Top Picks: The Best Coffee for Non-Coffee Drinkers Who Still Crave a Cup

The best coffee for non-coffee drinkers are typically the following: 

• Flavored Latte
• Cafe Mocha (or white mocha) 
• Cappuccino or Frappuccino 
• Naturally Processed Coffee
• Dirty Chai

We explore a list of 10 different options here, both coffee and honorable non-coffee mentions, pulled together by recommendations from several online coffee communities. You should leave this article knowing where to start if you are looking to begin your coffee journey, or aid a friend in developing their taste for this world wide beloved drink. 

Key Takeaways

• The most common recommendations across different communities were flavored lattes, cafe mochas, and cappuccinos. We strongly feel that these coffee-based drinks will be a great introduction for your typical non coffee drinker and can be found at most coffee shops.
• Lighter coffee options like blonde roasts, cold brews, and flavored coffees offer a milder taste, which can be preferable for non-coffee drinkers or those looking for a less bold flavor. Natural processed coffee is a great alternative that offers a drinking experience with less of the intense coffee taste.
• Non-dairy milk alternatives such as almond, soy, and oat milks not only cater to dietary restrictions but can also add unique flavors and textures to coffee, making each cup a personalized taste experience.

Why You Should Trust Us

• We scoured several social sources, including a poll directly with one of the more popular coffee groups on Facebook, to find the best answer possible.
• We reviewed several reputable sources across the internet to get a collection of opinions and bring you the best recommendations. 
• Finally, we tested several of these drinks with non-coffee-drinking friends. While anecdotal, there were some very clear winners.

Decoding the Coffee Menu: A Beginner’s Guide

If your eyes glaze over at the sight of coffee shop menus, fear not. We’re here to help you decode the jargon and find your perfect cup. Coffee can be as simple or as complex as you make it. From the dark intensity of an espresso to the creamy comfort of a latte, there’s something for everyone.

Best Coffee Drinks For Non-Coffee Drinkers

Let’s face it, not everyone loves coffee from the get-go. Whether you are someone who wants to start enjoying coffee drinks or you have someone who you want to introduce to the world of coffee who can’t stand the coffee taste, the list below will cover the most common recommendations.

Flavored Latte 

• A flavored latte is a sumptuous twist on the classic latte, where espresso meets steamed milk and is elevated with a dash of your favorite flavor, be it vanilla, caramel, or hazelnut. To craft this, simply blend a shot of espresso with steamed milk, and finish it off with a few drops of your chosen flavor syrup.

Cappuccino (French Vanilla variant) 

• This drink is a delightful blend of strong espresso, steamed milk, and a thick layer of frothy milk foam, with the enchanting addition of French vanilla. For a French Vanilla Cappuccino, infuse the milk with French vanilla syrup before combining it with the espresso, and top with a sprinkle of cocoa or cinnamon for an extra touch of elegance.

Cafe Mochas 

• A Cafe Mocha is a luxurious mix of espresso, chocolate, and steamed milk, often crowned with whipped cream. To make this, mix a shot of espresso with steamed milk and chocolate syrup or cocoa powder, and top with whipped cream for a decadent treat.

White Mocha 

• White Mocha is a creamy, dreamy concoction where espresso is blended with white chocolate sauce and steamed milk, often adorned with a swirl of whipped cream. Simply blend espresso with steamed milk and white chocolate sauce, and top with whipped cream for a heavenly sip.

Frappuccino 

• This is a cold, blended beverage that’s a delightful mix of coffee, milk, ice, and flavored syrup, often topped with whipped cream. Blend together ice, coffee, milk, and your choice of flavored syrup until smooth, and finish with a dollop of whipped cream for a refreshing indulgence.

Natural Processed Coffee 

• This is a type of coffee where the beans are dried with the fruit still on them, resulting in a sweeter, fruitier cup of coffee. To enjoy, simply brew these specially processed beans as you would any other coffee, and savor the unique, fruity undertones.

Dirty Chai 

• A Dirty Chai is a tantalizing fusion of a traditional chai tea latte with a bold espresso shot. Prepare a chai tea latte, then add a shot of espresso to it, combining the spiced warmth of chai with the robust depth of coffee.

Honorable Mentions (Coffee Alternatives)  

Matcha Latte 

• A Matcha Latte is a creamy and slightly sweet drink made with matcha, which is a special kind of green tea powder. It’s mixed with hot milk, making it smooth and delicious. It’s a great choice if you like tea and want something warm and cozy.

Chai 

• Chai is a warm and spicy tea that comes from India. It’s made by boiling black tea with milk, sugar, and a mix of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and ginger. It’s perfect for when you want something sweet and a little spicy.

Tea 

• Tea is a popular drink made by steeping dried leaves in hot water. There are many kinds, like black, green, or herbal tea. Each type has its own flavor, and you can drink it plain or add things like lemon, honey, or milk.

Espresso Drinks to Caramel Macchiatos – What the Community Says

You are likely not surprised that communities all around the internet are drinking coffee. We collected the list above after visiting several of these communities and polling their opinion. The two that stood out with a significant amount of votes were Reddit & a popular Facebook Coffee group.

Mocha Lattes and Natural processed coffees were among the most popular on the Reddit side of the internet

While the popular Facebook group clearly had a different opinion (some stressing that black coffee was really the only good coffee).

The Art of Milk and Coffee

Milk plays a key role in many coffee drinks. It can change the coffee’s flavor, making it less bitter and more sweet, while adding some protein, calcium, and vitamin B. The type and temperature of the milk can totally change the bitter coffee taste.

Full-fat milk gives a creamy and sweet texture, while steamed milk can make your coffee tastes sweeter and creamier. The temperature of the milk also plays an important role in the taste of your coffee. Consider adding some milk to your coffee drinks to make them more approachable to newcomers.

Alternative Milks and How They Change the Game

We should discuss alternatives to cow’s milk. Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or just looking for a different flavor, there are plenty of options out there. Some alternatives to cow’s milk include:

• Almond milk
• Hazelnut milk
• Soy milk
• Oat milk
• Lactose-free milk
• Coconut milk

These options can all change the game when it comes to your coffee.

Nutty Notes: Almond and Hazelnut Milks

Almond and hazelnut milks can introduce a delightful nutty flavor to your coffee. They’re a great way to switch it up and try something new.

Almond milk can add a bit of bitterness, while hazelnut milk brings out a rich nutty flavor that some people prefer.

Creamy without the Cow: Soy and Oat Milks

If a creamy texture is what you seek, soy and oat milks are excellent choices. Soy milk gives a texture in coffee that’s close to dairy milk, while oat milk gives a creamy texture that can range from thin to really rich and thick, making the coffee richer without the risk of curdling.

Lactose-Free Lusciousness: Lactose-Free and Coconut Milks

For those who are lactose intolerant, lactose-free and coconut milks present a viable option. Lactose-free milk has all the benefits of regular milk, plus it’s easier on the stomach. And coconut milk? It gives your coffee a refreshing and slightly sweet flavor, making it a nice change from the usual.

Sweet Sips: Syrups and Toppings

If you’re someone with a sweet tooth, personalizing your coffee with syrups and toppings is an option. Popular syrup flavors include vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut, and they can be found in many coffee shops. Toppings like cinnamon, brown sugar, and chocolate chips can add an extra hint of sweetness and texture to your coffee drink. These flavorings let you play around and create your own signature drink.

Light and Lovely: Finding Your Perfect Match in Milder Coffees

Seeking a less intense, milder coffee experience? Rest assured, there are numerous options available. Lighter roasts, cold brews, and flavored coffees can offer a gentler flavor profile that might just hit the spot.

The Allure of Blonde Roasts

Blonde roasts are lighter in color and have a more subtle flavor compared to darker roasts. These beans are roasted for a shorter time, resulting in a more acidic and mellow flavor.

If you’re looking for a mild yet interesting coffee flavor, this might be your perfect match.

Cold Brew Coffee: Smoothness Over Strength

If you’re a fan of iced coffee, you might want to try cold brew. Cold brew coffee is known for being smooth, less acidic, and less bitter, so it has a milder flavor compared to the often sharper taste of hot coffee. It’s a good choice for hot summer days or anytime you want a cooling, refreshing drink.

The Delicate Dance of Flavored Coffees

Flavored coffees are another way to enjoy a lighter, more delicate flavor. Whether it’s French Vanilla, Hazelnut, or mocha coffee, flavored coffees give you a nice taste without being too strong. They’re like dessert in a cup, perfect for a treat or when you want something a little different.

Beyond Caffeine: Decaf Options That Deliver Flavor

If you’re a non coffee drinker who is sensitive to caffeine or just prefers to avoid it, don’t worry – you can still drink coffee and enjoy a great cup without the effects of caffeine.

Decaf coffee delivers the full flavor experience without the side effect of caffeine.

The Decaf Debate: Maintaining Taste without the Buzz

While decaf might not have the same kick as regular coffee, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice flavor. Decaf coffee can still deliver a rich, full-bodied taste, especially when you choose high-quality beans.

Nighttime Indulgence: Savoring Coffee after Dark

Decaf coffee is a perfect choice for a nighttime indulgence. You can savor the flavor of coffee without worrying about it keeping you up all night.

Mixing It Up: Decaf Alternatives to Regular Coffee

If you’re uncertain about decaf coffee, numerous other caffeine-free substitutes are available for you to try. From herbal teas to chicory coffee, these drinks can offer a satisfying alternative to your regular cup of joe.

Crafting the Perfect Cup: Tips for Making Coffee at Home

Having learned about the various types of coffee, roasts, and flavors, it’s time to utilize this knowledge and craft your perfect cup at home.

The Right Roast: Selecting Beans for a Gentler Brew

Choosing the right roast is a critical step in brewing your perfect cup. Lighter roasts tend to have a more subtle flavor, while darker roasts can offer a more robust taste.

Mastering the Method: Brewing Techniques for Softer Coffee

The brewing method you choose can greatly impact the flavor of your coffee. Whether you prefer the slow drip method for a softer coffee or the robust flavor of a French press, mastering the method is key to making a great cup of coffee.

Personalize Your Potion: Customizing Your Coffee

Brewing coffee at home allows you to tailor your cup to your preferences. Add spices, flavorings, or different milks to create your perfect coffee potion.

Summary

We’ve covered a lot of ground, from understanding the coffee menu to exploring lighter coffee options, alternative milks,, decaf options, and tips for making the perfect cup at home. Whether you’re a coffee beginner or a non-coffee drinker, there’s a world of flavors to explore and enjoy. So go ahead, experiment and find your perfect cup. Coffee is a journey, not a destination. 

Frequently Asked Questions