Tahini Coffee: Creamy Superdrink That’s Taking Over 2025

Tahini coffee is the latest creamy twist shaking up the coffee world, thanks to its nutty flavor, plant-based profile, and viral status on social media. Blending roasted sesame paste into hot or iced coffee may sound odd at first, but it’s actually a silky, indulgent experience that offers surprising depth. From boutique cafés in NYC to TikTok baristas and health-conscious home brewers, tahini coffee is quickly becoming a favorite for adventurous sippers. In this article, we’ll explore the story behind this unique drink, how to make it, its benefits, and why it’s more than just another wellness trend.

The Rise of Tahini Coffee

From Middle Eastern Staple to Coffee Shop Menus

I still remember the first time I saw tahini in a coffee—it caught me completely off guard. I was scrolling through Instagram and came across a barista swirling a spoonful of sesame paste into a hot latte. At first, I thought, “Sesame? In coffee?” But the golden swirl was mesmerizing, and the more I read, the more intrigued I became. That was my introduction to tahini coffee, and I haven’t looked back since.

Originally known for its place in Middle Eastern savory dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush, tahini is a paste made from ground sesame seeds. It’s deeply rooted in centuries of culinary tradition, especially across the Levant and Mediterranean. But in recent years, this creamy, nutty staple has taken a new form—as a surprising yet luxurious addition to coffee.

Thanks to viral sensations like Maman’s Salted Tahini Honeycomb Latte and Edith’s Frozen Tahini Cold Brew in New York, tahini coffee has earned a spot in the mainstream café scene. These drinks started showing up on boutique coffee shop menus and quickly gained traction online. Yelp reported a 678% increase in searches for “tahini coffee,” confirming that this isn’t just a passing curiosity—it’s a movement toward globally inspired coffee experiences.

Why It Went Viral (and Stayed)

So why did tahini coffee go from niche café experiment to full-blown beverage phenomenon?

First, it photographs beautifully. The contrast of deep coffee with the pale swirl of tahini makes for a compelling visual. But beyond aesthetics, this drink taps into deeper desires—flavor innovation, health-conscious indulgence, and plant-based living.

Tastewise, tahini offers something unexpected yet comforting. Its earthy, nutty flavor pairs well with the natural bitterness of coffee. Add a bit of honey or date syrup, and the combination becomes rich, layered, and satisfying. It’s not too sweet, not too sharp—just a creamy, cozy middle ground.

Culturally, it represents a shift toward global flavor exploration. In a world where turmeric lattes and ube milk teas have already gained cult status, tahini coffee is the next evolution in “international sips.” It’s also uniquely flexible—it can be hot or iced, sweetened or unsweetened, minimalist or fancy.

The rise of tahini coffee aligns with the current movement in wellness-focused cafés to serve beverages that feel special but still support health goals. It checks every box: plant-based, low-sugar, functional, and—most importantly—memorable.

So whether you’re a latte purist or a trend-loving foodie, tahini coffee invites you to sip something different. And trust me, once you try it, it just might become your go-to indulgence.

Tahini Coffee

This rich, creamy tahini coffee blends bold espresso or brewed coffee with nutty sesame paste for a dairy-free latte alternative. It's comforting, nutritious, and quick to prepare.

Ingredients (Use separate lines)

• 1 cup brewed coffee or espresso
• 1 tablespoon tahini (smooth and pourable)
• 1 –2 teaspoons maple syrup or honey (optional)
• 1/4 cup oat or almond milk (optional)
• Pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions (Use numbered steps)

1. Brew your coffee or prepare a double shot of espresso.
2. In a mug, stir the tahini into the hot coffee until smooth and fully blended.
3. Add maple syrup or honey, adjusting sweetness to taste.
4. Optional: Stir in cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
5. If using milk, steam or froth and pour it into the coffee.
6. For iced tahini coffee, blend all ingredients and serve over ice.

Drinks

Middle Eastern Fusion

dairy-free coffee, tahini coffee, vegan coffee

What Tahini Tastes Like in Coffee

Nutty, Creamy, and Surprisingly Balanced

So, what does tahini taste like in coffee? Imagine your favorite latte—but with a toasted twist. When blended into coffee, tahini adds a deep, nutty undertone that feels both bold and comforting. It’s not sweet on its own, and that’s what makes it so versatile. The roasted sesame flavor pairs beautifully with dark, chocolatey coffee beans, creating a sophisticated profile that’s more savory than sugary.

Think of it like peanut butter’s sleeker, earthier cousin—but without the overpowering thickness. It’s subtle, with a touch of bitterness and warmth. The result is a drink that tastes more like an elevated treat than a dessert. Add in natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey, and you unlock the full flavor potential of tahini coffee: rich, smooth, with just the right touch of indulgence.

Many cafés even add a sprinkle of sea salt or cinnamon to bring out the drink’s complexity. If you enjoy layered flavors and crave something outside the basic vanilla or caramel routine, tahini coffee might become your new favorite.

Texture Matters: Tahini’s Role as a Natural Creamer

Taste aside, tahini shines in coffee because of one thing: texture.

When stirred into a hot drink, tahini emulsifies beautifully. The healthy fats in sesame seeds create a creamy, velvety consistency that rivals traditional dairy or processed creamers—without the added sugar or artificial ingredients. That makes it a dream for people who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply trying to cut back on dairy.

Unlike plant-based milks that sometimes separate or lack body, tahini has a full, rich texture that gives your coffee a luxurious mouthfeel. When you froth it with almond or oat milk, it creates a foam that holds up beautifully. You don’t need heavy cream to enjoy a latte that feels indulgent. Just one tablespoon of tahini turns a simple cup of coffee into something elevated and nourishing.

If you’ve ever tried bulletproof coffee or added nut butters to smoothies for creaminess, tahini coffee will feel instantly familiar. It gives you that same satisfying body—but with a globally inspired flavor.

Is Tahini Coffee Healthy?

Plant-Based Perks: Nutrient-Rich and Functional

One of the biggest reasons tahini coffee is taking off? It’s not just tasty—it’s genuinely good for you. As people move toward cleaner, more intentional ingredients, tahini coffee has carved out a space in the world of functional wellness drinks.

Let’s start with tahini itself. Made purely from ground sesame seeds, tahini is packed with plant-based fats, protein, and essential minerals like calcium, iron, zinc, and magnesium. Unlike many flavored syrups or non-dairy creamers that are high in sugar or fillers, tahini delivers real nutritional value with every spoonful.

When added to coffee, it offers satiety—meaning you stay fuller longer and may avoid those mid-morning sugar cravings. The healthy fats also support brain function, hormone balance, and even skin health. Plus, sesame seeds are naturally anti-inflammatory, making this a smart choice for people following anti-inflammatory or heart-healthy diets.

It’s also perfect for those on vegan, gluten-free, or dairy-free plans. No additives, no preservatives, no mystery oils—just real food that works for real goals.

Energy Without the Crash

We all love coffee for the caffeine boost, but what we don’t love is the jittery crash that can follow. Here’s where tahini coffee becomes a game-changer.

Thanks to its healthy fat content, tahini helps slow down the absorption of caffeine. That means you still get the energy you’re looking for—but in a more sustained, even way. It’s like putting the brakes on a caffeine rollercoaster and turning it into a smooth ride.

This makes tahini coffee especially popular with people practicing intermittent fasting, low-carb eating, or anyone trying to reduce blood sugar spikes. You’re feeding your brain and body without relying on sugary lattes or energy drinks.

So yes, tahini coffee is absolutely healthy—as long as you keep the sweeteners balanced. A drizzle of maple syrup or honey adds flavor without going overboard. And if you want a little spice, cinnamon or cardamom offer extra benefits without the calories.

How to Make Tahini Coffee at Home

Simple, Customizable Recipe

You don’t need a fancy espresso machine or barista badge to make tahini coffee at home. In fact, this creamy drink is incredibly easy to whip up with just a few ingredients you likely already have in your pantry.

The key? Start with good-quality tahini—look for one that’s smooth, pourable, and made from 100% sesame seeds (no added oils or preservatives). Pair that with strong brewed coffee or espresso, your favorite plant-based milk (oat or almond work beautifully), and a touch of sweetener.

Flavor Variations and Tips

Once you’ve mastered the base, the variations are endless. Add cocoa powder for a tahini mocha, a pinch of sea salt for contrast, or a dash of cardamom for Middle Eastern flair. Prefer something cooler? Blend it with ice for a frozen version that feels like a sesame frappe.

Here are a few pro tips:

• Use a frother or blender: This helps emulsify the tahini so it doesn’t separate.
• Warm the tahini first: Especially in winter, a quick 5-second microwave warm-up makes it easier to mix.
• Light vs. dark tahini: Light tahini offers a milder, slightly sweeter taste, while roasted varieties give a deeper, toastier flavor.

And if you’re feeling adventurous? Add a drizzle of date syrup or a splash of rose water for a twist that’s both elegant and exotic.

FAQs About Tahini Coffee

Conclusion

Tahini coffee may have started as a curious café trend, but its staying power comes from how beautifully it blends tradition, flavor, and function. It’s rich and nutty, yet simple and natural. It brings together the heart of Middle Eastern flavors with the comfort of a morning cup.

Whether you’re new to tahini or already a fan, adding it to your coffee is a small shift that can make your daily ritual feel brand new. It’s indulgent, but in the best way—supporting your health while still tasting like a treat.

With just a few ingredients and a bit of curiosity, you can create a drink that feels both familiar and extraordinary. And who knows? This might become your new favorite way to start the day.