I get it.
The world seems to run on coffee, but what if every sip feels like a bitter reminder that you’re not part of the caffeine club?
You’ve tried to join in, but each time, that strong, robust flavor just doesn’t sit right.
Not all coffee drinks are created equal. And I’m here to reveal the 12 best coffee drinks for non-coffee drinkers to enjoy.
In this article, you’ll discover a variety of coffee beverages that are mild, inviting, and might win you over.
What are the Best Coffee Drinks for Non-Coffee Drinkers
1. Caffe Latte
A caffe latte is an excellent starting point for non-coffee drinkers. It’s a simple blend, usually made with one part espresso to three parts steamed milk.
This high milk-to-coffee ratio means that the espresso provides a hint of coffee flavour without dominating the drink.
The milk softens the espresso’s strength, resulting in a mild and smooth beverage.
It’s the kind of drink that lets you gradually appreciate the taste of coffee without the bitterness that can sometimes be off-putting.
2. Cappuccino
A cappuccino is another friendly option for those who aren’t quite coffee enthusiasts yet. It’s typically made with equal parts of espresso, steamed milk, and milk foam.
This trio works together to create a drink that’s rich yet not too heavy on the coffee flavor.
The layer of foam on top adds a light, airy texture that contrasts nicely with the depth of the espresso.
Because the coffee is balanced with plenty of milk, the overall taste is creamy and not too sharp.
It’s a classic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a coffee drink that’s not too strong but still offers that authentic coffee experience.
3. Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is a go-to for those who might be put off by the hot, strong taste of traditional coffee.
It’s simply coffee served over ice, and often it’s made with a bit more water or milk, which dilutes the coffee’s intensity.
The coolness of the drink, combined with the dilution, makes for a refreshing and less concentrated coffee flavor.
You can adjust the strength to your liking by adding more milk or a flavored syrup. This customization makes iced coffee a versatile choice for easing into the coffee world at your own pace.
Plus, on a hot day, it’s the perfect pick-me-up that won’t overwhelm your taste buds.
4. Mocha
A mocha is the perfect middle ground for anyone who’s not quite ready to dive into straight coffee. Imagine your favorite hot chocolate with a splash of coffee.
That’s essentially what a mocha is.
You’ve got the rich, creamy chocolate that you know and love, mixed with just enough espresso to introduce a coffee flavor without making it too intense.
The typical ratio is one part espresso to two parts chocolate and two parts steamed milk, which means the coffee takes a backseat to the chocolatey goodness.
It’s a cozy, comforting drink that’s easy to enjoy, especially if you’re still getting used to the taste of coffee.
5. Vanilla Latte
A vanilla latte is a simple concoction: usually one shot of espresso mixed with three parts steamed milk, all flavored with a splash of vanilla syrup.
The vanilla adds a familiar, comforting sweetness that softens the espresso’s punch.
Because the coffee is blended with a generous amount of milk and the soothing taste of vanilla, the overall flavor is creamy and smooth, not too strong or bitter.
It’s a welcoming drink for anyone who wants just a hint of coffee wrapped in the warmth of vanilla.
6. Caramel Macchiato
The caramel macchiato is a mix of one shot of espresso and about two to three shots of steamed milk, topped off with a good swirl of caramel.
The milk cuts through the strong coffee taste, making it milder, while the caramel adds a sweet touch that takes the edge off even more.
It’s not just a lighter coffee; it’s a whole new flavor experience.
The caramel gives it a dessert-like feel, which makes it a great pick for anyone who wants to enjoy a coffee drink that doesn’t taste too much like, well, coffee.
7. Cold Brew
Cold brew is for you if you find regular coffee too bitter.
Unlike regular coffee, cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for hours. This slow process doesn’t just make it cold; it also makes the coffee less acidic and bitter.
There’s no fixed ratio like in other coffee drinks because cold brew is all about that long steeping time. You end up with a coffee that’s naturally sweeter and milder.
It’s a refreshing way to enjoy coffee’s flavor without the harshness, and you can still add milk or sweeteners if you like.
8. Matcha Espresso Fusion
The Matcha Espresso Fusion is a trendy drink from Starbucks that’s perfect for when you can’t decide between coffee and tea. It has three simple ingredients: matcha green tea, milk, and espresso.
The key to making this drink just right is all about the ratio. You start with matcha mixed with water, which makes up the first layer.
Then, you add cold milk, and finally, a shot of hot espresso is poured on top. The usual mix is one part matcha to one part espresso, with about two parts milk in the middle. This balance makes sure the drink isn’t too strong.
The matcha and milk tone down the boldness of the espresso, so you get a nice, smooth taste that’s not as intense as a straight shot of coffee.
It’s a great choice for those who want a caffeine kick without the jitters. Plus, it looks really cool in the cup with all those layers!
9. Oreo Cookie Latte
An Oreo cookie latte is a trendy choice for anyone who loves a sweet treat with their coffee. It’s a simple yet indulgent drink, starting with one shot of espresso.
Then, you add in a generous amount of steamed milk that’s been whipped up with crushed Oreo cookies.
The cookies bring their iconic chocolate flavor and a sugary kick, which makes the coffee taste milder.
It’s not just about the flavors mixing; the cookies actually soften the coffee’s boldness, giving you a creamy, dreamy drink.
This viral sensation from TikTok is like a dessert in a cup, with just enough coffee to remind you it’s still a latte.
It’s a perfect pick for those who want to enjoy coffee without the strong coffee punch.
10. Chicory Coffee
Chicory Coffee is a unique beverage with a history as rich as its flavor. It’s made from the roots of the chicory plant, which are roasted, ground, and then brewed just like coffee beans.
The beauty of this drink lies in its milder taste and lower caffeine content compared to regular coffee.
Typically, you’d use a one-to-one ratio of chicory to coffee when you’re mixing it, but you can adjust this to suit your taste.
Some people go for a full switch to chicory, especially if they’re cutting down on caffeine.
The result is a less intense cup with a woody, nutty flavor that’s easy on the stomach and gentle on the nerves. It’s a great alternative for those who love the ritual of a morning brew but want to keep things calm and cozy.
Chicory Coffee is a smooth, comforting choice that won’t leave you buzzing but will still satisfy those coffee cravings.
11. Decaf Coffee
Decaf Coffee is the go-to choice for coffee lovers who want to dial back on caffeine without giving up their beloved brew.
The process of making decaf coffee starts with regular coffee beans, which go through a special treatment to remove most of the caffeine.
What’s great about decaf is that you can use the same amount of coffee grounds as you would for regular coffee, so the ratio is 1:1.
This means you can brew it just like your usual cup. The main difference is that decaf is way less intense when it comes to the caffeine kick.
You still get all the rich flavor and aroma of coffee, but without the buzz that can sometimes make you feel jittery.
Decaf lets you enjoy a warm, satisfying mug any time of day, even right before bed, making it a perfect choice for those who are sensitive to caffeine or looking to relax with a cup of joe.
12. Mushroom Coffee
Mushroom coffee is a new trend that’s catching on for its possible health benefits and unique taste. It’s a blend of ground coffee and mushroom extracts, which might sound a bit odd at first, but it’s actually quite tasty.
The mushrooms used aren’t your typical kitchen varieties; they’re often medicinal mushrooms like chaga, lion’s mane, or reishi.
These are known for their wellness properties and don’t add a mushroomy flavor to your cup.
When making mushroom coffee, the ratio usually involves mixing one part mushroom extract with two parts coffee.
This means that for every cup of coffee, you’re only getting a third of the mushroom blend.
Because of this, the coffee flavour is still front and center, but with an added earthy note.
The reason mushroom coffee is less intense is that the mushrooms naturally tone down the caffeine impact.
So, you get a gentler energy boost without the highs and lows that regular coffee might give you.
It’s a smooth ride and a great option for those looking to add a healthful twist to their coffee routine.
