Decoding Your Brew: Is There Caffeine in Coconut Coffee?

November 8, 2025 •

4 min read

Studies show that while black coffee has minimal calories, adding ingredients significantly alters its nutritional value. This holds true for the trendy, tropical brew, but the primary question remains: is there caffeine in coconut coffee? The short answer is yes, as it contains coffee, but the specific amount depends entirely on how it's prepared.

Quick Summary

Coconut coffee's caffeine content is determined by the coffee used, as coconut milk contains no caffeine. It combines strong brewed coffee with coconut cream or milk and often sweeteners, impacting overall nutrition, calories, and sugar.

Key Points

Caffeine Source: The caffeine in coconut coffee comes from the brewed coffee, not the naturally caffeine-free coconut milk.
Caffeine Level Varies: The final caffeine content depends on the type and strength of the coffee used, such as robusta versus instant coffee.
High in Fats: Coconut milk and cream are high in calories and saturated fats, including Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCTs), which offer a quick energy source.
Beware of Sugar: Added sweeteners like condensed milk significantly increase the sugar and calorie content of the drink.
Dairy-Free Alternative: Coconut coffee can serve as a suitable dairy-free option for those with lactose intolerance or a vegan diet.
Nutrient-Dense: It offers micronutrients like manganese, iron, and potassium from the coconut milk.
Moderation is Key: Due to its high fat and calorie content, especially with added sugars, it's best consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Coconut coffee is a delightful and creamy beverage that has gained global popularity, particularly the Vietnamese-style Cà Phê Dừa. As more people seek alternative ways to enjoy their morning cup, this tropical-infused drink offers a unique flavor profile. For those mindful of their diet and nutrition, understanding its composition is key. While the coconut provides a distinct flavor and creamy texture, it is the coffee component that is the source of the stimulant.

The Caffeine Factor: It All Comes Down to the Coffee

It is important to clarify that coconut milk, derived from the grated flesh of mature coconuts, is naturally caffeine-free. The caffeine in coconut coffee comes exclusively from the addition of coffee. The total amount of caffeine can vary substantially depending on several factors, including the type of coffee used, the brewing method, and the serving size. For instance, a coffee made with strong Vietnamese Robusta beans, known for their high caffeine content, will have a more potent kick than one made with a light roast or instant coffee. Pre-packaged coconut coffee products will list their specific caffeine content on the label, which can range from low to high depending on the blend. For example, one ready-to-drink product was noted to contain 180mg of caffeine per serving, while a serving of another instant blend had around 56mg.

Deconstructing Coconut Coffee's Nutrition

Beyond the caffeine, the nutritional value of coconut coffee is a result of all its components. Understanding each ingredient helps in making informed dietary choices.

Coconut Milk and Cream

Coconut milk and cream are high in calories and saturated fat. A single cup of raw, unsweetened coconut milk can contain over 500 calories and nearly 60 grams of fat. The fat is largely composed of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are easily absorbed and metabolized by the body, providing a quick source of energy. In addition to fats, coconut milk contains several essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, manganese, magnesium, and potassium. While the MCTs may offer some metabolic benefits, the high saturated fat and calorie content means moderation is crucial, especially for those monitoring their fat intake or with certain health conditions like dyslipidemia.

The Coffee Base

Black coffee is a simple, calorie-free addition to the brew, providing antioxidants and other compounds that have been linked to potential health benefits, such as reduced risk of certain cancers and type 2 diabetes. The specific antioxidant profile can vary based on the roast level, with light roasts potentially having higher levels of some antioxidants.

The Sweeteners and Additions

Traditional Vietnamese coconut coffee recipes often call for sweetened condensed milk, which adds a significant amount of sugar and calories. Homemade versions might use maple syrup, honey, or plain sugar. These additions can quickly turn a simple beverage into a dessert-like treat, so it's important to be mindful of the amount. For a vegan-friendly version, sweetened condensed coconut milk can be used, while keto versions might rely on the natural sweetness of the coconut milk or use sugar-free alternatives.

Crafting Your Own Coconut Coffee: Recipe and Variations

Making your own coconut coffee allows for full control over the ingredients and nutritional profile. Here is a simple recipe for a delicious iced version.

Vietnamese-Style Iced Coconut Coffee

Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee or espresso, chilled
- 1/2 cup full-fat canned coconut milk
- 2 tbsp sweetened condensed milk (adjust to taste, or use condensed coconut milk for a vegan option)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Combine the coconut milk and sweetened condensed milk in a blender. Blend until smooth and frothy, or just whisk vigorously for a similar effect.
2. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
3. Pour the chilled coffee over the ice.
4. Top with the coconut milk mixture.
5. Stir to combine the layers and enjoy immediately.

For a hot version, simply warm the coconut and condensed milk mixture before adding the hot coffee.

Comparison of Coffee Options


Feature	Black Coffee	Traditional Coconut Coffee	Health-Conscious Coconut Coffee
Caffeine	Present, varies by brew	Present, varies by brew	Present, varies by brew
Calories	Minimal (approx. 2-5 kcal/cup)	Moderate to High (varies with sweeteners)	Moderate (lower without added sugar)
Fat (g)	0	Higher (from coconut milk)	Higher (from coconut milk)
Sugar (g)	0	Higher (from condensed milk)	Minimal (use unsweetened milk)
Dairy-Free	Yes	No (contains condensed milk)	Yes (if using vegan ingredients)

Conclusion

In summary, coconut coffee does contain caffeine, as its foundation is brewed coffee. The amount of caffeine is dependent on the strength and type of coffee used. While coconut milk itself is caffeine-free, it significantly impacts the drink's nutritional profile by adding healthy fats, but also calories. Traditional recipes that include sweetened condensed milk will dramatically increase the sugar content. For a more health-conscious option, you can easily control the nutritional components by using unsweetened coconut milk and natural or zero-calorie sweeteners. By understanding the ingredients, you can enjoy this creamy, tropical beverage as a delightful treat while remaining mindful of your overall nutrition. Learn more about the health benefits and risks of coconut milk here.

Note: The nutritional information can vary based on specific brands and ingredients used. Always check product labels for the most accurate data.

Frequently Asked Questions

No, coconut milk is naturally caffeine-free. The caffeine in a coconut coffee beverage comes from the coffee that is added to it.

Vietnamese coconut coffee, or cà phê cốt dừa, is a popular drink made by mixing strong Vietnamese coffee with a sweet, creamy, and often slushy mixture of coconut milk or cream and sweetened condensed milk.

The healthiness of coconut coffee depends on its preparation. While it contains healthy fats (MCTs) from coconut milk, traditional versions can be high in calories and sugar due to condensed milk. For a healthier option, use unsweetened coconut milk and limit added sugar.

Yes, it is very simple to make at home. It requires brewing strong coffee and blending it with coconut milk or cream, a sweetener of choice, and ice for an iced version.

Many people choose coconut milk in their coffee for its creamy texture and distinct, tropical flavor. It's also a popular dairy-free alternative for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a plant-based diet.

Strong roasts, such as Vietnamese Robusta or a dark roast blend, are often recommended for coconut coffee. Their bold flavor stands up well to the richness of the coconut milk.

To create a healthier coconut coffee, use unsweetened coconut milk to control fat intake and use a natural, low-calorie, or zero-calorie sweetener instead of condensed milk or sugar. You can also monitor your portion sizes to manage calorie intake.