Struggling with bitter coffee or an upset stomach after your morning cup? Research shows dark roasts’ high acidity can cause digestive discomfort for many. If this hits home, Malaysian white coffee might be your savior. It’s smoother, less acidic, and packs a caffeine punch.
This guide for iboneans.com, inspired by posts from Arne Preuss and an unnamed brewing guide, dives into why white coffee is worth trying, backed by facts and sources.
What Is White Coffee?
White coffee isn’t just coffee with milk. It’s a unique brew, often tied to Malaysia’s Ipoh region, using lightly roasted beans for a creamy, less bitter taste.
Origins in Ipoh, Malaysia
White coffee originated in 1950s Ipoh, Perak, when Hainanese immigrants roasted the beans to produce a smoother taste. Ipoh’s kopitiams helped popularize it worldwide as a coffee icon.
How It’s Made
Beans are roasted at 325°F with palm oil margarine, keeping them pale and less caramelized than dark roasts at 450°F. Brewed with condensed milk, it’s sweet and frothy.
Taste Profile
Expect nutty, caramel notes with a hint of buttery – far less bitter than black coffee. It’s smooth and approachable.
History of White Coffee
White coffee’s roots blend tradition and innovation, from Yemen to Malaysia.
Yemeni Influence
Light roasting was started in Yemen, combined with spices such as cardamom. Hainanese in Malaysia introduced margarine for a twist.
Rise in Popularity
By the 1950s, Ipoh’s kopitiams refined it. Old Town’s instant mixes spread it globally, from Australia to the US.
Modern Variations
Today, you’ll find iced or milk-free versions. In the West, “white coffee” may mean ultra-light roasts without margarine.
How to Make White Coffee
Brewing white coffee at home is simple with these clear steps.
What You Need
- White coffee grounds (Old Town or Chek Hup)
- Condensed milk
- Hot water
- Optional: cloth filter sock
Easy Brewing Steps
- Boil water to 100°C.
- Add 1-2 tbsp grounds to a filter or cup.
- Pour hot water over grounds, let drip.
- Mix with 1-2 tbsp condensed milk, stir until frothy.
Fun Variations
- Iced: Brew strong, cool, add ice and milk.
- Latte: Use steamed milk.
- Spiced: Add a pinch of cardamom.
Health Benefits of White Coffee
White coffee’s light roasting offers perks over darker roasts.
Higher Caffeine
Lower roasting preserves up to 50% more caffeine. Research finds 2-4 cups a day associated with improved focus.
Less Acidic
It is easier on the stomach than dark roasts that are high-acid. There is less discomfort reported by users.
More Antioxidants
It retains chlorogenic acid, associated with reduced cancer risk and heart health.
White Coffee vs. Regular Coffee
How does it compare to black coffee?
Roasting Differences
Black coffee is roasted at 450°F, becoming dark and oily. For white coffee, a 325°F roast maintains the lightness of the beans.
Flavor Comparison
Black coffee is bitter and smoky; white coffee is nutty and sweet.
Nutritional Differences
Old Town white coffee contains 154 calories, 5.6g fat, and 32g carbs. Black coffee is almost calorie-free but more acidic.
Best White Coffee Brands in the World
Love the creamy, nutty flavor of white coffee? Rooted in Malaysia’s Ipoh tradition, these top brands are available globally for an easy, authentic blend. Based on 2025 sales and reviews, here are the best 3-in-1 picks, found on Amazon, Walmart, or Asian grocers.
Old Town White Coffee
Since 1958, Old Town’s 3-in-1 Classic combines Arabica and Robusta for a frothy, well-balanced sip.
- Per 38g: 178 calories, 5.6g fat, 28g carbs.
- Why Try It: Global bestseller, 4.5/5 on Amazon.
- Where to Buy: Amazon ($9.99 for 15 sachets), Walmart.
Chek Hup
Ipoh’s Chek Hup offers a smooth, less-sweet 3-in-1 with quality beans.
- Per 40g: 155 calories, 4.8g fat, 27g carbs.
- Why Try It: 4.3/5 on Walmart for creamy taste.
- Where to Buy: Amazon ($14 for 24 sachets).
Aik Cheong
Aik Cheong’s 1955 3-in-1 mix is bold and budget-friendly, great for iced brews.
- Per 30g: 142 calories, 4.2g fat, 24g carbs.
- Why Try It: 4.4/5 on Amazon.
- Where to Buy: Amazon ($7.50 for 12 sachets).
Ah Huat
Ah Huat’s 3-in-1 Gold Medal blend gives a bold yet smooth taste with low bitterness.
- Per 35g: 150 calories, 4.5g fat, 26g carbs.
- Why Try It: 4.2/5 on consumer forums for authentic Kopitiam flavor.
- Where to Buy: Amazon ($11 for 12 sachets), Lazada.
Brew a cup and share your top pick below!
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Fun Facts about White Coffee
Numbers highlight white coffee’s rise.
Market Growth
Valued at USD 2.26 billion in 2024, it’s set to reach USD 4.21 billion by 2032 (8.13% CAGR).
Consumption Trends
Globally, 2.25 billion coffee cups are consumed daily; 66% of US adults drink coffee daily in 2025. Moderate intake cuts heart disease risk by 15%.
Production Data
Malaysia produced 3,369 tonnes in 2018, focusing on Robusta and Liberica. Ipoh leads exports.
FAQs on White Coffee
Answers to ten common questions.
What Is White Coffee?
Lightly roasted beans with margarine, brewed with condensed milk.
More Caffeine?
Up to 50% more than dark roasts, but not by much.
Is white coffee less acidic?
Yes — it’s smoother and easier on the stomach because the beans are lightly roasted, which reduces acidity and bitterness.
Healthier?
Lower acidity, more antioxidants; 3-5 cups could reduce disease risk.
Skip Condensed Milk?
Yes, brew black or with regular milk.
Vegan-Friendly?
Use plant-based milk like oat or soy.
Taste vs. Espresso?
Nutty, less bitter than bold flavor of espresso.
Where to Buy?
Old Town, Chek Hup on Amazon or Asian stores.
Good for Diabetics?
Use unsweetened versions; moderate consumption is safe.
Cold Brew?
Makes a smooth, less acidic cold brew.
Teeth Staining?
Slightly less than dark roasts; dental care needed.
Conclusion
White coffee is a smoother, less acidic alternative to bitter dark roasts, with a market set to hit USD 4.2 billion by 2032. Its Malaysian roots and health benefits, such as greater antioxidants, make it a standout. Try Old Town at home and discover why it’s gaining fans. What’s your take? Share below!
Author Note:
Written by Muhammad Abrar, a coffee lover who enjoys testing simple home-brewed coffee recipes and sharing easy ways to enjoy great flavor without café prices.