What's the Deal with Olive Oil in Coffee?

November 12, 2025 •

4 min read

In 2023, Starbucks launched its Oleato line, a collection of olive oil-infused coffee beverages, causing a global stir. This trend, however, has roots in older traditions and presents a fascinating blend of health benefits and flavor dynamics that answer the question: What's the deal with olive oil in coffee?.

Quick Summary

This article explores the rising trend of adding olive oil to coffee, delving into its origin, the potential health benefits of combining these two antioxidant-rich ingredients, and how to prepare your own velvety, nutrient-dense cup at home. It examines the flavor profile, comparing it to other coffee additions, and discusses potential digestive considerations.

Key Points

Origin: The trend was popularized by Starbucks but is inspired by the Mediterranean tradition of consuming olive oil.
Health Benefits: Olive oil in coffee provides healthy monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Texture: Adding EVOO increases the coffee's viscosity, resulting in a rich, creamy, and velvety mouthfeel.
Flavor Profile: High-quality EVOO can soften coffee's bitterness and add nuanced fruity or nutty notes.
Preparation: Proper emulsification using a blender or frother is crucial to prevent the oil and coffee from separating.
Digestive Effects: Starting with a small amount is recommended, as some may experience digestive discomfort due to the fat content.
Calorie Content: Be mindful of the added calories, as one tablespoon of olive oil contains around 120 calories.

The Origin Story: From Sicilian Tradition to Starbucks Innovation

The practice of mixing olive oil and coffee, while a recent sensation in the Western world, is inspired by centuries-old traditions. Former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz reported being inspired during a trip to Sicily, where the ritual of taking a daily spoonful of extra virgin olive oil is commonplace. The idea was to merge this Mediterranean custom with the daily coffee ritual. The resulting Oleato line, first launched in Italy, quickly ignited global curiosity, proving that even a centuries-old product could become a new coffee trend.

The Health-Conscious Appeal

Beyond novelty, the trend is supported by the recognized health benefits of both key ingredients. Olive oil, a cornerstone of the Mediterranean diet, is rich in monounsaturated fats and powerful antioxidants known as polyphenols. Coffee itself is a significant source of antioxidants, and combining the two creates a powerful, synergistic effect. This blend offers a way to potentially combat oxidative stress and inflammation, with proponents also citing benefits like improved cognitive function and sustained energy.

The Sensory Experience: Texture and Flavor

Adding olive oil fundamentally changes the coffee's mouthfeel and flavor. The primary effect is an increase in viscosity, or thickness, which results in a creamy, velvety texture. This can soften coffee's natural bitterness and acidity. The flavor profile is highly dependent on the quality and type of extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) used. A high-quality EVOO can impart subtle, nuanced notes, which can be fruity, grassy, or nutty. In contrast, a lower-grade olive oil may introduce an unpleasant or overly pungent taste.

Comparison: Olive Oil Coffee vs. Bulletproof Coffee

The olive oil coffee trend is sometimes compared to 'Bulletproof Coffee,' a recipe that combines coffee with grass-fed butter and MCT oil. While both incorporate fats for energy, they have key differences.


Feature	Olive Oil Coffee	Bulletproof Coffee
Primary Fat Source	Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO)	Grass-fed Butter & MCT Oil
Flavor Profile	Ranges from fruity and nutty to peppery, depending on the olive oil's origin and quality.	Rich, buttery, and creamy. Less variation in flavor profile once emulsified.
Nutritional Emphasis	Monounsaturated fats, polyphenols, and antioxidants.	Saturated fats (from butter), medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs) for rapid energy.
Best Preparation Method	Handheld frother, blender, or shaking to emulsify.	Blender is recommended for proper emulsification and frothiness.
Dietary Context	Fits within the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing whole foods.	Popular in ketogenic or low-carb diets for inducing ketosis.

How to Create Your Own Olive Oil Coffee at Home

Creating your own Oleato-style beverage is simple, but technique is important for proper emulsification. Without proper mixing, the oil and coffee will separate. For best results, use a high-quality, cold-pressed EVOO.

Here is a simple recipe to get you started:

Ingredients
- 1 cup of hot brewed coffee or 2 shots of espresso
- 1 tablespoon of high-quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil
- Optional: Oat milk, sweetener (honey, maple syrup), or spices (cinnamon)
Method
1. Prepare your coffee: Brew your favorite coffee or pull two shots of espresso.
2. Combine and emulsify: In a mug or blender, combine the hot coffee and the tablespoon of EVOO. Use a handheld milk frother or a blender to mix for about 20-30 seconds until a creamy foam forms. Be cautious when blending hot liquids.
3. Customize: For a latte, froth the olive oil with warm milk before combining with the espresso. For a cold drink, blend all ingredients with ice.
4. Enjoy immediately: The velvety texture is best enjoyed right after preparation, before the oil and coffee begin to separate.

Conclusion

Ultimately, adding olive oil to coffee is more than just a fleeting viral trend; it is a fascinating fusion of culinary tradition and modern wellness aspirations. While the concept may raise eyebrows among purists, it offers a novel way to enhance both the flavor and nutritional profile of a daily coffee routine. With potential benefits ranging from a smoother texture to antioxidant support, experimenting with olive oil in coffee can be a delightful and healthy addition to your morning ritual. As with any dietary change, moderation is key, and personal preference ultimately dictates whether this is a beverage for you.

For more on the benefits of healthy fats, consider this resource: A Guide to Healthy Fats.

Important Considerations

Digestive Effects

While generally safe in moderation, some individuals may experience digestive discomfort due to the high fat content and acidity. It's best to start with a small amount to see how your body reacts.

Calorie Density

Olive oil is high in calories (approximately 120 calories per tablespoon). While a healthy fat, it adds to your daily caloric intake and should be factored into dietary goals.

Quality Matters

The quality of olive oil directly impacts the taste and potential health benefits. Always use a high-quality, fresh extra virgin olive oil for the best results.

Is Olive Oil Coffee Just a Fad?

Whether this trend will endure remains to be seen. Some coffee experts view it as a passing novelty, while others see it as a legitimate avenue for beverage innovation. Regardless, it has prompted a wider conversation about infusing coffee with unique and healthy ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions

Olive oil coffee, branded by Starbucks as Oleato, is a beverage made by infusing extra virgin olive oil into hot or cold coffee drinks, which creates a velvety texture and adds subtle, rich flavors.

Yes, incorporating olive oil into coffee can provide healthy fats, potent antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory compounds. The healthy fats can also slow caffeine absorption, providing sustained energy and preventing a caffeine crash.

The taste depends on the olive oil's quality. High-quality EVOO can add fruity, nutty, or herbaceous notes, while also mellowing the coffee's bitterness. Many people also report a smoother, richer texture.

For best results, use a blender or a handheld milk frother to emulsify the olive oil with the hot coffee or milk. Shaking the ingredients in a sealed jar can also work, ensuring a creamy texture.

Yes, you can add olive oil directly to black coffee. While it may provide the health benefits, mixing with a milk alternative can help achieve a smoother, more latte-like consistency.

Some people with sensitive stomachs may experience digestive issues, such as bloating or diarrhea, particularly if they consume larger quantities. The high caloric content should also be considered.

A high-quality, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with a delicate or medium intensity flavor profile is recommended. Avoid cheaper, lower-grade oils, which can produce an unpleasant taste.