a refreshing twist, or mixing beetroot and blue algae with coconut milk for a visually and tastefully stunning drink. These combinations may sound outlandish, but they offer an exciting departure from your regular cup of joe.

By diving into these unconventional coffee recipes, you’ll not only surprise your taste buds but also impress your friends. Keep reading to discover some of the most intriguing and delicious odd coffee combinations from around the world.

Coffee and Tonic Water

The mix of coffee and tonic water is gaining popularity. This unique combination merges the bold flavor of coffee with the fizz of tonic water. You get a refreshing summer drink.

For a simple recipe, you need:

• Ice cubes
• Tonic water (200ml)
• Espresso shot (1)

Steps:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Add the tonic water.
3. Slowly pour the espresso over the tonic.
4. Gently stir.

You can use cold brew coffee for a smoother taste. This method reduces bitterness.

For a cold brew tonic, you need:

• Cold brew concentrate (60ml)
• Tonic water (200ml)
• Ice cubes
• Luxardo maraschino cherries (optional)

Steps:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour in the cold brew concentrate.
3. Add tonic water.
4. Garnish with cherries if desired.

Some like to add a citrus twist. A squeeze of lemon or a slice of orange works well. It adds a refreshing zing.

Here’s a variation with a boozy kick:

• Espresso (1 shot)
• Tonic water (200ml)
• Gin (30ml)
• Ice cubes

Steps:

1. Add ice cubes to a glass.
2. Pour tonic water and gin.
3. Slowly add the espresso.
4. Stir gently.

Feel free to adjust sweetness with simple syrup.

Experiment with different coffee beans and tonic brands. This drink offers both versatility and a refreshing twist on your regular coffee routine. Enjoy exploring new flavors with this compelling combination.

Coffee and Orange Juice

Combining coffee and orange juice may seem unusual, but it creates a refreshing drink. The blend brings together the boldness of coffee and the citrusy tang of orange juice.

To make this drink, start with these steps:

Ingredients:

• 6 oz. orange juice
• 2 oz. espresso or strongly brewed coffee
• Ice

Instructions:

• Pour orange juice over ice.
• Add the espresso or brewed coffee.
• Stir gently to combine.

Cool the coffee before mixing. This ensures a smooth meld of flavors without diluting the coffee too much.

Another variation uses a 1:1 ratio of coffee and orange juice. Adjust the quantities to suit your taste.

For a different twist, try adding orange syrup instead of juice. Combine it with club soda or ginger beer to create a summer spritz.

Experimenting with the ratios can provide a blend that best suits your preference. This combination offers a unique, enjoyable experience and a break from traditional coffee beverages.

Coffee and Lemonade

Coffee and lemonade might sound like an unusual combination. This mix creates a refreshing and unique drink. For coffee enthusiasts looking for something new, this blend is worth trying.

Thunderbolt Coffee Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cold brew coffee
• 2/3 cup lemonade
• Simple syrup (optional, to taste)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Combine cold brew coffee and lemonade in a glass.
2. Add simple syrup if you want extra sweetness.
3. Fill the glass with ice.
4. Stir well and serve.

Iced Coffee Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 1 cup cooled coffee or cold brew
• 1/2 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tbsp sugar or honey
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Combine cooled coffee, lemon juice, and sugar in a Mason jar.
2. Shake thoroughly.
3. Pour into a glass filled with ice.
4. Garnish with a lemon slice.

Naturally Sweetened Coffee Lemonade

Ingredients:

• 1 shot of espresso
• 1/2 cup lemon juice
• Stevia (to taste)
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Combine espresso, lemon juice, and stevia in a shaker.
2. Shake until frothy.
3. Pour into a glass with ice.
4. Garnish with a lemon wedge.

Adjust the sweetness to your preference. Enjoy the blend of tart lemonade and bold coffee.

Coffee and Coconut Water

Combining coffee and coconut water creates a unique beverage. Coconut water adds a hint of sweetness and a refreshing twist. This blend suits those who seek a lighter coffee option. Coconut water’s hydrating properties enhance the drink.

Simple Coconut Water Iced Coffee Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of cold brew coffee
• 1 cup of coconut water
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
2. Pour cold brew coffee over the ice.
3. Add coconut water and stir.

Hot coffee can also be paired with coconut water. This combination might surprise you. It’s a blend of warm and tropical flavors. Coconut water’s subtle saltiness complements coffee’s richness.

Hot Coconut Water Coffee Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of brewed hot coffee
• 1/2 cup of coconut water

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of hot coffee.
2. Pour in 1/2 cup of coconut water.
3. Stir well.

Many find this combination appealing. Try it to discover a new favorite. It’s easy to prepare. It offers a fresh taste.

Coconut water and coffee create a balanced blend. It’s both energizing and hydrating. Perfect for a summer day or a refreshing change.

Coffee and Cola

Combining coffee and cola may seem unconventional, but it creates a refreshing and energizing drink. The mix combines the rich bitterness of coffee with the sweet, fizzy nature of cola.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup (8 ounces) black coffee, chilled
• 1 cup (8 ounces) cola
• Ice cubes
• Lemon slice (optional)

Instructions:

1. Brew Coffee: Prepare 1 cup of black coffee. Let it cool to room temperature.
2. Combine with Cola: In a glass, combine the chilled coffee with 1 cup of cola.
3. Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes.
4. Garnish: Optionally, add a lemon slice for extra zing.

You will find the mix of coffee and cola invigorating. This combination offers a unique taste and can be a refreshing midday pick-me-up.

Experiment with proportions. Some people prefer more coffee than cola, and vice versa. Adjust to suit your taste. Enjoy this unusual and interesting beverage.

Coffee and Butter (Bulletproof Coffee)

Bulletproof coffee has gained popularity as a unique coffee and butter combination. This drink combines coffee with healthy fats, offering a rich and creamy texture.

Basic Bulletproof Coffee Recipe:

• 12 to 16 ounces hot coffee
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon MCT oil or coconut oil

1. Brew your coffee.
2. Add butter and oil to the coffee.
3. Blend until frothy.

Variations:

Spicy Cinnamon Version:

• 8 to 12 ounces hot coffee
• 1 tablespoon butter
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pinch of sea salt
• Steps: Brew coffee, add ingredients, blend until frothy.

White Chocolate Version:

• 8 to 12 ounces hot coffee
• 1 tablespoon cacao butter
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of sea salt
• Steps: Brew coffee, add ingredients, blend until frothy.

Additional Options:

• Optional Add-ins: Fair-trade cocoa, slippery elm, gelatin, lavender or mint essential oils (not with cinnamon), protein powder.

Tips:

• Start with smaller amounts of butter if new to this drink.
• Experiment with different oils and add-ins to find your preferred taste.

Coffee and Egg Yolk (Vietnamese Egg Coffee)

Vietnamese Egg Coffee is a unique coffee combination. It brings together rich coffee and a creamy egg yolk mixture. This drink offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures.

To make Vietnamese Egg Coffee, you need specific ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 cup of strong espresso or Vietnamese coffee
• 1 egg yolk
• 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk
• ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract

Follow these instructions to prepare the coffee:

1. Brew the coffee: Use strong espresso or Vietnamese coffee. Keep it hot.
2. Whip the egg mixture: In a small bowl, combine the egg yolk, sweetened condensed milk, and vanilla extract. Whisk vigorously for 5-10 minutes until it becomes pale and frothy.
3. Assemble the drink: Pour the brewed coffee into a cup. Gently spoon the whipped egg mixture on top of the coffee.

Coffee and Mint

Mint Coffee is both refreshing and invigorating. The combination of mint and coffee creates a unique drink. Here are some simple recipes to try.

Mint-Infused Coffee:

• Brew 1 cup of your favorite coffee.
• Add 4-5 fresh mint leaves while the coffee is hot.
• Let it steep for a few minutes.
• Remove mint leaves and enjoy.

Mint Chocolate Coffee:

• Brew 1 cup of coffee.
• Add 2 tablespoons of chocolate syrup.
• Add 1-2 tablespoons of Crème de Menthe Syrup.
• Stir well and serve.

Iced Mint Coffee:

• Brew 1 cup of strong coffee.
• Let it cool down.
• In a glass, add ice, and pour the cooled coffee over.
• Add a handful of fresh mint leaves.
• Optional: Add milk or cream as needed.

Mint adds a vibrant touch to your coffee. Whether hot or iced, mint coffee refreshes your senses. Try these recipes and discover a new way to enjoy coffee!

Coffee and Lavender

Combining coffee and lavender creates a unique drink. Many coffee lovers enjoy this blend for its aromatic and relaxing flavor. It’s perfect for both hot and iced beverages.

Try a Lavender Latte. You’ll need:

• 1 shot espresso
• 8 ounces steamed milk
• 1 tablespoon lavender simple syrup

Instructions:

1. Brew the espresso.
2. Steam the milk.
3. Add lavender syrup to the espresso.
4. Pour steamed milk over the espresso mixture.

For a refreshing Lavender Iced Coffee:

• 1 cup cold brew coffee
• 2 tablespoons lavender simple syrup
• Ice
• Splash of milk (optional)

Instructions:

1. Fill a glass with ice.
2. Pour in cold brew coffee.
3. Stir in lavender syrup.
4. Add a splash of milk, if desired.

These drinks offer a delicate balance. Lavender adds subtle floral notes without overpowering the coffee. It enhances the coffee’s natural flavors. Enjoy the soothing experience of this unusual combination.

Coffee and Cardamom

Adding cardamom to your coffee can give it a unique, aromatic flavor. This spice is commonly used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines and blends well with coffee’s robust taste.

Simple Cardamom Coffee Recipe

You need:

• 4 cardamom pods
• 1 cup of ground coffee
• Water

Instructions:

1. Split open the cardamom pods.
2. Add the seeds to your coffee grounds.
3. Brew as usual in your favorite coffee maker.

Cardamom Coffee Using French Press

For a different experience, use a French press.

Ingredients:

• 4 cardamom pods
• Ground coffee
• Water

Instructions:

1. Add coffee and cardamom pods to the French press.
2. Pour in hot water and let brew for 6 minutes.
3. Press and serve.

Turkish Cardamom Coffee

Another method is making Turkish-style coffee.

Ingredients:

• 5 ½ cups water
• Whole coffee beans
• 5 cardamom pods

Instructions:

1. Grind coffee beans and cardamom pods together.
2. Transfer the mix to the French press.
3. Boil water and pour over the mixture.
4. Let it brew, then serve.

Tips for Best Flavor

• Start with fewer cardamom pods.
• Adjust to taste.
• Optional: Add milk or sweeteners like maple syrup.

Coffee and Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper in coffee can surprise you with its flavor and added health benefits.

To make this unique drink, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of hot coffee
• 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder (optional)

Instructions:

• Brew your coffee as usual.
• Add the chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, and stir until mixed.
• Add a small pinch of cayenne pepper. Stir well.

Tip: Start with a small amount of cayenne. You can increase it to taste over time.

Both cayenne pepper and coffee have benefits.

Health Benefits:

• Boosts energy and concentration.
• Reduces risk of diabetes and obesity.
• Enhances liver function.
• Stimulates the nervous system to burn fat.

Nutrition experts say, combining these can be a smart choice.

You may need to try this recipe a few times. Adjust to find your preferred balance.

Many coffee lovers think the kick of spice is worth it. Give cayenne coffee a chance.

Coffee and Salt

Adding salt to coffee might seem unusual at first, but it offers a unique twist.

Salt can reduce bitterness. This happens because sodium ions that make up salt deactivate certain taste receptors on your tongue. These receptors are responsible for sensing bitterness.

Here’s a simple way to try this:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of brewed coffee
• A pinch of sea salt (about 1/8 teaspoon)

Instructions:

1. Brew your favorite coffee.
2. Add a pinch of sea salt.
3. Stir well and taste.

Feel free to adjust the amount of salt to your preference.

Salt can also bring out the coffee’s natural sweetness. By balancing the flavor profile, your drink feels smoother.

You might notice richer flavors with less acidity. This method is handy when your coffee is over-extracted or too bitter.

Give it a try. It could become a new favorite.