TikTok’s newest viral coffee sensation combines tropical hydration with caffeine for a trend that grandchildren are calling “cloud coffee,” but is this coconut water-infused drink worth the hype?
Quick Takes
- “Cloud coffee” uses coconut water instead of plain water, creating a tropical twist on traditional coffee
- The drink provides electrolytes from coconut water while delivering caffeine’s energy boost
- Television personality Daphne Oz popularized the recipe in 2022 as a “hydrating elixir”
- Nutritionists note it offers a healthier alternative to sugary coffee creamers
- The trend requires minimal ingredients: espresso, coconut water, and non-dairy milk
A New Take on Your Morning Brew
A new coffee trend called “cloud coffee” is taking over TikTok, offering an alternative to traditional coffee preparations. Unlike a standard cup of joe, cloud coffee substitutes coconut water for plain water, creating what enthusiasts describe as a more hydrating and nutritious morning beverage. The drink is surprisingly simple to make – pour espresso over ice, add coconut water, and top with a splash of non-dairy milk for a creamy finish. This creates a layered effect reminiscent of clouds, hence the trendy name that’s capturing attention across social media platforms.
Television personality Daphne Oz initially popularized this coconut water coffee concoction in 2022, but it has recently experienced a resurgence in popularity. The drink essentially functions as a tropical take on an Americano, with coconut water adding both flavor and nutritional benefits. For those looking to enhance the tropical flavor profile, some versions incorporate a dash of coconut milk instead of other non-dairy alternatives, further enhancing the drink’s signature taste while maintaining its health-conscious appeal.
This ‘cloud’ coffee trend is taking over TikTok — it’s a great way to ‘sneak in a few extra nutrients’ https://t.co/AO5tPoPusQ pic.twitter.com/NNxrdpt8Y2
— New York Post (@nypost) May 12, 2025
Health Benefits Beyond Basic Caffeine
The appeal of cloud coffee extends beyond its unique flavor profile to include several potential health advantages. Coconut water naturally contains electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, making the drink more hydrating than regular coffee, which can have a diuretic effect. This combination addresses one of the common complaints about traditional coffee consumption – dehydration. For those who typically experience jitters from caffeine, the minerals in coconut water may help offset some of these effects, potentially offering a smoother energy boost.
Nutritionists have taken note of this trend’s potential benefits. Dietitian Mackenzie Burgess highlights that coconut water provides antioxidants that regular water doesn’t offer. Additionally, the drink presents a lighter alternative to sugar-laden coffee creamers and flavored syrups that many Americans rely on to make their coffee palatable. For weight-conscious coffee drinkers who still want flavor, this tropical alternative adds taste without the excessive calories found in many coffee shop specialty drinks.
Considerations Before Jumping on the Trend
Despite its growing popularity and potential benefits, cloud coffee may not appeal to everyone’s taste preferences. The tropical flavor of coconut water creates a distinctive taste that diverges significantly from traditional coffee profiles. Health-conscious consumers should also be aware that not all coconut waters are created equal – many commercial brands contain added sugars that could undermine the health benefits. Nutrition experts recommend carefully checking labels and choosing coconut water with minimal or no added sugars to maximize the drink’s health potential.
For those looking to try the trend at home, simplicity is key. Quality espresso serves as the foundation, while coconut water provides the tropical twist. For added creaminess without excessive calories, options like Almond Breeze’s Unsweetened Almondmilk Coconutmilk blend can complement the flavor profile. Though currently popular on social media, the staying power of cloud coffee remains to be seen – but for those seeking a more nutritious coffee alternative with tropical flair, this trend offers an interesting deviation from the standard morning routine.
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Why is everyone obsessed with cloud coffee: Is this trending brew the healthier way to wake up?
