Tahini Iced Coffee is a trend‑forward beverage that combines the rich, nutty taste of tahini with the chill of a cold brew or iced espresso. Blending elements like creamy tahini coffee, a tahini cold brew latte, or a vegan tahini iced latte, this drink offers a fresh, dairy‑free iced coffee recipe that appeals to those seeking healthy iced coffee sweetener ideas or a nutty‑flavored iced latte twist.
Originating from Middle Eastern iced coffee recipes and modern Mediterranean coffee flavor twist concepts, this version also doubles as a high protein coffee breakfast drink for your morning routine.
How to make it? Simply combine tahini, cold brew or espresso, your preferred plant milk (or dairy‑free alternative), sweetener of choice (like maple syrup for tahini maple syrup coffee) and ice, then stir or shake until smooth for a delicious sesame paste coffee drink ready to enjoy.
In This Recipe
How to Make Tahini Iced Coffee at Home
Before diving into the detailed tahini iced latte recipe, let’s explore why this unique drink is capturing so much attention in cafés and kitchens across the country. Unlike traditional dairy-based lattes or sugary cold brews, tahini iced coffee brings a creamy richness from sesame paste and a distinct nutty complexity that pairs beautifully with the boldness of espresso or cold brew.
This drink isn’t just a trend, it’s a movement. Coffee lovers are seeking out new ways to enjoy caffeine without compromising flavor or nutrition. A tahini cold brew latte checks all the boxes: it’s a vegan tahini iced latte, a dairy free iced coffee recipe, and a great option for those seeking healthy iced coffee sweetener ideas. If you’re someone who loves experimenting with a Mediterranean coffee flavor twist or needs a high protein coffee breakfast drink to power through your day, this nutty flavored iced latte will deliver.
Whether you’re exploring tahini coffee drink ideas out of curiosity or already love a creamy tahini coffee as your go-to afternoon indulgence, this next section breaks down exactly how to craft the perfect sesame paste coffee drink that’s as smooth and satisfying as it is Instagram-worthy.
PrintTahini Iced Coffee: A Creamy, Nutty Upgrade to Your Favorite Cold Brew
This creamy and nutty tahini iced coffee blends strong espresso or cold brew with rich sesame paste, maple syrup, and plant milk for a smooth, refreshing drink. Perfect as a high-protein coffee breakfast option or a dairy-free iced coffee recipe, it’s inspired by Middle Eastern flavors and fully vegan.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Category: Drinks
- Method: Shaken or Blended
- Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
1 cup cold brew coffee or 4 shots of espresso, chilled
3 tablespoons tahini (stirred well)
1½ to 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (adjust to taste)
1½ cups unsweetened almond milk (or any plant milk)
½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of sea salt
Ice cubes
Instructions
In a shaker or mason jar, combine chilled coffee or espresso with tahini, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt.
Shake vigorously until fully emulsified and creamy.
Add ice to glasses and pour the tahini coffee mixture over.
Top with almond milk and stir gently to combine.
Serve immediately with an optional dusting of cinnamon or toasted sesame seeds.
Notes
- Use well-stirred tahini to avoid separation.
- Adjust sweetness depending on your taste preference and coffee strength.
- For a frozen tahini coffee version, blend all ingredients with crushed ice.
- Great as a high protein coffee breakfast drink with a side of fruit or granola.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 glass (approx. 8 oz)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 65mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 9g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
The Flavor Profile of a Tahini Iced Latte
What does tahini taste like in iced coffee?
When you take that first sip of a tahini iced coffee, you’ll notice something distinctive: a rich, nutty backdrop from the sesame‑paste base, balanced by the brightness of your iced espresso or cold brew. The creamy tahini coffee element gives a velvety texture, while the nutty flavored iced latte aspect adds depth that you don’t usually get in a standard iced latte.
How the creamy tahini coffee base differs from a regular iced latte or iced espresso with tahini
Unlike a classic iced latte that relies mostly on milk and sweetener, this drink brings a bold twist: the tahini isn’t just an add‑on flavour, it’s a core ingredient. So whether you’re having iced espresso with tahini or going for a full tahini cold brew latte, you’re getting a drink that feels both familiar and uniquely sophisticated. The flavor lingers: you’ll taste the Mediterranean coffee flavor twist right after the first few sips.
Adding the right sweeteners and flavour twists
For a tahini iced latte recipe to shine, the sweetener matters. The balance of tahini maple syrup coffee is one of the best pairings, maple syrup brings warmth and subtle caramel notes that complement the sesame paste beautifully. And if you lean into the sesame paste coffee drink vibe, adding just a pinch of sea salt or a sprinkle of ground cardamom elevates the profile even more. For a vegan tahini iced latte, using a plant‑milk + agave or maple syrup combo keeps everything dairy‑free iced coffee recipe‑friendly.
Serving suggestions & garnish ideas
To elevate your nutty flavored iced latte, try layering your drink: pour the cold brew base, swirl in the tahini‑maple mixture, top with plant milk (or dairy) and let it settle. Garnish with sesame seeds, a dash of cinnamon or cardamom, or even a tiny drizzle of maple. The visuals will echo that trendy Middle Eastern iced coffee recipe style while delivering on taste.
When to Enjoy This Tahini Coffee Drink Idea
Tahini iced coffee isn’t just a seasonal sipper, it’s a versatile drink idea that fits into different parts of your day and life. Whether you’re drawn to it as a vegan tahini iced latte, or you’re curious about creamy tahini coffee for its rich texture and taste, this drink serves multiple roles: refreshment, nutrition, and global flavor fusion.
Morning: A High Protein Coffee Breakfast Drink
This sesame paste coffee drink can be a solid start to your day. Thanks to the protein and healthy fats in tahini, it’s more than just caffeine, it’s nourishment. Paired with oats or a fruit bowl, it becomes a satisfying high protein coffee breakfast drink.
Afternoon: A Cool, Dairy Free Iced Coffee Recipe Pick-Me-Up
As the day heats up, a tahini cold brew latte serves as the ideal dairy free iced coffee recipe. It refreshes, energizes, and delivers flavor with zero compromise, especially if you’re trying to avoid traditional creamers or sugary lattes.
Anytime: A Mediterranean Coffee Flavor Twist You’ll Crave
If you love experimenting with new coffee experiences, the Mediterranean coffee flavor twist of tahini iced coffee is a revelation. Earthy, creamy, and slightly savory, it transforms your daily cup into something special. That’s the beauty of this tahini coffee drink idea: it’s globally inspired, locally made, and fully customizable.
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Sweeteners, Plant Milks & Dietary Options for Tahini Iced Coffee
One of the best things about tahini iced coffee is how adaptable it is, whether you’re watching your sugar intake, following a plant-based diet, or looking for a balanced drink that suits your needs. From vegan tahini iced latte lovers to those avoiding dairy or added sugars, here’s how to customize every cup.
Which Sweetener Pairs Best with Tahini Iced Coffee?
The nutty depth of tahini shines when paired with the right sweetener. Maple syrup is the go-to, its mellow sweetness complements the sesame without overpowering it. For a classic tahini maple syrup coffee profile, use pure maple and adjust to taste. Other healthy iced coffee sweetener ideas include date syrup, coconut nectar, or agave, all of which are vegan and lower-glycemic options.
Choosing the Right Milk
To keep this a dairy free iced coffee recipe, go with unsweetened almond milk, oat milk, or soy milk. Each brings a different texture: oat milk is rich and naturally sweet, almond milk is light and slightly nutty, while soy offers creaminess with added protein. These all make a fantastic base for your vegan tahini iced latte, keeping it smooth, silky, and satisfying.
Is Tahini Iced Coffee Vegan Friendly?
Absolutely. When you combine tahini, cold brew or espresso, a plant milk, and a natural sweetener like maple or date syrup, you have a fully vegan tahini iced latte. No animal products, no dairy, no compromise on flavor.
Is Tahini Iced Coffee Healthier Than Regular Iced Lattes?
In many ways, yes. This sesame paste coffee drink is naturally high in healthy fats, plant protein, and contains no refined sugars or dairy. Compared to commercial iced lattes packed with creamers and syrups, a homemade creamy tahini coffee can be a lighter, more balanced choice, especially when customized to your dietary needs.
Origin of Tahini in Middle Eastern / Mediterranean Cuisine
The base of your nutty drink, tahini, is a paste made from ground sesame seeds, and it holds deep roots in the Eastern Mediterranean and Middle East. Tahini (also spelled tahina or tahin) is the very same sesame‑paste used in dishes like hummus and baba ghanoush.
Because the drink blends that heritage with the iced espresso or cold brew format, your “tahini iced coffee” becomes a beautiful fusion, a Middle Eastern iced coffee recipe in spirit, modernized for the iced latte lover.
Nutritional Profile: What Tahini Adds to Your Drink
When you pour a creamy tahini coffee or a tahini cold brew latte, you’re not just adding flavor, you’re adding nutrition. A single tablespoon (about 15 g) of tahini provides roughly 89 calories, 8 g of fat (mostly healthy unsaturated fats), 3 g carbs and 2.6 g protein.
Tahini is especially rich in copper, manganese, and other minerals like iron and calcium, thanks to its sesame seed origins.
The upshot? A high protein coffee breakfast drink can actually include a version of this, a tahini iced latte becomes more than just a treat.
The Healthy Benefits Behind the Trend
Because tahini is packed with healthy unsaturated fats and nutrient‑dense sesame seeds, it supports heart health and antioxidant activity. Studies show sesame seed products may help lower blood pressure and improve endothelial (blood‑vessel) function.
Within your dairy free iced coffee recipe, the tahini component adds body, richness, and nutrient value, contributing to the “healthy iced coffee sweetener ideas” movement, especially if you pair it with plant milk and natural sweeteners.
How It Compares to Traditional Iced Lattes
When you compare a nut‑based tahini iced latte to a traditional iced latte loaded with dairy creamers and sugary syrups, the difference is significant. A vegan tahini iced latte can be made with minimal refined sugar, no dairy, high‑quality fats and added protein, making it potentially healthier than regular iced lattes.
In essence, you’re embracing a nutty flavored iced latte that brings the richness of sesame paste coffee drink tradition and the coolness of iced espresso with tahini.
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Troubleshooting & Pro Tips for the Best Tahini Iced Coffee
Creating the perfect tahini iced latte recipe at home takes a little finesse. The goal is a creamy tahini coffee that’s smooth and balanced, not gritty, oily, or overpowering. Here’s how to fine-tune your drink, troubleshoot common mistakes, and personalize your sesame paste coffee drink to perfection.
Common Issues and How to Fix Them
- Separation: Tahini naturally separates, especially in cold liquids. To prevent this, either blend your drink or shake it vigorously in a sealed jar before serving. (FAQ: How do you prevent tahini from separating in iced coffee?)
- Gritty texture: Use high-quality, well-stirred tahini. Some store-bought versions are thicker or more fibrous. Look for smooth, runny tahini that’s easy to emulsify.
- Too sweet or too salty: Tahini has a slight bitterness that can be overpowered by sweeteners or accentuated by salt. Start with less and adjust.
- Overpowering sesame flavor: If you’re new to tahini in coffee, use 1 to 2 tablespoons per serving and scale up as you develop a taste for it.
Pro Tips to Upgrade Your Tahini Iced Latte
- Shake or blend the base with coffee and sweetener first, then add plant milk. This ensures the tahini is fully emulsified.
- Use ice made from coffee or almond milk for a stronger, non-diluted result.
- For an iced espresso with tahini, brew espresso and chill it rapidly over ice before mixing with tahini and maple.
- Stir in a pinch of ground cinnamon or cardamom for a Mediterranean coffee flavor twist.
Customizations to Explore
- Use oat milk for an ultra-creamy vegan tahini iced latte.
- Add cocoa powder and vanilla for a mocha-tahini spin.
- Make it a high protein coffee breakfast drink by adding a scoop of plant-based protein powder or hemp seeds.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
- You can prepare the tahini coffee base in advance (coffee, tahini, sweetener, vanilla, and salt) and store it sealed in the fridge for 2–3 days. Just shake well before using.
- Avoid adding plant milk until serving to prevent separation.
When & How to Serve Tahini Iced Coffee for Maximum Impact
Tahini iced coffee isn’t just a drink, it’s an experience. Whether you’re entertaining friends, enjoying a solo afternoon treat, or making your weekday mornings feel a bit more luxurious, this tahini coffee drink idea fits the moment. Here’s how to enjoy it best.
Best Occasions to Serve This Drink
- Brunch gatherings: Wow your guests with a Mediterranean coffee flavor twist that feels indulgent and health-conscious.
- Afternoon reset: Swap your standard iced coffee with a nutty flavored iced latte that provides both comfort and energy.
- Morning ritual: As a high protein coffee breakfast drink, it fits beautifully into a balanced start to your day.
Pairings That Complement the Flavor
A tahini cold brew latte pairs well with Mediterranean or Middle Eastern-inspired bites. Try it with:
- Date bars or tahini cookies
- A slice of nut-studded banana bread
- Pita toast with almond butter and sliced figs
- A small bowl of muesli or granola with fruit
How to Style & Present It
Presentation matters. Serve your creamy tahini coffee in a clear glass to showcase the color swirls. Add crushed ice, then pour over the layers: tahini base, milk, and a splash of espresso or cold brew. Top with:
- A drizzle of maple syrup
- A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or cinnamon
- A paper straw or metal stirrer for texture and contrast
This makes your tahini iced latte recipe not only taste great but also worthy of a share on Instagram or Pinterest.
Incorporating into Your Home Café Routine
Treat this sesame paste coffee drink as a staple, not a novelty. Whether you prefer a bold iced espresso with tahini or a chilled, mellow tahini cold brew latte, you’ll find that this beverage fits easily into your weekly rotation. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to reduce added sugars and dairy in your daily brew, making it a stand-out choice in your home café.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tahini Iced Coffee
How do you make frozen tahini coffee?
To make frozen tahini coffee, blend cold brew or espresso with tahini, maple syrup, plant milk, a pinch of salt, and plenty of ice. Use a high-speed blender for a smooth, creamy texture. You can also add a frozen banana or crushed ice for thickness.
Is Thai iced coffee healthy?
Thai iced coffee is typically made with sweetened condensed milk and sugar, making it quite sweet and higher in calories. While delicious, it’s not considered as health-conscious as alternatives like a vegan tahini iced latte, which uses natural sweeteners and plant-based milk.
Why is Thai iced coffee so sweet?
Traditional Thai iced coffee includes sweetened condensed milk and added sugar. It’s intentionally rich and sweet to balance the strong coffee flavor. In contrast, tahini iced coffee allows you to control the sweetness and uses more natural, wholesome ingredients.
What does tahini taste like in iced coffee?
Tahini adds a creamy, nutty, slightly earthy flavor to iced coffee. It pairs well with espresso or cold brew, offering a smooth texture and complex taste. When balanced with maple syrup or another sweetener, it becomes a uniquely satisfying nutty flavored iced latte.
Can you mix tahini directly into cold brew?
Yes, but you’ll need to mix it well. Shake or blend tahini with cold brew and sweetener to prevent clumping or separation. For a seamless tahini cold brew latte, stir tahini first, then add it to the coffee with vigorous mixing or blending.
Is tahini iced coffee healthier than regular iced lattes?
Often, yes. This dairy free iced coffee recipe uses plant-based milk, no cream, and natural sweeteners like maple syrup. It also adds nutrients like calcium, iron, and healthy fats from the sesame paste, making it a more balanced drink.
Which sweetener pairs best with tahini iced coffee?
Maple syrup is the most popular choice. It complements tahini’s rich, earthy flavor without overpowering it. Other healthy iced coffee sweetener ideas include date syrup, coconut sugar, or agave.
Is tahini iced coffee vegan friendly?
Yes, as long as you use plant milk and a vegan sweetener like maple or agave syrup. This makes it a completely vegan tahini iced latte suitable for plant-based diets.
Can I make tahini iced coffee without espresso?
Absolutely. Use cold brew concentrate or strong brewed coffee instead of espresso. The result will be slightly lighter but still delicious, especially in a tahini cold brew latte.
How do you prevent tahini from separating in iced coffee?
Always stir tahini well before using. Mix it with coffee and sweetener first, either by shaking in a sealed jar or blending. Then add milk and ice. This helps create a creamy tahini coffee without any oily separation.
Final Thoughts on Tahini Iced Coffee
Enjoy crafting your own creamy, nutty twist on iced coffee with this tahini iced coffee recipe. Whether you’re exploring a tahini cold brew latte, a vegan tahini iced latte, or simply looking for a dairy‑free iced coffee recipe with a Mediterranean coffee flavor twist, this drink delivers delightfully. Treat it as a high protein coffee breakfast drink, a refreshing midday pick‑me‑up, or a nutty flavored iced latte to impress your friends. For more delicious recipes and coffee drink ideas, follow Viva Lyze on Facebook and explore Viva Lyze on Pinterest for beautifully curated inspiration.