A Simple Guide to Coffee Pairing
For some people, coffee is a trend. But for true coffee lovers, it is a way of life. As one of the most loved drinks in the world, coffee remains fascinating with different flavors, aroma, body and notes. Things get even more interesting if you bring foods into the mix, because when paired with coffee, the combination can be utterly amazing. Learn below our simple guide to coffee pairing.
Pairing By Coffee Characteristics
Most coffee experts will probably recommend you really get into knowing your coffee before pairing for the best experience. It can get complicated, but here’s how you can try to put the different characteristics to pair with the suitable foods :
| Quality | Body | Acidity | Pairings |
| Well-balanced, bright and slight tangy notes ( very refreshing) | Light – Medium | Medium- High |
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| Nutty/ berry flavors. Floral elements | Medium- Full | Medium |
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| Robust, earthy, flower-like or herbal notes | Full | Low |
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General Taste Pairings
If you are having trouble with technical characteristics, try our approach through general flavors below:
Sweet Taste
To balance the bitter coffee taste, many love to seek sweet pairings which also work well as tea-time snacks. Here are our recommendations:
- Chocolate bar, cake or cookies, especially brownies and chocolate chip cookies.
- Nut-flavored cakes.
- Dessert, such as tiramisu and cheesecake
- Ice-cream ala affogato.
- French pastries
- Donuts and waffles
Savory Taste
Coffee, especially the ones with low acidity and a robust body, is perfect for salty foods. To pair coffee well with foods, for example breakfast, keep it balanced and not too overpowering. Then try with savory bites such as:
- Bacon
- Strong cheese, such as Brie
- Pizza with meat or salty toppings
- Cured meats, such as sausages or salami
- Burger
Spicy Taste
The verdict is out for spicy foods and hot coffee, but iced coffee or cold brew can offer an interesting taste you never knew possible when paired with spicy foods.
The Perfect Match
If you still are not sure what to try with, check out our quick food pairings below to get you started:
- Anything chocolate! Coffee and chocolate are an amazing pairing, try to consider a chocolate treat the next time you’re enjoying your afternoon coffee, for example brownies with espresso.
- Breakfast bread, from wheat, whole wheat or pastries. Baked goods are just better with a cup of coffee.
- Cake and coffee is a classic pairing. In addition to chocolate, carrot cake, caramel or cinnamon, and also coffee cake are also recommended.
- Other ideas : Croissants, muffins, cookies and scones.
- Dairy, such as cheese, butter and cream.
