Coffee lovers are always chasing the perfect cup, whether through bean selection, grind size, or brewing method. But a new trend is stirring up the morning ritual: adding cocktail bitters to coffee. This bar-cart staple, typically reserved for Old Fashioneds and Manhattans, is now finding its way into mugs across the country. And the results are unexpectedly delightful.
Adding bitters to coffee enhances flavor complexity, balances sweetness, and introduces aromatic depth, making your morning brew surprisingly sophisticated. For those who prefer their coffee sweetened, bitters can reduce the need for added sugars or flavored syrups by contributing their own layered richness. This not only makes your coffee more interesting, but also a touch healthier.
What Are Bitters?
Bitters are concentrated herbal extracts made by infusing botanicals like roots, barks, spices, and citrus peels into alcohol. They’re intensely aromatic and just a few drops can transform a drink’s flavor profile. Popular varieties include:
- Angostura: spicy and herbal
- Peychaud’s: floral and slightly sweet
- Orange bitters: bright and citrusy
- Coffee bitters: specifically crafted to complement coffee’s natural notes
Why Add Bitters to Coffee?
Adding bitters to coffee isn’t about making it boozy, it’s about enhancing flavor. Here’s what a few dashes can do:
- Balance sweetness: Bitters counteract overly sweet creamers or syrups
- Deepen complexity: They highlight coffee’s earthy, nutty, or fruity undertones
- Reduce acidity: Bitters can mellow out sharp or sour brews
- Add aroma: The botanicals introduce a layered scent experience
Southern bartenders and baristas alike have embraced this hack. At Dawn Café in Santa Barbara, bitters are added to their Bonfire Cappuccino to elevate the espresso’s smoky character. In San Diego, Dark Horse Coffee Roasters crafts cocktail-inspired coffee drinks using aromatic bitters, while Cafeina Café offers a lavender latte infused with floral bitters for a botanical twist.
How to Use Bitters in Your Brew
Start small—just 1 to 3 drops in a cup of black coffee or espresso. Stir and taste. You can adjust based on your preferences:
- For cold brew, try orange or chocolate bitters
- For lattes, experiment with spiced or vanilla bitters
- For espresso, go bold with aromatic or coffee bitters
Best Bitters to Try
Here are a few favorites for coffee enhancement:
| Bitters Type | Flavor Profile | Best With |
|---|---|---|
| Angostura | Spicy, herbal | Espresso, drip coffee |
| Orange Bitters | Bright, citrusy | Cold brew, iced coffee |
| Chocolate Bitters | Rich, cocoa-forward | Mocha, dark roast |
| Coffee Bitters | Nutty, roasted | Any coffee style |
Final Thoughts
Adding bitters to coffee is a simple yet transformative trick. It’s a nod to the cocktail world, but it doesn’t require mixology skills. All it requires is just a curious palate. Ready to upgrade your brew? Try a few drops tomorrow morning and see where your taste buds take you