TikTok’s latest viral coffee sensation swaps plain water for coconut water, promising health benefits alongside tropical flavors—but not everyone is convinced by this electrolyte-infused brew.
Quick Takes
- Cloud coffee combines espresso, coconut water, and non-dairy milk for a tropical twist on traditional iced coffee.
- The trend was popularized by Daphne Oz in 2022 as a “hydrating elixir” before gaining recent TikTok fame.
- Coconut water adds valuable electrolytes, potassium, and magnesium, making it more hydrating than regular coffee.
- Dietitians view it as a healthier alternative to sugary creamers and a way to add nutrients to morning routines.
- Health benefits aside, experts warn to watch for added sugars in some coconut waters.
Social Media’s Latest Coffee Innovation
TikTok’s “cloud coffee” trend has captured the attention of both coffee enthusiasts and health-conscious consumers looking to upgrade their morning routine. This trendy beverage takes the familiar concept of an Americano and gives it a tropical makeover by replacing plain water with coconut water. The preparation is simple but specific: pour espresso over ice, add coconut water, and top with a splash of non-dairy milk for a layered effect that resembles clouds – hence the name. While seemingly new to many scrolling through their feeds, the concept has actually been around since 2022, when celebrity Daphne Oz first shared the recipe.
The appeal of cloud coffee extends beyond its photogenic appearance. This beverage represents a significant shift in how Americans approach their daily caffeine fix, moving away from sugar-laden coffee drinks toward options with potential health benefits. As coffee consumption habits evolve, this trend particularly resonates with health-conscious individuals over 40 who want to maintain their coffee ritual while making smarter nutritional choices. The tropical flavor profile offers something novel for those who may have grown tired of conventional black coffee or artificial creamers.
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
The Nutritional Advantage
What sets cloud coffee apart from other coffee trends is its potential health benefits. Coconut water isn’t just a tropical-flavored alternative to plain water – it’s packed with electrolytes including potassium and magnesium. These minerals support hydration and muscle function, potentially offsetting coffee’s diuretic effects. For adults concerned about maintaining proper hydration while enjoying caffeine, this combination addresses a common health concern. Additionally, coconut water contains antioxidants that complement coffee’s own antioxidant properties, potentially enhancing the overall health impact of your morning brew.
Registered dietitian Mackenzie Burgess points out that cloud coffee serves as a nutritional upgrade for many coffee drinkers. “It’s also a lighter, more hydrating alternative to sugary creamers,” she notes, highlighting how this simple substitution can reduce calorie and sugar intake while adding beneficial nutrients. For those with dietary restrictions or who are watching their sugar intake, cloud coffee offers a naturally sweet option without artificial additives. The trend has particularly caught on with health-conscious consumers who previously relied on flavored creamers or sweetened coffee drinks.
Making the Perfect Cloud Coffee
Creating the ideal cloud coffee requires attention to ingredients. Experts recommend using unsweetened coconut water to avoid unnecessary added sugars that would undermine the health benefits. For the milk component that creates the cloud-like effect, Almond Breeze’s Unsweetened Almondmilk Coconutmilk blend has emerged as a popular choice that enhances the tropical notes without adding dairy. Some coffee purists may question whether the coconut flavor overpowers the coffee’s natural profile, but proponents argue that high-quality espresso can stand up to the tropical notes.
While some coffee traditionalists might view this trend with skepticism, nutritionists generally approve of the concept. “Overall, if you’re into the flavor, it’s a fun way to sneak a few extra nutrients into your morning drink,” Burgess advises. This practical approach to nutrition – enhancing existing habits rather than making dramatic changes – aligns with sustainable health practices. For those concerned about artificial ingredients in commercial coffee additives, cloud coffee represents a return to simpler, more natural flavor enhancers while maintaining the ritual of morning coffee that many Americans cherish.
Sources:
Why is everyone obsessed with cloud coffee: Is this trending brew the healthier way to wake up?
