Some of my favorite summer mornings growing up started with the clink of ice, the rich aroma of espresso, and my dad’s laughter echoing from the kitchen. We’d spend early hours blending unlikely ingredients into magic—like tahini in smoothies or creamy dressings that didn’t need dairy. So when I first tried a tahini iced coffee, it felt like home in a glass. That creamy nuttiness from sesame, the boldness of coffee, and a hint of maple—pure alchemy. This recipe is rooted in those creative mornings, when food was both an experiment and a comfort. It’s smooth, naturally energizing, and surprisingly rich, offering an elevated twist on your usual coffee run.
Tahini Iced Coffee Recipe
Tahini Iced Coffee Recipe
Equipment
- A high-speed blender or a cocktail shaker will help emulsify the tahini into the drink.
- A glass for serving
- A spoon for stirring
- A strainer if you like it ultra-smooth.
Ingredients
- 1 double shot of espresso or ½ cup cold brew concentrate
- 1 tablespoon tahini unsweetened, stirred well
- ¾ cup cold oat milk or almond milk
- 1 –2 teaspoons maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Brew the espresso or prepare your cold brew concentrate.
- In a blender or shaker, combine espresso, tahini, oat milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and sea salt.
- Blend or shake until completely smooth and creamy.
- Fill a glass with ice and pour the mixture over it.
- Stir gently and taste; adjust sweetness or milk if needed.
- Serve immediately and enjoy chilled.
Notes
Why I Love This Tahini Iced Coffee
It’s a daring move to take tahini—usually destined for savory dips—and stir it into your morning coffee. But that’s exactly why I love it. This recipe is creamy without cream, nutty without nuts, and comforting without feeling heavy. It’s a drink that surprises people. One sip and they always ask, “Wait, what’s in this?” The blend is full of good-for-you fats and trace minerals that help it fuel you for longer. When I need a pick-me-up that doesn’t leave me jittery or hungry, this is my go-to.
If you’re like me and enjoy experimenting with unexpected combos, you’ll fall in love with how tahini gives your coffee a subtle richness without overpowering it.
Why This Tahini Iced Coffee is Special
The magic of tahini in coffee lies in balance. The bitterness of espresso is mellowed by sesame’s natural oiliness, and when paired with a touch of maple syrup and vanilla, it transforms into something velvety and craveable. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan—no compromises necessary.
Tahini Iced Coffee Ingredients & Substitutions
Here’s what you need—and what you can swap if needed:
| Ingredient | Substitution |
|---|---|
| Espresso | Cold brew or strong brewed coffee |
| Tahini | Almond butter or cashew butter |
| Maple syrup | Honey or date syrup (if not vegan) |
| Oat milk | Almond, cashew, or coconut milk |
I also love using coconut milk ice cubes for a creamy twist.
How to Make This Tahini Iced Coffee: Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brew your espresso or cold brew. Let it chill for a few minutes so it doesn’t melt the ice instantly.
- Combine all ingredients (espresso, tahini, maple, vanilla, milk, sea salt) in a blender or shaker.
- Blend or shake until smooth. As you blend, the tahini combines evenly with the liquid, resulting in a smooth, creamy finish.
- Pour over ice and give it a gentle stir.
- Taste and adjust. Adjust to taste with a bit of extra milk or sweetener if you like it richer.a touch more syrup or a splash more milk if needed.
This simple process delivers rich flavor and café-level texture in just minutes. Everything comes together fast—but the flavor lingers beautifully.
Possible Pitfalls & Tips
Even though tahini iced coffee is easy to make, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the texture and flavor.
Don’t Skip the Shake or Blend
One of the biggest issues people run into is separation. Tahini is rich in natural oils, which don’t always play nice with coffee unless properly emulsified. To avoid a gritty texture or oily layer, shake it hard or blend it well. Just stirring won’t do the trick.
Another issue? Using overly bitter or stale espresso. Since tahini has an earthy edge, pairing it with fresh, low-acid cold brew helps keep the drink balanced.
Avoid Overpowering Add-ins
A little goes a long way. Don’t overdo maple syrup, or your drink might turn cloying. Likewise, only a small pinch of salt is needed—it enhances flavor but too much will make the drink taste off. Stick to creamy plant milks like oat or almond to help smooth out the texture.
Additional Tips & Variations
Once you’ve nailed the classic tahini iced coffee, it’s time to play. There are tons of variations to try, each one delicious and easy to adapt to your own taste.
Try These Flavor Boosters
- Cardamom: Add ⅛ tsp ground cardamom for a Middle Eastern-inspired twist.
- Cocoa or cinnamon: both work great—blend a bit into the mix or use as a decorative topping.
- Espresso Ice Cubes: Freeze leftover coffee for an even bolder brew.
- Coconut Whip: Top it with coconut whipped cream for indulgence.
This drink’s versatility reminds me of how fun it is to get creative with recipes, where flavors mingle beautifully.
Other Tahini Coffee Variations
- Tahini Mocha: Add 1 tsp cocoa powder for a chocolaty note.
- Spicy Sesame: A pinch of cayenne or black pepper can elevate the sesame profile.
- Sweet & Salty: Drizzle maple on the glass rim and dip in flaky sea salt.
Expert Tips & Nutrition Highlights
Tahini may seem like an unusual ingredient in coffee, but it’s secretly packed with nutrients that turn your morning drink into something nourishing, not just energizing.
Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving Estimate)
Here’s a general estimate based on one 12 oz serving with oat milk and maple syrup:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 160 |
| Total Fat | 10g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 14g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 6g (from maple) |
This coffee doesn’t just taste good—it keeps you fuller longer thanks to healthy fats and plant-based protein.
Tahini Iced Coffee FAQ
Is tahini good in coffee?
Yes! Tahini brings a naturally smooth texture and deep, nutty flavor to coffee—no need for milk or synthetic creamers. Its natural oils emulsify beautifully, creating a smooth drink that’s both satisfying and unique.
Why is Gen Z obsessed with iced coffee?
Iced coffee’s visual appeal, endless customization, and year-round vibe make it a Gen Z favorite. It’s a form of self-expression—customizable, social-media-friendly, and easy to blend with alternative milks or trending flavors like tahini.
Why is Thai iced coffee so sweet?
Thai iced coffee is made with robust coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and often cardamom or spices. The sweetness balances the boldness of the brew and gives it a dessert-like quality—unlike tahini iced coffee, which leans more savory and earthy.
What is in CFA iced coffee?
Chick-fil-A’s iced coffee contains cold-brewed coffee, 2% milk, and cane syrup. It’s a simpler formula compared to tahini iced coffee, which includes healthy fats and more nuanced flavors. If you’re after something more wholesome and creative, tahini is the way to go.
What does tahini do for your gut?
Tahini offers a rich source of fiber, beneficial fats, and magnesium—nutrients that contribute to healthy digestion and a balanced gut. It’s also anti-inflammatory and can help regulate blood sugar when paired with protein or caffeine—like in this energizing drink.
What pairs well with tahini?
Tahini pairs beautifully with coffee, chocolate, honey, maple syrup, cinnamon, cardamom, and even citrus. It’s as versatile in drinks as it is in sauces and desserts.
Final Thoughts on This Tahini Iced Coffeer Recipe
Whether you’re craving a creamy caffeine boost or just want to shake up your coffee routine, this tahini iced coffee delivers bold flavor and balanced energy in every sip. It’s proof that a few simple ingredients can create something unexpectedly delicious—and totally memorable. I hope it brings as much joy to your mornings as it does to mine. And if you’re in the mood to keep the creative drinks flowing, don’t miss my Chia Water Recipe—another refreshing twist to brighten your day.
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