While there are various methods for making coffee in the morning, each method has its own set of benefits. French press, automatic drip or cold brew all offer health advantages that include increased alertness and potent antioxidants; but with so many kombucha, matcha lattes and instant coffee options out there these days, is it possible to quickly make healthy cups? We set out to find an answer by testing different instant coffees until we discovered one with fresh flavor that was easiest to use while having minimal additives and additives.

Spray-drying instant coffee uses hot air to remove moisture content, while freeze-drying freezes brewed grounds and slowly thaws them, for a tastier and generally healthier beverage. We tested several brands using freeze-drying processes that offered medium roasts; all organic, fair trade, without added sugars or artificial flavors, without added sugars, as well as those without the carcinogen acrylamide that forms during high temperature roasting of coffee beans.

This instant coffee employs the freeze-drying process to produce granules that dissolve well in water and taste much tastier than those produced using ground beans sprayed onto paper filters. Not as abrasive than other instant coffee granules, and doesn’t leave an unwelcome clumpy mess at the bottom of your mug (though stirring may be required to fully disperse). Milk or sweeteners can be added prior to or post pouring hot water – instructions regarding these ratios will be printed directly on its packaging.

It is an excellent choice for anyone seeking instant coffee with exceptional flavor and minimal bitterness, yet still wanting the taste and experience of traditional coffee. Although more costly than other options we tested, its added quality will allow you to enjoy it anywhere and at any time without needing to plan ahead for preparation.

Laird Superfood’s Latte Mix provides all the convenience of instant coffee while adding adaptogens and coconut milk powder for enhanced support of adrenals and immune systems. Dairy-free and available in multiple delicious varieties, but we found mocha instant coffee particularly satisfying and filling. It smells more like chocolate than coffee while its creamy texture reminds us more of a chai tea latte than instant coffee! They also offer reduced sugar options or almond milk options in boxes of seven single serve sticks or one larger box containing 15 jars both 100% curbside recyclable options!