During the COVID-19 pandemic, we all saw the rise of the dalgona coffee. Then came the matcha, which continues to be youngsters' favourite. Now, TikTok’s latest obsession is cloud coffee, a refreshing, aesthetically pleasing drink that combines the richness of coffee with the coolness of coconut water and plant-based milk. But beyond the visual appeal, is cloud coffee actually healthy?
We spoke to Dr Saurish Hegde, Assistant Professor (Community Medicine), KVG Medical College and Hospital, Sullia, author and founder of the Food Chain Campaign, to find out if this trend is worth sipping or skipping.
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What Is Cloud Coffee?
In Dr Hegde’s words, “Cloud coffee is nothing but a chilled milkshake version of a regular coffee.” The drink blends together familiar ingredients in an unexpected way, creating something that's both energising and hydrating.
How it’s made:
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- Start by preparing the coffee base by mixing the instant coffee powder with hot water and allowing it to settle.
- In a tall glass, pour in one cup of coconut water.
- Add some non-dairy milk, like oat or almond milk.
- Toss in a few ice cubes.
- Top with the prepared coffee base and give it a good stir.
- Garnish with toppings like cinnamon, cocoa powder, or even whipped cream if you like.
Is It Loaded With Caffeine Or Sugar?
Unlike many trendy drinks that are high in sugar and sometimes caffeine, cloud coffee keeps things relatively clean and simple.
“It actually has less processed sugar than regular coffee,” explained Dr Hegde. “The sweetness mostly comes from coconut water, which contains natural sugars.”
To break it down:
- 1 cup of processed sugar contains 70–100 calories.
- ½ cup of coconut water has around 45 calories.
Caffeine-wise, it’s not particularly high either; it depends on how much coffee you use. But because it’s mixed with other ingredients, the intensity is usually mellowed out.
Are There Any Health Benefits?
Turns out, cloud coffee has more going for it than just good looks. According to Dr Hegde, the nutritional benefits primarily come from the coconut water, which is rich in electrolytes and antioxidants.
“Coconut water aids digestion and hydration,” he said. “Combined with non-dairy milk, it becomes a lighter, lactose-free option that may be easier on the stomach.”
Also Read: Sip Your Way to Better Health: Top Benefits of Drinking Kerala Special 'Chukku Kaapi' Daily
Any Downsides To Drinking It Daily?
The good news: there aren’t any serious red flags.
“The only potential concern is caffeine dependency, but that’s true for any type of coffee,” said Dr Hegde. “Otherwise, cloud coffee is a pretty safe and interesting variation, though it may take some getting used to if you’re a traditional coffee lover.”
The flavour is different – more mellow, slightly tropical, and not as bold as your regular brew.
How Cloud Coffee Affects Blood Sugar Levels
Like most caffeinated drinks, cloud coffee can cause a temporary spike in both blood sugar and energy levels. Caffeine stimulates the nervous system, and the natural sugars in coconut water break down into glucose, providing a burst of energy.
That said, it’s less sugary than a typical coffee-shop frappé or sweetened iced latte. As with all things, moderation is key, especially if you have insulin sensitivity or are watching your sugar intake.
Conclusion
If you’re curious about trying cloud coffee, go for it, especially if you're looking for a light, naturally sweetened, dairy-free option. It’s simple to make and comes with some bonus hydration benefits. But will it replace your morning espresso? Probably not. But for a refreshing twist, especially in warm weather or post-workout, cloud coffee might just be the trend worth keeping.