Instant coffee has come a long way. Good freeze-dried coffee keeps much of the aroma and flavor of freshly brewed beans, and it's ready in seconds. Still, a few small changes can turn an ordinary cup into one you really look forward to. If you've ever wondered how to make instant coffee taste better, these ten easy tips will help, whether you're at home, at the office or on the road.
Start With Good Instant Coffee
The biggest difference comes from the coffee itself. Look for instant coffee that lists 100% Arabica as the ingredient and tells you where the beans come from. Freeze-dried coffee is made by brewing coffee, freezing it and removing the water, which helps preserve its flavor and aroma.
Our Sweet Brew Instant Coffee (Dark Roast) is a single-origin, freeze-dried coffee made from Typica and Bourbon beans from Papua New Guinea, with notes of toasted almond and a sweet toffee finish. If you like something a little different, Mushroom Fuse Instant Coffee blends medium roast coffee with organic Lion's Mane and Chaga mushroom powders for an earthy, smooth cup.
How to Make Instant Coffee Taste Better: 10 Tips
1. Use water that's hot, not boiling
Boiling water can make instant coffee taste harsh. Aim for about 160–175°F (70–80°C). If you only have a kettle, let the water rest for a minute or two after it boils.
2. Measure your coffee
Eyeballing it often leads to a cup that's too weak or too strong. Start with 1 scoop (about 1 teaspoon) in 8–10 oz (236–295 ml) of water, then adjust. For a richer taste, try 2 scoops.
3. Make a paste first
Stir your coffee granules with a splash of hot water to form a smooth paste before adding the rest. This helps the coffee dissolve evenly and gives a rounder flavor.
4. Use filtered water
Coffee is mostly water, so water that tastes good on its own makes better coffee. If your tap water has a strong taste, try filtered water.
5. Froth your milk
A handheld frother turns warm milk into a creamy foam in seconds. Pour it over your coffee for a latte-style drink. Dairy, oat and almond milk all work.
6. Try a whipped coffee
Whisk instant coffee with equal parts sugar and hot water until thick and fluffy, then spoon it over cold or warm milk. It's a fun weekend treat.
7. Add a pinch of flavor
A dash of cinnamon, a drop of vanilla extract or a little cocoa powder can add warmth and depth without much effort.
8. Sweeten thoughtfully
If you like your coffee sweet, try honey, maple syrup or brown sugar. Add a little at a time and taste as you go.
9. Make it iced
Dissolve your coffee in a small amount of hot water first, then pour it over ice and top up with cold water or milk. Instant coffee is perfect for quick iced drinks.
10. Store it properly
Moisture and air are the enemies of instant coffee. Close the lid tightly and keep it in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. Once opened, it's best used within about 3 months for the freshest flavor.
Quick Recipes to Try
Simple café latte
- Dissolve 1–2 scoops of instant coffee in 2 oz of hot water.
- Froth 6 oz of warm milk.
- Pour the milk over the coffee and enjoy.
Iced vanilla coffee
- Dissolve 2 scoops of instant coffee in a splash of hot water.
- Add a drop of vanilla extract and your sweetener of choice.
- Pour over ice and top up with cold milk or water.
Mocha in a minute
- Stir 1 scoop of instant coffee and 1 teaspoon of cocoa powder into a paste with hot water.
- Top with warm milk and stir well.
When Instant Coffee Makes the Most Sense
Instant coffee is ideal for busy mornings, travel, camping, the office or any time you want a good cup without cleaning a coffee maker. A tube keeps well in a desk drawer or travel bag, so a decent cup is never far away. It also pairs well with a quick morning routine. For ideas, see our guide to building a simple daily wellness routine. And if you're weighing up your morning drink options, read our comparison of matcha vs coffee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my instant coffee taste bitter?
Boiling water and using too much coffee are the most common causes. Try slightly cooler water and measure your scoop.
How much instant coffee should I use?
A good starting point is 1 scoop (about 1 teaspoon) per 8–10 oz of water, or 2 scoops for a richer cup. Always check the directions on your product.
Can I use instant coffee for iced coffee?
Yes. Dissolve it in a little hot water first, then pour it over ice and add cold water or milk.
Does instant coffee contain caffeine?
Yes. Coffee naturally contains caffeine, though the amount per cup depends on how much you use. For more product questions, visit our FAQ page.
Brew a Better Cup Today
With the right coffee and a few small tweaks, instant coffee can be every bit as enjoyable as a café cup. Explore our instant, whole bean and pod options in the coffee and tea collection and find your new everyday favorite.
This content is for general information and isn't medical advice. Talk to your doctor or healthcare professional if you have questions about your health.
