Coffee stands as one of the world’s most beloved drinks today, with people downing over 350 billion cups each year. People never fail to show their unending affection for its delectable taste. With modern innovations, you can even infuse coffee into your cake or drop in some ice cubes for a refreshing twist. While some prefer black coffee, others opt for a dash of milk or a sweetener. And recently, you might have also heard that many people swear by adding honey to their coffees.
But what’s the hype all about? The simple truth is that honey enhances the coffee’s sweetness and flavor while offering a range of health benefits.
Give it a shot, and you might just find it’s the perfect addition to your daily brew.
Honey’s Sweetness in Your Coffee
Honey has long been used to sweeten various beverages, including coffee, in its raw form and as an experiment. The origins of adding honey to coffee can’t be traced to a specific person. It likely started with coffee enthusiasts who enjoy trying different flavors and sweeteners. People have also experimented with ingredients like salt, nitrogen, and cinnamon in the quest for unique coffee flavors.
Honey brings a sweet touch to your coffee, and it’s quite different from sugar, offering a range of distinct flavors. Also, the flavor of honey in your coffee depends on the specific type you pick, and there are plenty to choose from. Some popular honey varieties include:
- Manuka honey
- Clover honey
- Tupelo honey
- Eucalyptus honey
- Sourwood honey
- Creamed honey
- Blossom honey
The rule of thumb is that lighter-colored honey tends to have a milder flavor. So, if you prefer a hint of sweetness without a strong honey taste, go for white honey. On the other hand, if you love the taste of honey, dark-colored honey will give your coffee the rich flavor you crave.
The Advantages of Honey as a Natural Coffee Sweetener
Honey’s popularity in coffee is mirrored in its use in tea as a healthier alternative to sugar and artificial flavorings. Moreover, many people are adding honey to their coffee nowadays, but is it a good idea? Opting for sweetness has consequences, as sweeter things often mean more calories. Adding honey to your coffee increases calorie intake, but it’s worth noting that honey also offers health advantages. So, combining the goodness of coffee and honey can be seen as a healthier choice compared to other sweeteners.
We firmly believe that natural products are the best choice. When it comes to coffee, it’s not only great for your health but also for the environment. Additionally, here’s a quick look at why honey could be the perfect ingredient you’re looking for:
- Packed with nutrients (depending on the nectar):
Honey contains essential vitamins like Vitamin A, Riboflavin, and Vitamin B6, as well as Calcium, Zinc, Iron, and Vitamin C – all the good stuff! And the best thing is you get most of it, whether you choose. Tupelo or blossom honey.
- Ant-microbial Agent
Honey boasts antimicrobial properties and has been used as a traditional remedy for years. Also, remember that warm lemon and honey drink when you have a cold or cough. It’s a tried-and-true home remedy.
- Powerful Antioxidants
Honey’s antioxidants are your tool against various common issues, making it a strong ally in the fight against free radicals and certain health concerns.
- For Allergies
If you suffer from hay fever, a bit of locally sourced honey on your toast can help you build resistance. So, those summer sniffles are a thing of the past.
Choosing the Right Honey for Your Coffee To Make It A Special Product
We think raw honey straight from the hive, without pasteurization or nutrient stripping, is the top pick. It’s all about that pure, natural taste with no preservatives or tricky additives. Also, add it when your coffee isn’t scorching hot to preserve its goodness. Besides, experimenting with different honey varieties is worthwhile to find the flavor that compliments your favorite coffee blend.
Here are a few options to explore:
- Acacia honey is intensely sweet and enhances everyday brews beautifully.
- Clover honey is pleasantly mild without any bitterness.
- Avocado honey, collected from avocado blossoms, has a buttery flavor similar to keto bullet coffees.
- Tupelo honey pairs wonderfully with spiced winter coffees. Additionally, it has a hint of cinnamon.
- Manuka honey, although pricier, boasts powerful health benefits and potency.
- Honey Blossom is a delightful blend of various floral nectars, resulting in a complex and aromatic honey with a hint of wildflowers.
- Palmetto honey offers caramel and fruity notes with a surprisingly robust flavor.
This list doesn’t cover all the honey options available for coffee. So, feel free to mix and match to discover that perfect coffee-honey combo made in heaven.
How to Sweeten Your Coffee with Honey Products
The right amount of honey for your coffee depends on your sweetness preference and dietary considerations. Additionally, keep in mind that one tablespoon of honey packs around 64 calories. And honey is about 25% sweeter than sugar. So, adding one tablespoon of honey to a cup of coffee should suffice. Stir well to dissolve it.
For an extra delightful blend, consider adding a splash of milk. Because, let’s face it, nothing beats the classic combo of milk and honey!
How Long Can You Store Honey?
You might have read somewhere that honey has an impressively long shelf life. That’s absolutely true!
Natural honey doesn’t go bad or expire, making it a great option if you don’t consume it regularly. Besides, you can safely store your jar of honey in your pantry until you need it. Over time, if you keep natural honey in storage for a while, it might change color slightly. But rest assured, it remains safe to eat.
The type of container you use can impact the taste of honey when stored for an extended period. Opt for honey products packed in glass jars rather than metal or plastic for the best and safest storage.
Takeaway
When it comes to enhancing your coffee experience, there are various options. White sugar might not offer many health benefits and could lead to health issues in the long run. Then honey steps in as a healthier choice!
In the end, whether you choose to add honey to your coffee boils down to your personal preferences, taste preferences, and dietary objectives.
