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For many people, coffee is more than just a drink—it’s a lifestyle. But if you’re new to the game, the variety of coffee flavors, brew methods, and styles can be a little intimidating. Don’t worry, though, we’ve got you covered. Whether you want to kickstart your day or just figure out how to actually enjoy a cup, this beginner’s guide will walk you through how to drink coffee so you aren’t scared away by the first sip.
Whether you're wondering how to take coffee or looking for the healthiest way to drink coffee, this guide is designed for coffee novices. We'll cover how to pick the right beans and roasts, tips for developing your palate, and even how some people like their coffee around the world. By the end, you’ll feel confident enough to start your coffee journey.
If you’re a beginner wondering what's the best way to drink coffee, you’re not alone. Many first-timers start with sweeter, milder options like lattes or mochas to ease into the strong flavor of coffee. Lattes, for example, are made with espresso and steamed milk, creating a smooth and creamy texture that can be flavored with vanilla, caramel, or even chocolate syrup. Mochas offer a perfect balance between coffee and chocolate, which many people find to be the tastiest and most enjoyable way to start liking coffee.
So if you’re not ready for a strong, bitter taste right away, try a splash of milk, creamer, or flavored syrup to mellow things out. Over time, as you get used to the flavor, you can cut back on the extras and explore coffee in its more natural form. Try a little bit of everything—cappuccinos, cold brews, even iced lattes—and see what you vibe with.
When starting out, the world of coffee beans and roasts can feel like a lot. But don’t sweat it— we’re here to help! A good starting point is understanding the difference between Arabica and Robusta beans. Arabica beans are typically smoother and have a more subtle, sweet flavor, making them great go-to if you want to ease into things. Robusta beans are stronger, more bitter, and often used in instant coffee or espresso for an extra caffeine kick. If you’re just starting out, Arabica beans are your best bet for a softer, more welcoming intro to coffee.
Different coffee roasts and levels also play a huge part in the flavor of your coffee. Light roasts are known for their floral, fruity notes and higher caffeine content, making them appealing to those who want a milder taste. Dark roasts? They’re robust, smoky, and perfect for those wanting to dip their toes in black coffee territory. If you’re on the fence, medium roasts could be the perfect balance because they’re rich without being too intense.
When you’re figuring out which coffee type is for you, the beans you choose matter. Arabica, the most popular variety, is known for its smooth, slightly sweet flavor and lower bitterness, making it ideal for coffee beginners. Robusta beans are more bitter, offering a stronger taste with higher caffeine, often preferred by those looking for a more intense coffee experience.
Light and dark roasts offer different experiences for new coffee drinkers. Light roasts keep the natural flavors of the beans front and center for a lighter, fruitier taste. Pretty great if you’re not ready for something that packs a punch. Dark roasts? They bring intensity, with a bolder, smokier flavor, and are great for anyone who’s curious about black coffee. For beginners, starting with a light or medium roast can help ease the transition into drinking coffee and actually enjoy it.
Once you’ve got your beans, next is how to brew it. For coffee rookies, it’s all about keeping things simple and getting the flavor just right. Pour-over is a great way to start because it’s easy and gives you control over strength and flavor—basically, you’re the boss of your brew. French press? Another solid option. It’s no-fuss, gives you a rich, full-bodied cup, and makes you feel like a pro with just hot water and a press. And if you’re all about convenience, single-serve machines like Keurig are the plug-and-play of coffee. Minimal effort, maximum variety.
Experimenting with different brewing methods is the key to figuring out how you like your coffee. Whether you’re a fan of bold espresso shots or prefer smooth, easygoing drip coffee, there’s a method for every kind of morning mood. Plus, it’s fun to play around with different styles until you find that sweet spot (or strong, bitter spot… no judgment).
For beginners, simplicity is the name of the game. Coffee brewing methods like the pour-over or drip coffee makers let you control how strong or mild you want your coffee, which is great while you’re still figuring your taste preferences out. Pour-over really shines with light roasts, pulling out all those delicate flavors, while a good old drip coffee maker keeps things consistent and balanced. Both methods offer a great starting point for anyone drawing a blank if someone asks, “How do you take your coffee?”
The French press is the ultimate coffee hack for beginners. It’s super simple: coarsely ground coffee, hot water, a few minutes of waiting, and boom—you’ve got a rich, flavorful cup that makes you feel like a coffee connoisseur. Plus, the French press lets you experiment with brew time and coffee-to-water ratios, making it perfect for learning how to enjoy coffee at your own pace. If you want an affordable, full-bodied brew without any fancy gadgets, the French press is where it’s at.
Not in the mood for any extra steps? Single-serve coffee machines, like Keurig, are the absolute best. They make coffee as easy as pushing a button—literally. Just pop in a pod, hit brew, and you’ve got coffee in minutes. It’s the easiest way to explore different flavors without the commitment. Plus, there’s no mess, no cleanup, just coffee. Perfect for those hectic mornings when you need your caffeine fix fast.
If you’re new to coffee, it’s totally normal for the flavors to feel a bit intense at first. Developing a taste for coffee is all about starting slow and tweaking it to fit your taste buds. If the bitterness is throwing you off, no worries—start by adding milk, sugar, or even flavored creamers. Over time, you can gradually reduce the amount of milk and sugar as you begin to appreciate the natural flavors of coffee itself.
Another helpful tip for how to start liking coffee is to experiment with flavored coffee drinks. From vanilla lattes to hazelnut cappuccinos, these sweet, indulgent drinks make coffee feel more like a treat. That way, you can ease into it while you explore different flavor combos. Soon you’ll be able to recognize the subtle differences in flavor and texture, and you might even find yourself enjoying a straight-up black coffee.
One of the easiest ways to drink coffee as a beginner is with milk and sugar. Milk helps soften the strong flavor of coffee, while sugar adds sweetness to mask any bitterness. There’s no right or wrong way to balance the two—it all depends on your taste. How much of each? That’s totally up to you!
Many coffee drinkers start with milk and sugar but later transition to black coffee. If that feels impossible right now, here’s the secret: It’s a slow and steady process. Start by reducing the amount of milk and sugar over time, and your palate will begin to appreciate the bold flavors of black coffee. Drinking a lighter roast, which is less bitter than dark roasts, can also help ease this transition. The key is to experiment with different coffee types until you find one you enjoy without add-ins.
Flavored coffee drinks like mochas, vanilla lattes, and caramel macchiatos are kind of like training wheels into coffee drinking—they make the experience much more enjoyable right from the start. These drinks combine the rich taste of espresso with sweet, creamy flavors, making them a great way to explore how to start drinking coffee if you’re unsure where to begin. As you explore different ways to drink coffee, flavored drinks can introduce you to the nuances of coffee in a more approachable way. Over time, you may find yourself moving toward more traditional coffee beverages.
To enjoy coffee in the healthiest way and maximize coffee health benefits, try skipping milk or creamer, as they can reduce your body’s ability to absorb key nutrients like chlorogenic acid, a powerful antioxidant found in coffee with anti-inflammatory properties that may help fight diseases such as arthritis and cancer. If black coffee isn’t your preference, consider non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut creamer, which allow you to still enjoy the health benefits without compromising flavor.
Additionally, be mindful of sugary syrups and calorie-heavy add-ins that can sneak up on you. To boost coffee health benefits, opt for natural alternatives such as almond milk or a light drizzle of honey to sweeten your brew. For the best results, enjoy your coffee in moderation—one or two cups a day will help you savor its pure flavors while avoiding the jitters, dehydration, or sleepless nights.
Coffee is a popular drink across the globe. In Italy, espresso shots are taken quickly and often enjoyed while standing at a bar, while in Sweden, fika—a coffee break with pastries—turns coffee into a full-on cultural experience. In Turkey, coffee is brewed slowly with sugar and often served thick and strong, providing a completely different experience from your typical drip brew.
Learning how people around the world enjoy their coffee can open your eyes to new flavors and methods. Whether you prefer the rich, strong taste of a Turkish brew or the lighter, balanced flavor of a French café au lait, there’s no shortage of inspiration for learning how to like coffee. After all, how you take your coffee may differ, but the love for it is universal.
As you explore how to start drinking coffee and develop your palate, having the right tools makes all the difference. There’s nothing better than the Owala’s SmoothSip® Slider coffee mug. It’s completely leakproof (even when you turn it on its head), stays insulated for hours to keep drinks the perfect temperature, is effortless to sip from, BPA-free, and easy to hold so you can take it on the go. Basically, it’s perfect for everyone—from coffee beginners to aficionados. Whether you’re enjoying a hot cup of black coffee or a creamy latte, the Owala coffee mugs ensure that every sip is as enjoyable as the last.
So if you want a stylish, colorful, and just generally cool coffee mug as you start your coffee journey, look no further than Owala. Happy sipping!
