15 Best Alternative Coffee Drinks

Tired of your usual coffee routine and craving something new? Discover 15 alternative coffee drinks that will revolutionize your mornings and satisfy your adventurous palate. With expert tips and unique recipes, this guide offers innovative ways to enjoy your favorite beverage, whether you’re looking to cut back on caffeine, add a burst of flavor, or simply try something different.

Dive in and find your next coffee obsession!

Matcha Latte

Matcha latte is a popular alternative to traditional coffee. It’s made with powdered green tea. It offers a unique taste and moderate caffeine content.

Ingredients

• 1 tsp matcha powder
• 2 tsp hot water
• Sweetener of choice (like stevia or honey)
• 1 cup dairy-free milk (such as almond or oat milk)

Instructions

• Add 1 tsp matcha powder to a small bowl.
• Pour 2 tsp hot water over the matcha.
• Whisk with a bamboo or metal whisk until no clumps remain.
• Heat 1 cup of dairy-free milk.
• Froth the milk using an espresso machine or microwave.
• Pour the frothed milk over the whisked matcha.
• Sweeten as desired.

Matcha contains 19-44 mg of caffeine per gram. A 2-ounce serving has 38-88 mg of caffeine. This compares to 96 mg in an 8-ounce cup of coffee. Matcha latte provides energy without the jitters. It also has antioxidants from the green tea.

Starbucks offers an iced matcha latte. This drink has 80 mg of caffeine in a grande size. They use regular milk, but you can request a dairy-free option.

If you dislike coffee’s taste, you may enjoy matcha latte’s earthy flavor. It’s a versatile drink, easily customized with different milk and sweeteners.

Matcha latte is perfect for those seeking a flavorful, moderate caffeine boost.

Chai Latte

A chai latte is a flavorful alternative to coffee. It combines spices with tea to create a comforting drink.

Ingredients

• 1 cup of oat milk or almond milk
• 1 tea bag of black tea or chai tea
• 1 tablespoon of chai spices (cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cloves)
• Sweetener of your choice (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small saucepan, mix the oat milk and chai spices.
2. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the tea bag and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Remove from heat and let it rest for 1 minute.
5. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer into your mug.
6. Add sweetener if desired.

Additional Tips

• Adjust Spice: You can modify the amount of each spice to suit your taste.
• Milk Alternatives: Try coconut or soy milk for a different flavor.
• Iced Option: Allow the mixture to cool and serve over ice for an iced chai latte.

This drink is a delightful way to start the day or enjoy as an afternoon treat.

Golden Milk Latte

Golden Milk Latte, a popular coffee alternative, offers a delightful mix of flavors and health benefits. This drink is a blend of milk and spices, mainly turmeric, which gives it a characteristic golden color.

To prepare a Golden Milk Latte, follow these steps:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or preferred sweetener

Instructions:

• Cook on Stovetop: In a small saucepan, combine milk, turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, and ginger.
• Bring to Boil: Heat the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
• Simmer: Let it simmer for about 3 minutes while whisking.
• Sweeten: Stir in maple syrup or another sweetener.
• Serve: Pour into a mug and enjoy. Use a frother for extra foam if desired.

Golden Milk Latte can be served hot or cold. Adjust the sweetness and spice levels to your liking. This drink not only tastes great but also incorporates the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric.

Beetroot Latte

Beetroot latte is a vibrant and healthy alternative to traditional coffee. It’s caffeine-free and provides numerous health benefits.

To make a beetroot latte, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon beetroot powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon coconut sugar
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1/4 cup coconut milk

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine beetroot powder, cinnamon, ginger, vanilla, and coconut sugar.
2. Add 4 tablespoons almond milk to the mixture to create a smooth paste.
3. In a saucepan, mix the paste with the remaining almond milk and coconut milk.
4. Heat over medium, stirring frequently, until hot (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Froth the mixture if desired. Pour into a mug, sprinkle with beet powder or cinnamon, and enjoy.

Mushroom Coffee

Mushroom coffee blends traditional coffee with medicinal mushrooms. It combines the energy boost of coffee with the health benefits of mushrooms. Popular mushrooms used include Lion’s Mane, Chaga, and Reishi.

Benefits

• Lower Caffeine: Mushroom coffee often has less caffeine than regular coffee. This can reduce jitters and crashes.
• Cognitive Support: Ingredients like Lion’s Mane may boost mental clarity and focus.
• Immune Boost: Mushrooms such as Chaga contain antioxidants that support the immune system.

How to Prepare

Many mushroom coffees come as instant powders. You simply mix them with hot water or milk. Some brands to consider:

• Ryze
• MUD\WTR
• Pella Organic Mushroom Coffee

Ingredients Example

For a basic mushroom coffee drink:

• 1 cup hot water or milk
• 1-2 teaspoons mushroom coffee powder (check packaging for exact amount)
• Optional sweeteners: honey, stevia, or your choice

Instructions

Step-by-step:

1. Heat your water or milk until steaming.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of mushroom coffee powder.
3. Stir well until the powder dissolves completely.
4. Sweeten to taste if desired.

Variations

Try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor. You can also blend with non-dairy milk for a creamy texture.

Dandelion Coffee

Dandelion coffee is made from roasted dandelion roots. It’s popular for its potential health benefits. This drink is naturally caffeine-free.

Benefits

• Digestive Aid: Improves digestion and acts as a natural diuretic.
• Liver Support: Supports liver functions by increasing bile and enzyme production.
• Detoxifying: Helps detoxify the body.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• Fresh dandelion roots (thoroughly rinsed)
• 1 teaspoon of chicory root (optional)
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
• 4 cups of water

Instructions:

1. Place the dandelion roots in a single layer on a roasting pan.
2. Roast them at 350°F for 45 minutes.
3. Transfer the roasted roots to a pot.
4. Add chicory and cinnamon to the pot.
5. Pour in 4 cups of water.
6. Bring to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes.
7. Strain and serve hot.

Taste Profile

Dandelion coffee has a slightly bitter taste. It often resembles the flavor of regular coffee. Some find it nutty, while others taste a hint of sweetness.

Uses

• Enjoy as a morning beverage.
• Substitute for regular coffee.
• Pair with milk or dairy alternatives.

Chicory Coffee

Chicory coffee is made from the root of the chicory plant. It offers a coffee-like taste but contains no caffeine. Many people use it as a caffeine-free alternative to coffee.

Benefits

• Caffeine-free: Helps reduce caffeine intake.
• Similar Flavor: Tastes like coffee.
• Health Benefits: May improve digestion and reduce inflammation.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons roasted, ground chicory root
• Boiling water
• Sweeteners (optional)

Instructions

1. Place 2 tablespoons of roasted, ground chicory root in a French press.
2. Pour boiling water over the chicory root.
3. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Press and pour into a cup.
5. Add sweeteners if desired. Enjoy!

Maca Coffee

Maca coffee is a caffeine-free alternative. It uses powdered maca root, known for its potential health benefits.

Benefits

Maca root might increase energy and stamina. It may also support hormonal health and improve mood.

Ingredients

You can make a simple version of maca coffee with the following ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of maca powder
• 1 cup of your choice of milk
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon of maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon of cacao powder (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the milk in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
2. Add the maca powder, cinnamon, vanilla extract, maple syrup, and cacao powder.
3. Whisk until the mixture is well combined and simmering.
4. Use an immersion blender to froth the mixture for about a minute.
5. Alternatively, blend the mixture in a blender on high for 30-45 seconds.

Carob Latte

A Carob Latte offers a delicious and caffeine-free alternative to your regular coffee. Carob, derived from the carob tree, boasts a naturally sweet and rich chocolate-like flavor.

To make a Carob Latte, you need:

• 1 tablespoon carob powder
• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 teaspoon honey or other sweeteners (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat the milk: Pour the milk into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat until warm, but not boiling.
2. Mix the carob: In a cup, add the carob powder.
3. Combine: Gradually pour the heated milk into the cup, stirring continuously to ensure the carob powder dissolves completely.
4. Sweeten: Add honey or your choice of sweetener. Stir to mix well.

For an enhanced experience, you could try frothing the milk before combining it with the carob powder. Use a milk frother or whisk.

Enjoy a Carob Latte as a comforting and warming drink at any time of the day.

Yerba Mate Latte

A Yerba Mate Latte is a great coffee alternative. It provides a similar caffeine boost without the jitters some coffee drinkers experience.

Ingredients

• 1 cup water
• 1 tablespoon yerba mate leaves (or one yerba mate tea bag)
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Sweetener to taste (honey, sugar, or stevia)

Instructions

Brew Yerba Mate:

• Boil 1 cup of water.
• Place yerba mate leaves in an infuser or use a tea bag.
• Pour hot water over the yerba mate.
• Steep for 4-6 minutes.

Prepare the Milk:

• Heat 1/2 cup of milk in a small pot.
• Froth the milk using a frother or whisk vigorously until it becomes foamy.

Combine and Sweeten:

• Remove the yerba mate leaves or tea bag.
• Pour the brewed yerba mate into a mug.
• Add the frothed milk on top.
• Sweeten to taste and stir well.

Tips

• Use whole milk or a rich plant-based milk for a creamier texture.
• Adjust the steeping time for stronger or milder flavor.
• Experiment with different sweeteners like agave or monk fruit.

Enjoy your energizing and flavorful Yerba Mate Latte!

Rooibos Latte

A Rooibos latte is a great alternative to traditional coffee drinks. It’s naturally caffeine-free and offers an earthy flavor with notes of vanilla.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons Rooibos tea leaves
• 1/2 cup boiling water
• 1/2 cup milk (or milk alternative)
• 1-2 teaspoons honey or coconut sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

• Pour 1/2 cup boiling water into a mug.
• Add Rooibos tea leaves using a tea infuser.
• Let steep for 3-5 minutes until it’s strong and dark.
• Heat 1/2 cup milk in a small saucepan on medium.
• Add honey and vanilla extract to the tea.
• Stir until the honey dissolves.
• Froth the milk if desired, then add it to the tea.

Tips

• Use a mason jar to shake and mix ingredients for a frothy texture.
• Adjust sweetness and milk type based on your preference.
• For a refreshing twist, try an iced Rooibos latte by adding ice before the milk.

Benefits

• Caffeine-free: Ideal for reducing caffeine intake.
• Low in tannins: Better for digestion compared to other teas.
• Rich in antioxidants: Offers health benefits similar to green tea.

Lavender Latte

A Lavender Latte is a unique blend of espresso, milk, and lavender syrup. This drink offers a delightful floral aroma and a calming taste.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup water
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 tablespoons dried lavender buds
• 1 shot of espresso
• 1 cup oat milk (or any milk of your choice)

Instructions:

Lavender Syrup Preparation:

1. Combine water, sugar, and lavender buds in a small pot.
2. Simmer on medium heat, stirring for about 10 minutes.
3. Use a fine mesh strainer to remove the buds from the syrup.

Latte Assembly:

1. Prepare a shot of espresso.
2. Steam and froth the oat milk.
3. Pour the espresso into a glass.
4. Add lavender syrup to taste (typically 1-2 tablespoons).
5. Pour the steamed milk over the espresso, allowing the froth to settle on top.
6. Garnish with dried lavender buds.

You can also make an iced version by pouring the espresso, lavender syrup, and milk over a glass filled with ice.

This drink not only tastes amazing but also adds a touch of elegance to your coffee routine. Enjoy the calming aroma and subtle sweetness of a Lavender Latte.

Spirulina Latte

A Spirulina Latte offers a nutritious alternative to traditional coffee. Spirulina, a blue-green algae, is packed with nutrients. This beverage is popular among those seeking a health boost.

Ingredients

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon blue spirulina powder
• 1 teaspoon agave syrup (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
• Ginger (optional)

Instructions

• Heat coconut milk in a saucepan.
• Do not boil.
• In a small bowl, mix the blue spirulina powder with a bit of warm milk.
• Whisk to remove clumps.
• Slowly add more milk while whisking.
• If desired, add agave syrup, lemon juice, or ginger.
• Blend until smooth and frothy.
• Pour into a cup and serve warm.

Enjoy the vibrant color and health benefits of a Spirulina Latte.

Ashwagandha Latte

An Ashwagandha Latte is a soothing and nutritious alternative to traditional coffee. This unique drink combines the benefits of ashwagandha, a powerful adaptogen, with the rich flavors of your favorite latte ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon ashwagandha powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon powder
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup or honey
• 1 cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond, oat, or soy)
• 1/2 cup brewed coffee or 1 shot of espresso

Instructions:

1. Warm the plant-based milk over medium heat in a saucepan.
2. Add the ashwagandha powder, cinnamon powder, and maple syrup or honey.
3. Whisk the mixture until well blended and frothy.
4. Pour the brewed coffee or espresso into a cup.
5. Add the warm milk and spice mixture to the coffee.
6. Stir gently and enjoy your nutritious, warm Ashwagandha Latte.

Lemon Coffee

Lemon coffee is an invigorating drink. It combines the boldness of coffee with the zesty brightness of lemon. This unique beverage offers a refreshing twist on your morning routine.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of brewed coffee
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
• Ice cubes (optional for iced version)

Instructions:

1. Brew a cup of your favorite coffee.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice.
3. Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey for sweetness, if desired.
4. For an iced version, add ice cubes after mixing.

This drink can be enjoyed hot or cold. The combination of coffee and lemon may enhance alertness and provide a good dose of Vitamin C.

You may find the bitterness of the coffee balanced by the acidity of the lemon. Honey adds a touch of sweetness. Adjust as per your taste preferences.

Potential Benefits:

• Increased alertness
• Antioxidant boost
• Potential digestive aid

This drink may especially appeal to those looking for a unique flavor profile and an energy boost.