18 Delicious Instant Coffee Recipes You Can Make at Home

Instant coffee is a quick and easy way to enjoy your favorite brew without the hassle.

Its convenience makes it perfect for busy mornings or quick pick-me-ups.

But instant coffee isn’t just for making basic boring coffee.

It can be used in a variety of recipes, from iced coffees to decadent desserts.

In this post, we’ll explore 18 of the best instant coffee recipes you can make at home.

18 Delicious Instant Coffee Recipes: At A Glance

1. Instant Coffee Latte
2. Vanilla Latte
3. White Chocolate Mocha
4. Instant Iced Coffee
5. Caramel Iced Coffee
6. Nutella Iced Coffee
7. Affogato
8. Coffee Chocolate Truffles
9. Silky Coffee Pudding
10. Pumpkin Spice Latte
11. Gingerbread Coffee
12. Peppermint Mocha
13. Honey Cinnamon Brew
14. Nutty Cappuccino
15. Mocha Pumpkin Seeds
16. Dark Mocha Crinkles
17. Chocolate Cappuccino Cheesecake
18. Frozen Mocha Marbled Loaf

Classic Instant Coffee Beverages

1. Instant Coffee Latte

A simple and classic drink that combines instant coffee with hot milk.

The milk is frothed to create a creamy texture, making this latte perfect for a quick and satisfying coffee fix.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)
• 1/4 cup hot water

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Heat the Milk: Warm 1 cup of milk in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
• Froth the Milk: Use a milk frother or whisk to froth the milk until it becomes foamy.
• Combine: Slowly pour the hot milk into the mug with the dissolved coffee, holding back the foam with a spoon.
• Top with Foam: Spoon the foam on top of the latte.
• Sweeten: Add 1 teaspoon of sugar if desired, and stir gently.

2. Vanilla Latte

This recipe blends instant coffee with vanilla syrup and hot milk.

The result is a smooth and sweet latte with a delightful vanilla aroma.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 tablespoon vanilla syrup
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Add Vanilla Syrup: Mix 1 tablespoon of vanilla syrup into the coffee base.
• Heat the Milk: Warm 1 cup of milk in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
• Froth the Milk: Use a milk frother or whisk to froth the milk until it becomes foamy.
• Combine: Slowly pour the hot milk into the mug with the coffee and vanilla syrup mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon.
• Top with Foam: Spoon the foam on top of the latte.

3. White Chocolate Mocha

A decadent drink made by melting white chocolate in warm milk and combining it with instant coffee.

This mocha is rich, creamy, and perfect for chocolate lovers.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 2 ounces white chocolate
• 1 cup milk
• 1/4 cup cream

Instructions:

• Melt the Chocolate: Break 2 ounces of white chocolate into small pieces and place them in a saucepan.
• Heat the Milk and Cream: Add 1 cup of milk and 1/4 cup of cream to the saucepan. Warm the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Do not let it boil.
• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Combine: Slowly pour the warm white chocolate mixture into the mug with the dissolved coffee. Stir gently to combine.

Iced Coffee Variations

4. Instant Iced Coffee

A refreshing cold coffee beverage.

Dissolve instant coffee in cold water, then add ice cubes and milk for a quick and cool coffee treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 cup cold water
• Ice cubes
• 1/2 cup milk

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: In a glass, combine 1 teaspoon of instant coffee with 1 cup of cold water. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes.
• Add Milk: Pour 1/2 cup of milk over the ice and coffee mixture. Stir to combine.

5. Caramel Iced Coffee

A sweet and creamy iced coffee made by mixing instant coffee with caramel syrup and milk.

Served over ice, this drink is both refreshing and indulgent.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 tablespoon caramel syrup
• 1/2 cup milk
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: In a glass, combine 1 teaspoon of instant coffee with 1/4 cup of cold water. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Add Caramel Syrup: Mix in 1 tablespoon of caramel syrup and stir well.
• Add Ice: Fill the glass with ice cubes.
• Add Milk: Pour 1/2 cup of milk over the ice and coffee mixture. Stir to combine.

6. Nutella Iced Coffee

A rich and chocolatey iced coffee.

Blend instant coffee with Nutella and milk, then serve over ice for a deliciously smooth and nutty coffee experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 2 tablespoons Nutella
• 1 cup milk
• Ice cubes

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Dissolve 1 teaspoon of instant coffee in 1/4 cup of warm water.
• Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the dissolved coffee, 2 tablespoons of Nutella, and 1 cup of milk. Blend until smooth.
• Serve Over Ice: Fill a glass with ice cubes. Pour the blended Nutella coffee mixture over the ice.

Dessert-Inspired Coffee Drinks

7. Affogato

A classic Italian dessert made by pouring hot instant coffee over a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

The combination of hot coffee and cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 scoop vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a small cup and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Serve Over Ice Cream: Place a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a serving bowl or glass. Immediately pour the hot coffee over the ice cream.

8. Coffee Chocolate Truffles

Delicious chocolate truffles with a hint of coffee flavor.

Combine melted chocolate with instant coffee and cream, chill, then shape into truffles for a rich and indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Instructions:

• Melt the Chocolate: Place 8 ounces of chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl.
• Prepare the Coffee Cream: In a small saucepan, heat 1/2 cup of heavy cream over medium heat until it begins to simmer. Remove from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of instant coffee until fully dissolved.
• Combine and Chill: Pour the hot coffee cream over the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for a minute, then stir until the chocolate is completely melted and the mixture is smooth. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours until the mixture is firm.
• Shape into Truffles: Once chilled, scoop out small portions of the chocolate mixture and roll them into balls using your hands. Place the truffles on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
• Optional Coating: If desired, roll the truffles in cocoa powder, finely chopped nuts, or powdered sugar for an extra touch.

9. Silky Coffee Pudding

A creamy and smooth pudding made by cooking instant coffee, milk, sugar, and cornstarch until thickened.

Chill before serving for a cool and comforting dessert.

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons instant coffee
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 3 tablespoons cornstarch

Instructions:

• Mix Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, whisk together 2 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 3 tablespoons of cornstarch until the cornstarch is fully dissolved. Add 2 teaspoons of instant coffee and stir until well combined.
• Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture, stirring constantly, until it thickens and begins to bubble. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
• Thicken and Remove from Heat: Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat. Continue stirring for another minute to ensure the pudding is smooth.
• Chill: Pour the pudding into individual serving dishes or a large bowl. Cover with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap directly onto the surface of the pudding to prevent a skin from forming. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
• Serve: Once chilled, the pudding is ready to serve. Optionally, top with whipped cream or chocolate shavings for extra indulgence.

Holiday and Seasonal Coffee Recipes

10. Pumpkin Spice Latte

A seasonal favorite that blends instant coffee with pumpkin puree, spices, and hot milk.

This latte is perfect for fall with its warm and spicy flavors.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
• 1/2 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves)
• 1 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Mix Pumpkin and Spices: In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons of pumpkin puree with 1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice. Stir well.
• Heat the Milk: Warm 1 cup of milk in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
• Combine and Froth: Add the pumpkin and spice mixture to the hot milk. Use a milk frother or whisk to combine and create foam.
• Combine with Coffee: Pour the frothy pumpkin-spice milk into the mug with the dissolved coffee. Stir gently to combine.
• Sweeten: Add 1 teaspoon of sugar if desired, and stir well.

11. Gingerbread Coffee

A festive coffee drink that combines instant coffee with ginger, cinnamon, and cloves.

Add hot milk to create a warm and aromatic beverage.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Mix Spices: Add 1/4 teaspoon of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/8 teaspoon of ground cloves to the coffee. Stir well to blend the spices thoroughly.
• Heat the Milk: Warm 1 cup of milk in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
• Combine and Serve: Pour the hot milk into the mug with the spiced coffee. Stir to combine all the flavors.

12. Peppermint Mocha

A minty and chocolatey coffee drink.

Mix instant coffee with cocoa powder and peppermint extract, then add hot milk for a festive and refreshing mocha.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
• 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Mix Cocoa and Peppermint: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder and 1/4 teaspoon of peppermint extract to the coffee. Stir well to combine.
• Heat the Milk: Warm 1 cup of milk in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
• Combine and Serve: Pour the hot milk into the mug with the coffee mixture. Stir to blend all the flavors.

Unique and Experimental Coffee Drinks

13. Honey Cinnamon Brew

A soothing and sweet coffee drink made by dissolving instant coffee and honey in hot water, then sprinkling with cinnamon.

Perfect for a cozy and comforting cup.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 cup hot water

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Add Honey: Mix in 1 tablespoon of honey and stir until it is fully dissolved in the coffee.
• Sprinkle Cinnamon: Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon on top and stir gently to combine.

14. Nutty Cappuccino

A flavorful cappuccino with a hint of nutty goodness.

Mix instant coffee with hazelnut or almond extract, then add frothed milk for a rich and nutty coffee experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1/4 teaspoon hazelnut or almond extract
• 1 cup milk

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee Base: Boil 1/4 cup of water. Pour it into a mug and add 1 teaspoon of instant coffee. Stir until the coffee granules are completely dissolved.
• Add Nutty Flavor: Mix in 1/4 teaspoon of hazelnut or almond extract and stir well.
• Heat the Milk: Warm 1 cup of milk in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or on the stove until it’s hot but not boiling.
• Froth the Milk: Use a milk frother or whisk to froth the milk until it becomes foamy.
• Combine and Serve: Slowly pour the hot, frothed milk into the mug with the coffee mixture, holding back the foam with a spoon. Once the milk is combined, gently spoon the foam on top.

15. Mocha Pumpkin Seeds

A crunchy and flavorful snack.

Roast pumpkin seeds with instant coffee and cocoa powder for a unique and tasty treat.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1 tablespoon cocoa powder

Instructions:

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the Seeds: Rinse and pat dry 1 cup of pumpkin seeds.
• Mix the Coating: In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of instant coffee and 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder. Mix well.
• Coat the Seeds: Place the pumpkin seeds in a large bowl. Sprinkle the coffee and cocoa mixture over the seeds and toss until they are evenly coated.
• Roast the Seeds: Spread the coated pumpkin seeds in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the seeds are crisp and fragrant.
• Cool and Serve: Allow the seeds to cool completely before serving.

Coffee-Infused Desserts

16. Dark Mocha Crinkles

Chewy and chocolatey cookies with a coffee twist.

Combine instant coffee, cocoa powder, flour, and sugar, then bake into delicious crinkle cookies.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon instant coffee
• 1/2 cup cocoa powder
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar (for rolling)

Instructions:

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Prepare the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 cup of flour, 1/2 cup of cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon of instant coffee, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
• Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat 2 eggs and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until well combined. Add 1/4 cup of vegetable oil and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
• Combine and Chill: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until a dough forms. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until the dough is firm.
• Form the Cookies: Scoop out small portions of the dough and roll them into balls (about 1 inch in diameter). Roll each ball in powdered sugar until fully coated.
• Bake: Place the dough balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, spacing them about 2 inches apart. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until the cookies are set and the tops are cracked.
• Cool: Allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheet for a few minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

17. Chocolate Cappuccino Cheesecake

A rich and creamy cheesecake flavored with chocolate and coffee.

Blend instant coffee into the cheesecake mixture, bake, and enjoy this decadent dessert.

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons instant coffee
• 16 ounces (2 packages) cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 8 ounces semi-sweet chocolate, melted and slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 pre-made chocolate cookie crust (9-inch)

Instructions:

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
• Prepare the Coffee: Dissolve 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in 1 tablespoon of hot water. Set aside to cool.
• Blend the Cream Cheese and Sugar: In a large bowl, beat 16 ounces of softened cream cheese and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy.
• Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add 3 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
• Add the Chocolate and Coffee: Stir in the melted and slightly cooled 8 ounces of semi-sweet chocolate and the dissolved instant coffee until fully combined.
• Blend in the Sour Cream: Gently fold in 1 cup of sour cream until the mixture is smooth.
• Pour into Crust: Pour the cheesecake mixture into the pre-made chocolate cookie crust.
• Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the center is almost set but still slightly jiggly.
• Cool and Chill: Allow the cheesecake to cool at room temperature for 1 hour, then refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight before serving.

18. Frozen Mocha Marbled Loaf

A frozen dessert that layers coffee and chocolate mixtures.

Freeze until firm, then slice for a refreshing and indulgent treat.

Ingredients:

• 2 teaspoons instant coffee
• 8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

• Prepare the Coffee: Dissolve 2 teaspoons of instant coffee in 1 tablespoon of hot water. Set aside to cool.
• Melt the Chocolate: Place 8 ounces of chopped dark chocolate in a heatproof bowl and melt it over a double boiler or in the microwave, stirring until smooth. Allow to cool slightly.
• Whip the Cream: In a large bowl, whip 2 cups of heavy cream with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
• Divide the Whipped Cream: Divide the whipped cream into two equal parts. Gently fold the melted chocolate into one part and the dissolved coffee into the other.
• Layer the Mixtures: Line a loaf pan with plastic wrap, leaving enough overhang to cover the top of the loaf. Spoon alternating layers of the chocolate and coffee mixtures into the pan, creating a marbled effect by swirling the mixtures gently with a knife.
• Freeze: Cover the top of the loaf with the overhanging plastic wrap and freeze for at least 6 hours or until firm.
• Serve: Remove the frozen loaf from the pan using the plastic wrap. Slice and serve immediately.

Conclusion

Instant coffee is incredibly versatile, making it easy to create a wide range of delicious drinks and treats.

From lattes and iced coffees to decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone.

Try out these recipes at home and discover new favorites.

We’d love to hear about your experiences and any unique instant coffee recipes you have.

Share your thoughts in the comments!