Do you put cream and sugar in mushroom coffee?

November 24, 2025 •

5 min read

According to anecdotal reports, mushroom coffee can have an earthy taste that may not be palatable to everyone, leading many to wonder about additives. Yes, you can put cream and sugar in mushroom coffee, just as you would with a traditional cup of joe, to soften its earthy notes and improve the overall flavor. This customization allows you to enjoy the potential health benefits of functional mushrooms like Lion's Mane and Chaga without sacrificing taste.

Quick Summary

It is perfectly acceptable to add cream and sugar to mushroom coffee to enhance its taste and texture. Adding sweeteners or creamers can balance the earthy flavors of mushroom extracts, making the drink more enjoyable. Common additions include dairy milk, plant-based alternatives like oat or almond milk, natural sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup, and flavored creamers. The choice depends on personal taste and dietary preferences.

Key Points

Additives are Personal Preference: You can and should add cream and sugar if it makes your mushroom coffee more enjoyable, just like traditional coffee.
Mask the Earthy Flavor: Cream and sugar are effective tools for balancing the often earthy or bitter notes of certain mushroom extracts like Chaga or Reishi.
Balance Health Goals: While additives improve taste, be mindful of sugar content if you are consuming mushroom coffee for wellness benefits, as excess sugar can be counterproductive.
Choose Healthier Alternatives: For a healthier option, consider plant-based milks like oat or almond milk and natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
Enhance Flavor with Spices: Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract are excellent, low-calorie ways to add warmth and complexity to your brew.
Consider Brewing Methods: Using a frother or blender can significantly improve the texture of instant mushroom coffee, ensuring a smooth, creamy finish.

Customizing Your Mushroom Coffee: Cream, Sugar, and Beyond

Mushroom coffee is a trendy beverage that blends traditional coffee grounds with extracts from functional mushrooms, including Chaga, Reishi, and Lion's Mane. Fans of the drink tout its potential health benefits, such as reduced caffeine jitters and support for cognitive function. However, the earthy, and sometimes bitter, taste of the mushroom extract can be an acquired flavor for some. This is where the question of adding cream and sugar comes in, and the good news is that you have full control over your cup, just like with regular coffee.

Why Add Cream and Sugar?

The primary reason for adding sweeteners and creamers is to improve the taste profile. The distinct, earthy flavor of certain mushroom varieties can be overpowering for some palates. Creamers add a velvety texture and richness, while sweeteners balance the bitterness. For many, the ritual of adding milk and sugar is a comforting part of their morning routine, and there's no reason to abandon it when switching to a mushroom-infused brew. The key is to choose your additives wisely to align with your health goals, as excessive sugar can counteract the intended wellness benefits.

Choosing Your Creamer: Dairy vs. Plant-Based

There is a wide array of options available for those who prefer a creamy, richer texture. Your choice often depends on your dietary needs and desired flavor profile.

Dairy-Based Creamers: Traditional milk, heavy cream, or half-and-half are classic choices that add a rich, smooth body to the coffee. Heavy cream, in particular, is a popular option for those on a keto diet.
Plant-Based Creamers: These alternatives are excellent for individuals who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply prefer a lighter option. Popular choices include oat milk, almond milk, and coconut milk. Oat milk provides a creamy, neutral flavor, while coconut milk adds a subtle tropical sweetness.
Specialty Creamers: Some brands offer mushroom coffee-specific creamers or functional creamers that contain MCT oil for an added health boost. These are designed to complement the mushroom flavor and wellness focus.

Picking Your Sweetener: Natural vs. Artificial

Adding sweetness can make mushroom coffee more palatable, especially when first starting. Consider these options to find your perfect balance:

Natural Sweeteners: Honey and maple syrup are popular choices that add a complex, natural sweetness. Honey offers a floral note, while maple syrup contributes an earthy warmth.
Sugar Alternatives: If you are watching your sugar intake, alternatives like stevia or monk fruit can provide sweetness without the calories. These are a good choice for those adhering to a low-carb or ketogenic diet.
Other Sweeteners: A small amount of coconut sugar can also be used, offering a more caramel-like flavor compared to regular granulated sugar.

Comparison of Mushroom Coffee Additives


Additive Type	Examples	Taste Impact	Health Considerations	Best For...
Dairy Creamers	Milk, Heavy Cream	Richer, smoother texture. Softens bitterness.	Higher fat content; can increase calorie count. Not dairy-free.	Those who prefer a classic, creamy coffee and aren't dairy-free.
Plant-Based Milks	Oat, Almond, Coconut	Provides creamy texture with a unique flavor profile.	Lower in fat and calories; suitable for vegans and the lactose intolerant.	Balancing creaminess with dietary restrictions.
Natural Sweeteners	Honey, Maple Syrup	Adds a complex, natural sweetness. Can complement earthy notes.	Contains natural sugars; consume in moderation.	Those who want sweetness but prefer a natural alternative.
Zero-Calorie Sweeteners	Stevia, Monk Fruit	Provides sweetness without added sugars or calories.	No impact on blood sugar levels; good for low-carb diets.	Reducing sugar intake while still enjoying a sweet taste.
Spices	Cinnamon, Nutmeg	Adds warmth and aromatic complexity.	Can enhance flavor without adding calories or sugar.	Adding depth of flavor without extra calories.

Potential Downsides of Adding Cream and Sugar

While customizing your mushroom coffee is a matter of personal preference, it's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks, particularly if you are drinking it for health reasons. The benefits of mushroom coffee often come from the low-caffeine content and adaptogenic properties. Loading it with sugar can spike blood glucose levels and counteract some of the intended wellness effects. Similarly, adding high-calorie creamers could negate weight management goals. The choice to add these ingredients should be a conscious one, weighing the enhanced flavor against your personal health objectives.

Enhancing Flavor Without Sugar or Dairy

If you want to mask the earthy taste of mushroom coffee without adding sugar or dairy, there are other creative options. Consider incorporating warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of vanilla extract for a more aromatic experience. Alternatively, blending your mushroom powder with a tablespoon of nut butter, like almond butter, can add richness and a nutty flavor while contributing healthy fats and protein. This approach allows you to experiment with flavors while staying true to a cleaner, wellness-focused routine.

How to Brew a Better-Tasting Mushroom Coffee

Start with the basics: Use fresh, filtered water to avoid any off-flavors. Make sure your water is hot, but not boiling, as this can scorch the coffee and mushroom powder.
Mix thoroughly: Especially with instant mushroom coffee powders, it is crucial to mix thoroughly to avoid a gritty or clumpy texture. Using a frother can be highly effective for a smooth consistency.
Use a frother: A simple battery-operated frother or even a small blender can dramatically improve the mouthfeel of your mushroom coffee by creating a creamy foam and ensuring the powders are fully dissolved.
Experiment with ratios: Start with a small amount of mushroom powder and gradually increase it as your palate adjusts to the new flavor. Also, consider the specific type of mushroom in your blend, as flavors can vary. For example, Lion's Mane can have a subtle, nutty taste, while Reishi can be more bitter.

Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Mushroom Coffee

Ultimately, whether you add cream and sugar to your mushroom coffee is a matter of personal preference and health goals. It is completely acceptable and common to do so to improve the taste. However, for those seeking maximum health benefits, using natural sweeteners sparingly and opting for plant-based creamers or flavorings like spices are excellent ways to customize your brew. By understanding the taste profiles and potential drawbacks of each additive, you can create a daily ritual that is both delicious and aligned with your wellness journey. Enjoy the process of discovery to find the perfect mix for you. For more insights on the potential benefits of functional mushrooms, see authoritative sources like this report from News-Medical.net (https://www.news-medical.net/health/The-Truth-About-Mushroom-Coffee-Benefits-vs-Hype.aspx).

Frequently Asked Questions

Adding a small amount of cream and sugar will not entirely negate the health benefits, but using large quantities, especially sugar, can increase calories and counteract the wellness goals of consuming a low-caffeine, adaptogenic beverage.

The best creamer depends on your dietary needs and flavor preferences. Plant-based milks like oat or almond are popular for a low-calorie, dairy-free option, while traditional dairy cream offers a richer texture.

For those avoiding sugar, monk fruit sweetener or stevia are excellent calorie-free alternatives that provide sweetness without impacting blood sugar levels. You can also use natural sweeteners sparingly, such as a drizzle of honey or maple syrup.

Not necessarily. High-quality mushroom coffee is designed to taste primarily like coffee, with only a subtle earthy or nutty undertone from the mushroom extracts. Additives like cream and sugar can help mask any lingering mushroom flavor.

If you are using instant mushroom coffee powder, blending it with hot water using a frother or small blender can prevent a grainy texture and create a smooth, creamy consistency.

Yes, you can use flavored creamers to enhance the taste of mushroom coffee, but it is best to choose natural, high-quality options to complement the earthy notes rather than overpower them. A little vanilla extract or cinnamon can also add flavor naturally.

People often drink mushroom coffee for potential benefits such as increased focus, balanced energy without the jitters, improved immune support, and stress reduction, thanks to adaptogenic mushrooms like Lion's Mane, Chaga, and Reishi.