Hey coffee lovers! Let’s talk about the magical bean juice that fuels our mornings, powers through our workdays, and keeps our social lives buzzing. We all have our favorite go-to orders—classic lattes, americanos, cappuccinos—but did you know there’s a whole world of unusual coffee drinks out there just waiting to blow your mind? If you’re ready to take your coffee obsession to the next level, here are some creative, unique, and downright wild coffee concoctions you might not have heard of.
1. Egg Coffee (Vietnam)
Eggs and coffee? Yep, you read that right. Egg coffee, or "cà phê trứng," is a Vietnamese delight that turns your morning brew into a rich, dessert-like treat. It’s made by whisking egg yolks with sugar and sweetened condensed milk until they become frothy and creamy. This luscious mixture is poured over a robust shot of Vietnamese coffee, resulting in a velvety, custard-like coffee experience.
It’s like having your coffee and dessert all in one cup. If you’re a fan of tiramisu or creamy lattes, you’ll fall in love with this unique drink. Bonus: it’s surprisingly easy to make at home!
2. Butter Coffee (Worldwide)
Butter coffee, also known as “Bulletproof Coffee,” has become a trendy favorite among keto dieters and wellness enthusiasts. But what is it? Essentially, it’s coffee blended with unsalted butter and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil (or coconut oil).
The result is a frothy, latte-like drink that’s rich, creamy, and packed with energy. Butter coffee is said to provide sustained focus and keep you full for hours. It might sound strange, but trust me—one sip, and you’ll understand why it’s a cult favorite.
3. Mazagran (Portugal/Algeria)
Imagine iced coffee and lemonade had a love child—welcome to Mazagran. Originating from Algeria and popularized in Portugal, this refreshing drink combines espresso with lemon juice, sugar, and sometimes sparkling water.
It’s the perfect pick-me-up for hot summer days, offering a tangy twist to your usual iced coffee routine. If you’re skeptical, don’t be! The bright citrusy notes of lemon surprisingly complement the bold bitterness of coffee.
4. Coffee Lemonade (Sweden)
Speaking of coffee and citrus, Swedish coffee lemonade takes things up a notch. This zesty drink pairs brewed coffee with fresh lemonade, a touch of honey, and sometimes even a splash of tonic water for extra sparkle.
It’s invigorating, unexpected, and perfect for anyone who loves experimenting with flavor combinations. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up at home when you want something different.
5. Kopi Joss (Indonesia)
Looking for a coffee drink with flair? Try Kopi Joss from Indonesia. What makes it stand out? It’s served with a burning hot lump of charcoal dropped straight into your cup!
This might sound wild, but the hot charcoal caramelizes the coffee, reducing acidity and giving it a slightly smoky, earthy flavor. It’s a must-try for adventurous coffee enthusiasts who want to experience something truly one-of-a-kind.
6. Affogato (Italy)
Okay, this one might not be entirely “unheard of,” but it’s too good to leave out. An affogato is an Italian dessert that combines the best of both worlds: coffee and ice cream. Simply pour a hot shot of espresso over a scoop of vanilla gelato, and voilà—pure bliss.
It’s simple, indulgent, and perfect for impressing guests after dinner. Try experimenting with different ice cream flavors for fun variations!
7. Qishr (Yemen)
Step aside, pumpkin spice—meet Qishr, a traditional Yemeni coffee drink made with coffee husks, ginger, and cardamom. This spiced beverage is both aromatic and invigorating, offering a cozy, warming experience perfect for chilly days.
It’s a beautiful reminder that coffee isn’t just a drink—it’s a cultural ritual. If you love chai or spiced lattes, you’ll adore Qishr.
8. Espresso Tonic (Scandinavia)
Think of this as coffee’s answer to a fancy cocktail. The espresso tonic combines a shot of espresso with tonic water and ice. The bitterness of the coffee balances beautifully with the crisp, bubbly sweetness of the tonic, creating a refreshing, sophisticated drink.
It’s light, invigorating, and a great option for those afternoons when you want something a little extra.
9. Irish Coffee (Ireland)
Let’s spice things up with a boozy classic! Irish coffee combines hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and a generous layer of whipped cream. It’s warm, rich, and perfect for cozy nights by the fire (or impressing your friends at brunch).
While it’s more common in pubs than cafes, it’s easy to recreate at home. Just don’t forget the secret ingredient: a smile!
10. Cheese Coffee (Finland)
Brace yourself for this one! In Finland, coffee is served with a side of cheese—specifically, a squeaky, mild cheese called “leipäjuusto” or “bread cheese.” You dunk the cheese into your coffee and let it soak up the flavor before eating it.
It’s like coffee’s version of dipping cookies in milk, but much heartier. If you’re open to a savory twist, give it a try!
Also read: French Press vs. Pour-Over: Which Coffee Brewing Method Is Right for You?
Ready to Expand Your Coffee Horizons?
There you have it—a whole menu of unusual coffee drinks to add to your must-try list. Whether you’re whipping up a creamy egg coffee, indulging in buttery goodness, or sipping on an espresso tonic, these creative concoctions prove that coffee is way more versatile than you ever imagined.
So, why not step out of your comfort zone and try something new? Who knows—you might just discover your next favorite brew. Cheers to coffee adventures!
Got a favorite unusual coffee drink or an experience to share? Drop it in the comments below—we’d love to hear about it!