Coffee can help you reduce your sugar intake. It boosts your energy, lowers cravings, and improves your mood. However, adding sugar to your morning brew will lessen the health benefits of coffee, especially if you're trying to reduce sugar cravings. Thankfully, there are healthy options to sweeten your coffee. Here are our tips for adding sweetness without using sugar.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an excellent alternative to sugar for those looking to enhance the flavor of their coffee without adding unnecessary calories or contributing to their daily sugar intake. While a teaspoon of sugar can mitigate coffee's natural bitterness, it also introduces four grams of added sugar, which can be counterproductive for health-conscious individuals. In contrast, cinnamon provides a delightful warmth and depth of flavor and boasts impressive health benefits. This humble spice has been shown to affect metabolic markers significantly. For instance, a study published in Diabetes Care highlighted that consuming just half a teaspoon of cinnamon daily can reduce blood sugar, triglyceride levels, and total cholesterol among people with type 2 diabetes.
Incorporating cinnamon into your coffee routine is easy and versatile. For optimal results, we recommend using pure powdered cinnamon rather than pre-mixed cinnamon sugar, which often contains additional sugars and preservatives. You can add a dash directly into each cup for an instant flavor boost or stir a teaspoon of cinnamon into your coffee grounds before brewing to infuse the entire pot with its rich aroma and taste. Combine a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy seasonal cup of joe.
Cocoa Powder
Chocolate syrup contains a lot of sugar, while cocoa powder does not. If you want to enhance the flavor and add a chocolate taste to your drink without adding sugar, consider mixing in a spoonful of cocoa powder. Adding a bit of milk can also help the cocoa powder dissolve better and add a nice creamy texture.
Mint
Mint can enhance the sweetness of coffee. Add a few mint leaves and stir gently. The compounds in mint can also help reduce bitterness. A small amount of mint improves bitter coffee and adds a refreshing taste. Fresh mint is ideal, but peppermint extract will also work. Combine cocoa and mint for a particularly delightful option!
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract is a good option for sweetening coffee. Adding a few drops can enhance the sweetness and flavor of your morning coffee, providing an alternative to using sugar. However, it is important to use it sparingly, as many store-bought vanilla extracts can have an artificial aftertaste if overused. Pair this option with unsweetened vanilla almond milk to further mellow your morning brew.
Almond Extract
We love Taste of Home's recommendation to add vanilla and almond extract to coffee grounds. This unique combination is delicious with a splash of milk. The vanilla actually helps enhance the flavor of the almond extract.
Maple Extract
It turns out this delicious syrup isn't just for pancakes. You can add it to your coffee, too! The maple flavor is a great addition, especially for the cooler seasons. However, pure maple syrup is a natural sugar, and other varieties are diluted with high fructose corn syrup, so you may offset the health benefits with these options. Rather, try a bit of maple extract for the flavor without the sugar.
Coconut
Hang on to summer vibes with the tropical flavor of unsweetened coconut flakes in your coffee. This option adds the lowest amount of saturated fats to your coffee. Coconut cream is a creamy and dairy-free alternative that adds a hint of natural sweetness to your coffee and provides a velvety smoothness without additional creamer or sweeteners.
Coconut oil contains healthy fats that can help you feel full and give you lasting energy. To add a creamy taste to your coffee, simply mix a teaspoon or tablespoon of melted coconut oil. However, since coconut oil is high in calories, it's best to use it in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Coconut milk, oil, cream, and ground coconut flakes are all delightful options for a sugar-free brew with a hint of tropical flavor.
At Apocalypse Coffee, we believe the quality of your coffee matters. That's why we source organic beans. Options like mint leaves, cocoa powder, or extracts can enhance the flavor of your coffee. Additionally, this approach may help reduce sugar consumption and lower calorie intake. And you know what that means? More coffee!
