Tropic like it’s hot!
TikTok’s latest beverage craze — dubbed “cloud” coffee, no doubt inspired by Carly Simon — is frothing up feeds with a summery twist on your standard cup of joe.
The sweet elixir features coconut water instead of plain water, placing your morning brew on island time.
“Cloud” coffee can be easily made by pouring a shot of espresso over ice, adding coconut water and topping with some creamy non-dairy milk.
Fans are obsessed with this tropical take on iced coffee — but does it live up to the hype?
“This trend is basically an Americano but with coconut water swapped in for regular water, giving it a tropical, nutrient-boosted twist,” Mackenzie Burgess, a registered dietitian nutritionist and recipe developer for the Cheerful Choices blog, told The Post.
While they might be minor, there are some health perks.
“Mixing coffee with coconut water can make it a bit more hydrating thanks to coconut water’s electrolyte content,” she said.
“Each brand may vary, but one cup of Vita Coco coconut water contains 470 mg of potassium, which is 10% of the daily recommended intake, and 19 mg of magnesium, which is about 5% of the daily value for adults.”
Her general take?
“Overall, if you’re into the flavor, it’s a fun way to sneak a few extra nutrients into your morning drink,” she said.
Since many of us are not getting enough electrolytes, “cloud” coffee could be a good way to supplement while you sip.
“Coconut water adds electrolytes to help with hydration, along with antioxidants that support immune health and help the body fight oxidative stress,” Burgess explained.
“It’s also a lighter, more hydrating alternative to sugary creamers.”
And just when you thought the sky’s the limit for coffee, you can take your cloud even higher.
“When it comes to adding a plant-based milk on top, a splash of Almond Breeze’s Unsweetened Almondmilk Coconutmilk blend is a great pick — it adds creaminess without added sugar and pairs perfectly with the tropical feel of the coconut water coffee,” she said.
But not everyone’s taste buds will be up for this tropical trip.
“This flavor combo might not be everyone’s cup of coffee — some people find the mix of coconut water and espresso a bit unusual,” Burgess said.
“Also, some coconut waters contain higher amounts of added sugar, so it’s worth checking the label if you’re keeping an eye on your sugar intake.”
She recommends “choosing coconut water with 2 grams or less of added sugar — or ideally zero added sugars.”
We can hear the steel drum already.
Read the full article here
