Yes, you can put honey in coffee. It’s a natural sweetener that adds a mild flavor and even contains antioxidants. Many people use it as a healthier alternative to sugar. Just remember—it’s best to add honey after your coffee cools slightly so that the nutrients are not destroyed.
I started making this myself when I wanted to cut back on sugar. At first, I didn’t know honey would work in coffee- but it surprised me. It mixes well, provides a light sweetness, and is better than refined sugar.
In this post, I will reveal everything I’ve discovered about honey in coffee—why you should give it a go, how to get the taste just right, the advantages and disadvantages, and a few easy recipes that really do work. You’ll be able to enjoy your coffee with honey perfectly in the end. Let’s start!
Why Try Honey in Coffee?
Honey in coffee is popular these days because it’s a natural way to sweeten your drink. Unlike sugar, honey has tiny bits of nutrients like vitamin B6 and potassium. It’s not a big health fix, but it’s better than sugar.
Here’s why it’s good:
- Tastes smooth, not sharp like sugar.
- Gives flavors like flowers or earth, depending on the honey.
- Feels easier on the stomach for some people.
Honey makes morning coffee feel light. It has stuff that can help with small health things. But you just take a small amount, so do not expect much
Can You Put Honey in Coffee?
Yes, you can put honey in coffee. It’s safe and tastes good if you do it right. I add it to my black coffee every day. Don’t use super hot coffee because heat can reduce honey’s good parts. Aim for 40-50°C (104-122°F)—warm, not boiling.
Things to watch:
- Honey is thick, so stir well or it stays at the bottom.
- Use 1 teaspoon per 8-oz cup to keep it balanced.
- Works for hot or cold coffee, but mixes better in hot.
Works for hot or cold coffee, but mixes better in hot. But warm the honey a bit for cold coffee.
Health Benefits of Coffee and Honey.
Coffee provides energy through caffeine. Honey can provide a little more. Both contain substances that fight cell damage. Honey also contains substances that can help with minor aches and pains.
Here’s what you might get:
- Blood Sugar: Honey increases blood sugar slower than sugar, which is better for some people.
- Digestion: Honey can calm your stomach, balancing coffee’s acidity.
- Immunity: Raw honey can fight germs a little.
- Energy: Honey’s sugars combined with caffeine provide sustained energy.
Since using honey, I feel less shaky after coffee. If you have diabetes or allergies, talk to a doctor first.
Here’s a quick comparison of honey vs sugar in coffee to help you decide:
| Factor | Honey | Sugar |
| Sweetness | Sweeter than sugar, so you use less (1 tsp honey = 1.5 tsp sugar taste). | Less sweet, needs more for same sweetness level. |
| Calories | 21 calories per tsp. | 16 calories per tsp. |
| Taste | Adds flower, fruit, or earth flavors based on type (e.g., clover, manuka). | Plain sweet taste, no extra flavor. |
| Nutrients | Tiny bits of vitamin B6, potassium, and antioxidants. | No nutrients, just calories. |
| Cost | Costs more, especially raw or manuka ($1-5 per oz). | Cheap, usually under $0.10 per oz. |
| Health Impact | A slower blood sugar rise may help the stomach. Not for kids under 1. | A slower blood sugar rise, may help stomach. Not for kids under 1. |
How to Add Honey to Coffee: Step-by-Step
Simple step to add honey in coffee
- Brew coffee your way—drip, French press, or espresso.
- Let it cool a bit to keep honey’s good parts.
- Add 1 tsp of honey to the cup.
- Add coffee and stir until mixed.
- Taste and add more honey or water if needed.
- Add milk or spices like cinnamon if you like.
Tip: Warm your spoon in hot water to stir easier. For cold coffee, mix honey in a little warm water first.
Best Types of Honey for Coffee
Not all honeys are the same. Here’s what I’ve tried:
- Raw Honey: Not processed, has nutrients, good for strong coffee.
- Clover Honey: Soft, cheap, works with most coffees.
- Acacia Honey: Light, sweet, good for light roasts.
- Manuka Honey: Good for health, but costs more.
- Buckwheat Honey: Dark, strong, matches dark roasts.
Local honey is fresh and helps bees. Don’t buy processed honey—it’s like sugar syrup.
Downsides of Honey in Coffee
Honey isn’t perfect. It has more calories than sugar—21 per tsp vs 16. If you drink a few cups like me, that adds up.
Other issues:
- High-quality honey, such as manuka, is expensive
- Some people are allergic to honey’s pollen.
- Wrong honey can cover your coffee’s taste.
- Not safe for kids under 1 due to germs.
Too much honey can make coffee taste like syrup. Use a little to avoid this.
4 Common Mistakes to Avoid
It’s easy to mess up with honey in coffee. Here are four mistakes I made:
- Too Much Honey: It makes coffee taste like syrup. I did this with manuka honey. Use 1 tsp and taste.
- Very Hot Coffee: Boiling coffee reduces honey’s good parts. I tried it once. Cool coffee to warm first.
- Not Stirring: Honey sinks if you don’t stir thoroughly. Stir extensively or heat the honey.
- Wrong Honey: Strong honey like buckwheat, can waste light coffee. Use soft honey like clover for light roasts.
Skip these, and your coffee will taste better.
Honey in Coffee Recipes to Try
Here are three easy recipes I make at home with stuff you likely have.
1. Classic Honey Coffee
Mix 1 tsp of honey into a cup of brewed coffee. Add milk if you like.
2. Spiced Honey Latte
Stir 1 tsp honey into espresso, add steamed milk, and a pinch of cinnamon
3. Iced Honey Coffee
Dissolve 1 tsp of honey in a bit of warm water, mix with cold brew, pour over ice, and add milk if you want.
FAQs About Honey in Coffee:
Can you put honey in coffee instead of sugar?
A: Yes, it’s a natural swap and adds flavor.
Does honey in coffee lose its health benefits?
A: Some benefits go away if coffee is too hot. Use warm coffee.
What’s the best honey for coffee in 2025?
A: Raw or acacia honey mixes well with most coffees.
Is honey better than sugar for coffee?
A: It raises blood sugar slower but has more calories.
Can I add honey to iced coffee?
A: Yes, mix it in warm water first for easier mixing.
Does honey help with coffee’s acidity?
A: It can calm the stomach a bit for some people.
How much honey should I use in coffee?
A: Start with 1 tsp per cup and adjust.
Can honey in coffee help with colds?
A: Raw honey’s germ-fighting stuff might help a little, but it’s not a cure.
Conclusion
So, can you put honey in coffee? Yes, and it’s worth trying if you want a natural sweetener. It adds flavor, some health benefits, and is easy to mix if you skip common mistakes. Pick a honey you like, use a small amount, and try the recipes. Got a favorite way to make it? Share in the comments! Keep trying to find what works for you.
About the Author: Muhammad Abrar. I’ve been making coffee at home for 5 years and like sharing what works.
Updated: October 2025