Coffee is definitely part of a typical morning routine. Most even say that they cannot function well without drinking coffee first. Different people take their coffee differently. Some are purists, while others like a little milk (whether it’s skimmed, soy or almond) and sugar or other sweetener.
A number of people hate flavoured coffee because of unnecessary added calories, but you can actually add a bit of flavour to your coffee without the extra pounds with any of these 10 ingredients. In fact, aside from enhancing the flavour of your coffee, they also have different health benefits.
1.Coconut Sugar
Replace your regular sugar and use coconut sugar instead to sweeten your coffee. This has been a popular choice for many, but there are still some who are rather hesitant. Coconut in my coffee? Yikes! But the coconut sugar doesn’t taste anything like coconut. It has a caramel flavour that will really go well with coffee, especially ifyou like your coffee strong. it also contains more minerals and has a reduced glycemic index than plain sugar.
2. Coconut Oil
If you’re feeling more experimental, try adding a teaspoon of coconut oil in your cup of coffee to improve your metabolism, lighten up your mood, give you energy, and boost your mental capacity. If you’re avoiding dairy, this is a good choice. It gives a creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavour. To elevate the flavour even further, add1/2 teaspoon vanilla and 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
3. Vanilla Extract
If you like your coffee a little sweeter but will gladly makedo without sugar, vanilla extract is a great substitute; a half teaspoon will do.Itispacked with antioxidants and the vanillin is said to reduce cholesterol and prevent inflammation. If you have an almond extract instead of a vanilla extract in your pantry, you can also try it.
4. Organic Maple Syrup
Maple syrup does not only add sweetness to your coffee. It also offers a lot of health benefits like improving your immune system and digestion. It has numerous antioxidants and other nutrients like zinc and manganese, which are essential in boosting your resistance to infections and in maintaining your white blood cell levels up. For a more heightened flavor, you can add unsweetened almond milk.
5. Cinnamon
Cinnamon goes well with your coffee, particularly with a cold weather because it keeps you warm. Not only does it give you comfort and a feeling of yuletide tidings; it’s also good for your body as it lowers blood sugar and improve LDL(bad)cholesterol. This spice contains vitamin K and iron as well.
6. Cardamom
While cinnamon has been a popular choice among coffee drinkers, another spice that you can drizzle on your coffee is cardamom. It has quite a different flavor than the cinnamon since it is a bit citrusy and floral tasting, but it also warms your body. Like the cinnamon, it’s also good for digestion. You can also get Vitamin C,calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, manganese, and potassium – talk about being packed with nutrients! It’s also reported to improve your cardiovascular system, and it is considered a natural antidepressant.
7.Cacao Powder
For those who love chocolate in their coffee, cacao powder is a great choice. It has antioxidants and contains protein, potassium, manganese, copper, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, and dietary fiber. If you are counting calories, opt for unsweetened cacao powder. For mocha fanatics, mix 2 teaspoons of cacao powder with your 8-ounce coffee.
8. Protein Powder
Some don’t have the appetite for solid food in the morning; the thought just makes their stomachs churn. In this case, you can add protein powder in your cup of joe instead. There are a couple of protein powder flavors, but vanilla tastes perfect with coffee. Put 1/2to 1 scoop of protein powder and add a quarter cup of your preferred milk or creamer.
9. Ginger Root Powder
Ginger in my coffee? Why not! Ginger is usually added on tea, but a hint of ginger in your coffee also tastes good. 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of ginger root powder is enough to give it just enough aroma. You can also finish it off with milk or creamer. Health benefits of ginger include reduction of inflammation, improvement of metabolism, and boosting of immune system.
10. Maca Powder
The thought of adding super food in your coffee is exciting, but kale with coffee don’t exactly pair well. A super food that you can consider is maca, and it actually tastes good with your brew as it gives a butterscotch finish and creamy texture. It is vegan and raw. It’s perfect when you’re feeling stressed or even hormonal. Such an easy fix to sooth and relax you!
