Underrated Coffee Pairings You Need to Try
As a coffee aficionado, I’ve discovered that pairing your daily brew with unexpected snacks—like cheese, bacon, or dark chocolate with sea salt—can elevate your coffee experience to new heights.
I’m a coffee aficionado—averaging 3-4 cups a day—and I’ve come to appreciate how much better my coffee experience gets when paired with the perfect snack. We’re all familiar with the classic combos of coffee and a croissant or coffee and chocolate, but there’s an entire world of underrated pairings that can truly elevate your daily cup.
These unexpected combinations not only complement your brew but make every sip a little more enjoyable. Ready to expand your coffee horizons? Let’s dive into some delicious and often-overlooked pairings you need to try.
1. Coffee and Cheese
While cheese and wine are often paired together, coffee is a surprisingly great match for cheese as well. The rich, bold flavors of coffee complement the creamy, tangy notes of cheeses like goat cheese or brie. Try a smooth medium roast with a slice of brie or a dark roast with a sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
2. Coffee and Popcorn
Skip the chips—popcorn is an unexpectedly perfect pairing with coffee. The salty, crunchy texture pairs wonderfully with the smoothness of your favorite brew, especially lighter roasts. Try it with a lightly salted or even caramelized version for a sweet and savory contrast that’s as satisfying as it is surprising.
3. Coffee and Bacon
Sweet and savory at its best, the crispy richness of bacon pairs harmoniously with the deep, earthy flavors of a dark roast. This pairing works especially well with a smoky coffee or a cold brew, which accentuates the bacon’s crispy goodness while balancing its saltiness.
4. Coffee and Fruit
Fruit might not be the first thing you think of when pairing coffee, but fresh fruits like berries, citrus, or even stone fruits like peaches can add a burst of flavor that complements the coffee’s natural acidity. Try a bright, fruity coffee like an Ethiopian Yirgacheffe with a bowl of fresh strawberries or an orange for a refreshing, energizing start to your day.
5. Coffee and Cake Donuts
While donuts and coffee are a classic combo, try switching it up with cake donuts instead of the typical fried variety. The dense, spongy texture of cake donuts pairs perfectly with a medium to dark roast coffee, creating a balance of flavors that’s both comforting and satisfying. Try it with a cinnamon-sugar cake donut for extra warmth.
6. Coffee and Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt
We all know that chocolate and coffee go together, but try pairing dark chocolate with a sprinkle of sea salt for a flavor explosion. The bitterness of the dark chocolate enhances the richness of the coffee, while the salt brings out new layers of flavor, creating a sophisticated twist on a beloved pairing.
Underrated Coffee Pairings You Need to Try
As a self-proclaimed coffee lover, I know that every great cup deserves an equally great snack. These underrated coffee pairings not only surprise the taste buds but add a whole new level of enjoyment to your daily routine. Whether it’s pairing coffee with cheese, bacon, or salted dark chocolate, there’s no shortage of new flavors to discover. So, next time you brew a fresh cup, treat yourself to something unexpected—you just might find your new favorite coffee pairing.
