Why are people putting olive oil in their coffee?

October 2, 2025 •

4 min read

The recent trend of adding olive oil to coffee was inspired by the traditional Mediterranean ritual of starting the day with a spoonful of olive oil. This practice was catapulted into the spotlight by Starbucks' launch of its Oleato beverage line in early 2023, leaving many to wonder why are people putting olive oil in their coffee.

Quick Summary

This article explores the reasons behind the olive oil in coffee trend, detailing potential health benefits like sustained energy, heart health, and increased satiety, while also addressing calorie considerations, digestive impacts, and taste nuances.

Key Points

Inspiration from Tradition: The trend of adding olive oil to coffee is rooted in Mediterranean traditions and popularized by Starbucks' Oleato drinks.
Healthy Fats for Energy: The monounsaturated fats in olive oil slow caffeine absorption, providing a more sustained and even energy boost.
Promotes Satiety: Olive oil helps you feel fuller longer, which can assist in appetite control and weight management.
Rich in Antioxidants: Both coffee and olive oil are high in antioxidants, offering combined benefits for fighting inflammation and oxidative stress.
Mindful Consumption: Due to its high calorie density and potential digestive effects, olive oil coffee should be consumed in moderation.

The Origins of the Olive Oil in Coffee Trend

The practice of mixing olive oil with coffee has roots in more traditional wellness practices before gaining mainstream attention. One significant catalyst was Starbucks' introduction of its Oleato line of coffee drinks. The company's then-CEO, Howard Schultz, reported being inspired by a trip to Italy where he observed the daily ritual of consuming a spoonful of extra virgin olive oil. This observation led to the idea of infusing premium Partanna extra virgin olive oil into their coffee, creating a new, velvety, and luxurious beverage experience.

While Starbucks popularized the concept, the trend also draws comparisons to the earlier 'bulletproof coffee' movement, which involves blending coffee with grass-fed butter and MCT oil. Enthusiasts of both drinks often share the goal of incorporating more healthy fats into their morning routine for sustained energy and cognitive function. The move towards olive oil, however, is often seen as a nod to the well-regarded Mediterranean diet, known for its emphasis on healthy fats and potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Potential Health Benefits of Olive Oil Coffee

The reasons for this unusual combination are rooted in the established health benefits of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. When added to coffee, the healthy fats provide several potential advantages:

Sustained Energy and Satiety: The monounsaturated fats in olive oil slow down the digestion of caffeine. This can lead to a more gradual release of energy, preventing the sharp jitters and subsequent crash often associated with regular coffee. The healthy fats also promote a feeling of fullness, which can help control appetite and support weight management.
Heart Health Support: High-quality extra virgin olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, which are plant-based compounds known for their heart-healthy properties. Regular consumption can help lower bad (LDL) cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Rich in Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatory Compounds: Both coffee and olive oil contain powerful antioxidants that help combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress. Olive oil, in particular, contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce chronic inflammation in the body.
Improved Nutrient Absorption: Certain vitamins, including A, D, E, and K, are fat-soluble, meaning they require fat for proper absorption. Adding olive oil to your morning coffee can assist in the absorption of these essential nutrients from other foods consumed throughout the day.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

Despite the touted benefits, incorporating olive oil into your coffee is not without its potential drawbacks, and it's essential to consume it mindfully:

High Calorie Content: Olive oil is calorie-dense, with one tablespoon containing around 119 calories. Adding this to your daily coffee without adjusting overall caloric intake could lead to unintentional weight gain. For those focusing on weight loss, this caloric addition must be considered.
Digestive Discomfort: For some individuals, the combination of coffee (a digestive stimulant) and olive oil (a known laxative) can lead to digestive issues, such as bloating, stomach cramps, or diarrhea. Starting with a small amount, like a teaspoon, is recommended to gauge your body's tolerance.
Taste and Emulsion: The taste is subjective. Using a high-quality extra virgin olive oil is crucial for a pleasant, velvety, and less bitter flavor. Cheap or low-quality oil can taste unpleasant. The oil and coffee will also separate if not properly emulsified using a blender or frother, creating an oily texture that many find unappealing.

How to Make Olive Oil Coffee at Home

Making olive oil coffee is straightforward, but proper technique is key for a smooth, pleasant drink. You'll need a high-quality extra virgin olive oil (mild to medium intensity works best), a cup of your favorite coffee, and a tool for blending.

Classic Olive Oil Coffee Recipe

Brew your coffee: Prepare one cup of hot coffee using your preferred method (drip, espresso, or French press).
Blend the ingredients: Pour the hot coffee into a blender. Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and any other desired additions, like a dash of cinnamon or a small amount of honey.
Emulsify: Blend on high for about 20–30 seconds, or until the mixture is frothy and well-combined. Blending is essential to prevent separation.
Enjoy: Pour into your mug and enjoy the creamy, unique flavor.

Comparison: Olive Oil Coffee vs. Butter Coffee


Feature	Olive Oil Coffee	Butter Coffee (Bulletproof)
Primary Fat Source	Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Monounsaturated Fats)	Grass-fed Butter & MCT Oil (Saturated Fats & MCTs)
Energy Boost	Moderate, sustained energy from healthy fats	Quick boost from MCTs, sustained energy from butter
Heart Health Impact	Considered heart-healthy; may lower LDL cholesterol	Controversial; high in saturated fats, may spike LDL in some
Antioxidants	High antioxidant content from both coffee and EVOO	Antioxidants primarily from coffee; butter offers Vitamin A
Satiety Level	Moderate satiety due to slower digestion	High satiety; proponents use it as a meal replacement
Flavor Profile	Fruity, nutty, and slightly bitter depending on the EVOO	Rich, buttery, and creamy
Digestive Issues	Potential for cramps or diarrhea if overconsumed	Digestive issues possible with excessive MCT oil

Conclusion

The trend of adding olive oil to coffee is a natural evolution of incorporating healthy fats into daily nutrition, inspired by both traditional practices and modern wellness movements. For many, it offers a novel way to enjoy a daily caffeine fix with potential health advantages, including sustained energy and heart health benefits. However, as with any dietary modification, moderation is key due to the high-calorie count and potential for digestive issues. Ultimately, whether this trend is right for you depends on your personal health goals, taste preferences, and how your body responds. By using high-quality ingredients and the right technique, you can elevate your coffee experience while exploring a unique nutritional twist.

For more information on the Mediterranean diet's impact on health, see this authoritative resource on its benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

The taste varies depending on the olive oil used. High-quality extra virgin olive oil with a mild or fruity profile can add a nutty sweetness and velvety texture, often mellowing the coffee's bitterness. Poorer quality oil may taste unpleasant.

To prevent separation, you must emulsify the oil and coffee. The most effective method is to blend the hot coffee and olive oil together in a high-speed blender for 20-30 seconds. A handheld milk frother can also achieve this.

Yes, some people may experience digestive discomfort like bloating, gas, or diarrhea, especially when consuming larger amounts. This is because both coffee and olive oil can have laxative effects. It is best to start with a small quantity to assess your tolerance.

While the healthy fats can increase satiety and potentially reduce overall calorie intake, a tablespoon of olive oil adds nearly 120 calories. Whether it supports weight loss depends on your overall dietary plan; it is not a magic potion.

Bulletproof coffee typically uses grass-fed butter and MCT oil, while olive oil coffee uses extra virgin olive oil. Both aim for sustained energy, but they differ in fat source and overall nutrient profile. Olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats, while butter contains saturated fats.

Most enthusiasts recommend starting with a small amount, such as 1 teaspoon of high-quality extra virgin olive oil per cup of coffee. You can then increase it to a tablespoon, adjusting the amount based on your preference for taste and texture.

For the best flavor and nutritional benefits, you should use a high-quality extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) with a recent harvest date. Mild or medium-intensity EVOOs are often preferred as they complement the coffee flavor rather than overpowering it.