How to Make Mushroom Coffee Taste Great!
If you started with a high-quality mixed coffee likes Swell’s Mental Boost you don’t have to. It tastes like the rich dark roast coffee you love with no extra mushroom flavor.
We know what you mean though! If you are using a blend like Daily Zen or adding individual powder to your coffee there a couple simple hacks that go a long way. Don't give up on mushrooms, they have to many benefits for you to miss. There is no reason you can't make your mushroom coffee taste good. We will show you how to make it tasty below.
Mushroom coffee, a trend that has been growing steadily in popularity, combines the rich, bold taste of coffee with the health benefits of medicinal mushrooms. However, many people struggle with enhancing the taste of mushroom coffee to suit their palate. We will show you how to make mushroom coffee taste better, ensuring each cup is both nutritious and delicious.
What does mushroom coffee taste like?
Wondering what mushroom coffee tastes like? You are not alone! You would think it tastes like mushroom but mushroom coffee shouldn't have any mushroom taste at all. If you have chosen a quality mushroom coffee blend it should taste like your favorite delicious local coffee with a hint of earthiness. If your mushroom coffee does not have a taste that you like switch it up! Every blend and brand is different and just like normal coffee.
How to make mushroom coffee taste better?
Long story short, it totally depends. But before diving into the taste enhancement methods, it's crucial to understand what mushroom coffee is. Mushroom coffee is a blend of ground coffee and mushroom extracts. The most common mushrooms used are Reishi, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Shiitake, Maitake, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane, each offering unique health benefits, from boosting the immune system to enhancing cognitive function and reducing stress. Every mushroom coffee blend can taste different depending on the mixture.
Choosing the Right Coffee Base
The foundation of great-tasting mushroom coffee begins with the right coffee base. Opt for high-quality, organic coffee beans that have a smooth, robust flavor. Arabica beans are a popular choice for their less bitter and more flavorful profile. The roast level of the coffee also plays a significant role; a dark roast tends to provide a stronger balanced flavor that complements the earthiness of the mushrooms. If you have a more roasted taste to your coffee, you can add all sorts of stuff and it will still be good. The taste of your mushroom coffee can depend on everything from the type of coffee and the concentration of the mushrooms to the hardness or softness of the water.
Balancing Mushroom Flavors
The key to making mushroom coffee taste better lies in balancing the flavors of the mushrooms and coffee. Each type of mushroom has a distinct taste profile. For instance, Lion's Mane has a slightly sweet and savory flavor, while Chaga is more earthy. Experiment with different mushroom blends to find a combination that aligns with your taste preferences. In general fruitier tasting mushrooms will go better with lighter roasts.
The order that you make your coffee matters. I know its weird, but it makes a big difference. In the video below I show you how I make my mushroom coffee with an added mushroom powder so there is no mushroom taste.
Start with your coffee in cup, add your mushroom powder, cocoa powder, sweeteners. If you want to make it bulletproof mushroom coffee add your MCT oil, coconut, or butter now. Froth it up with a hand frother or mix well by hand. Add your creamer or frothed milk last and finish with cinnamon, pumpkin spice, chocolate, sprinkles, whipped cream or whatever you like!
Long story short.
Add other flavours! I find adding frothed milk with a dash of cinnamon goes a long way. Most of the taste people don’t like from mushroom powders is actually the smell. A dash of cinnamon completely overpowers the mushroom and makes for a delicious cup. Making your mushroom coffee as a mocha is also amazing. Adding some cocoa powder at the beginning can help you make a coffee shop level drink at home. If you don’t like cinnamon, chocolate, nutmeg, or caramel works as well.
Enhancing Sweetness Naturally
To counteract any bitterness, consider adding natural sweeteners. Honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar are excellent choices as they provide sweetness without overpowering the coffee's natural flavors. Stevia, a natural, calorie-free sweetener, is another great option for those watching their sugar intake. I am a big fan of a little bit of honey.
Using Creamers
The addition of creamers can greatly enhance the taste of mushroom coffee. For a creamy texture and added flavor, use milk or plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk. These creamers can soften the intensity of the coffee and mushroom blend, resulting in a smoother, more palatable drink.
Use Collagen
Adding a flavored or pure unflavored collagen is a great way to change the taste of mushroom coffee. If you can get your hands on a really high quality collagen like Swell's hydrolyzed collagen peptides, you can add a delicious creamy taste and texture to the coffee without adding dairy. If you are dairy sensitive this is a great option to get that dairy like creaminess without the lactose. I really love using a hand a frother to mix the collagen in and get that whip cream like texture. There are a ton of reasons to add collagen to your daily routine! read more about the science behind why its good for you here.
Incorporating Spices and Flavors
Spices are a fantastic way to add complexity and depth to mushroom coffee. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and cardamom are popular choices that complement the natural flavors of both coffee and mushrooms. Vanilla extract can also be used to add a subtle sweetness and aroma. A couple drops of fresh vanilla extract and your coffee smells just like the your favorite shop down the street.
Perfecting the Brewing Technique
The brewing technique can significantly impact the taste of mushroom coffee. Use filtered water for a cleaner taste and experiment with different brewing methods such as French press, pour-over, or an espresso machine. The extraction time and temperature can also be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. If your coffee is tasting very bitter your water might be too hot. You don’t really want boiling water. Let your kettle cool down for a second before you brew for a smoother taste with less tannins.
Adjusting the Mushroom-to-Coffee Ratio
If you are using a made for you blend, it should taste good right out of the package. If it doesn’t try some of the other options. If you are doing it yourself at home the ratio of mushroom extract to coffee is crucial. Start with a lower amount of mushroom extract and gradually increase it until you find the right balance between health benefits and flavor.
Make it bulletproof
If you haven't tried bulletproof coffee before there is not much the flavors of coconut and butter cant hide. It is also crazy good for you and a must drink beverage for those who skip breakfast or are into the keto diet. How to make your mushroom coffee bulletproof style here. Also no one ever said you can't add a little cocoa and make that bulletproof coffee a mocha!
Savoring Each Cup
By following these tips, you can significantly improve the taste of your mushroom coffee, making it a delightful and healthful experience. Remember, the key to great-tasting mushroom coffee is experimentation and personalization. Adjust the ingredients and brewing methods until you find your perfect cup. There is no reason to miss out on the crazy list of benefits mushroom coffee can give you! Experiment and you will find the perfect flavor combo for you.