Tahini Iced Coffee – Unique, Creamy, and Refreshingly Different

Tahini iced coffee might sound unusual, but it’s quickly becoming one of the most buzzed-about drinks in the wellness world—and for good reason. This creamy, nutty twist on your standard iced brew brings unexpected depth, a satisfying texture, and just the right balance of savory and sweet.

In this guide, we’ll explore the story behind tahini in coffee, its unique flavor profile, the Gen Z obsession with iced drinks, and how you can easily make it at home. Whether you’re into nutrient-rich lattes or just craving something new, this one’s got the flavor and flair to stand out.

Jack

Tahini Iced Coffee Recipe

No ratings yet

This creamy, nutty twist on classic iced coffee blends tahini with cold brew and milk for a balanced, refreshing sip. It’s smooth, rich, dairy-free, and fully customizable—perfect for hot summer days or clean-energy mornings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 glass

Course: Drinks

Cuisine: Fusion, middle eastern

Calories: 145

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 1 cup strong cold brew or chilled espresso
• 1 tbsp tahini (well-stirred)
• 1–2 tsp maple syrup or sweetener of choice
• 0.5 cup milk or non-dairy milk (oat, almond, or coconut)
• 1 cup ice cubes
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon or cardamom (optional)
• 1–2 drops vanilla extract (optional)
• 1 tsp cocoa powder (optional topping)

Equipment

• small mixing bowl or shaker
• whisk or blender
• measuring spoons
• glass

Method

 

1. In a small mixing bowl or shaker, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, and a splash of milk until smooth.
2. Add the cold coffee and remaining milk. Stir or shake vigorously to combine.
3. Pour over ice and serve. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.
4. Optional: Top with tahini drizzle, sesame seeds, or a dusting of cocoa for presentation.

Nutrition

Serving: 300gCalories: 145kcalCarbohydrates: 10gProtein: 4gFat: 11gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gSodium: 35mgPotassium: 160mgFiber: 2gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 50IUCalcium: 120mgIron: 1.2mg

Notes

Use a high-quality, smooth tahini to avoid bitterness.

For a frothy finish, shake or blend instead of stirring.

You can make a batch of the tahini-milk-syrup mix and refrigerate it for up to 3 days.

Customize with cinnamon, vanilla, or cardamom to elevate flavor depth.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!

Tahini iced coffee memories from a Texas summer

I still remember the first time I tried tahini iced coffee. It was one of those scorching summer afternoons just outside Austin—the kind where the heat wraps around you like a wet towel. I’d just wrapped up a long morning patching the backyard fence when I ducked into a local café, looking for something cold and strong. The barista, with a knowing grin, handed me a tall glass of what he called “tahini iced coffee.”

I paused. Tahini? Like the stuff in hummus? But one sip in, and I was hooked. The bold, bitter edge of cold brew mellowed out with this creamy, nutty depth that clung to the ice in the best way. It was unlike anything I’d had. No syrupy sweetness, no artificial cream—just pure, earthy flavor that took me straight back to the sesame candy my mom used to keep in her food truck, back in our San Antonio days. That afternoon, sweat-drenched and skeptical, this drink surprised me—and earned a permanent spot in my summer routine.

If you’ve ever enjoyed a chill, flavorful treat like my Strawberry Matcha Latte or a Chia Seed Smoothie, you’ll feel right at home with this twist.

Why tahini and coffee just work

Tahini and coffee may sound like odd partners, but their flavors harmonize better than you’d expect. Tahini’s natural oils and subtle bitterness blend perfectly with the sharpness of cold brew, creating a smoother, creamier sip. The fats from the sesame paste round out coffee’s acidity, while the nutty notes linger on the finish—kind of like a latte with depth.

And if you’re cutting back on dairy or sugar, tahini iced coffee fits the bill. It’s the kind of drink that feels rich without being heavy, indulgent without regret!

The Flavor Profile and Health Angle of Tahini Iced Coffee

Creamy, nutty, bold: flavor breakdown of tahini iced coffee

Tahini iced coffee isn’t just a novelty—it’s a bold, balanced drink with real culinary appeal. At its heart, it’s about contrast. You’ve got the deep roast of your coffee paired with tahini’s earthy richness, then layered with a bit of sweetness and a splash of milk. It’s creamy without cream, indulgent without overload.

What makes tahini iced coffee stand out?

• Body & texture: Tahini adds a silkiness that rivals heavy cream, but without the dairy. It’s smooth, slightly thick, and coats the coffee like velvet.
• Flavor balance: The natural bitterness of sesame paste complements cold brew’s sharp edge, while a hint of sweetness rounds it out beautifully.
• Customizability: Whether you use maple syrup, honey, or date syrup, tahini plays well with just about any flavor you throw at it.

Think of it like the cool cousin to a peanut butter latte—less sweet, more sophisticated, and great for warm days when you want something nourishing but refreshing. If you’re already into layered drinks like the Strawberry Matcha Latte, this one’s in your wheelhouse.

Is it healthy or a calorie bomb? Let’s talk nutrition

Here’s the good news: tahini iced coffee can be a nutrient-dense drink, depending on how you build it. Tahini is rich in healthy fats, iron, calcium, and plant-based protein. When combined with black coffee or cold brew, it creates a surprisingly balanced beverage.

Of course, like any trendy drink, it’s easy to overdo it with sweeteners. But when made thoughtfully, it offers a creamy energy boost without the crash.

Let’s break it down:

• Calories: A tablespoon of tahini has about 90–100 calories. Use one and skip the sugary syrups, and you’ve got a moderate treat.
• Macros: Expect 8g fat, 3g protein, 2g carbs per tablespoon—mostly unsaturated fats.
• Sugar: Totally optional. You control how much and what kind.

To keep it light and energizing:

• Use unsweetened almond or oat milk for creaminess.
• Opt for natural sweeteners like date syrup or stevia.
• Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for flavor without calories.

You’ll find the same balance-minded approach in drinks like the Pink Salt Morning Detox, where simple ingredients come together for major impact.

Tahini iced coffee checks all the boxes for those looking to stay refreshed while keeping their nutrition on track. It’s the kind of summer drink that fits into clean eating without sacrificing flavor—perfect for anyone chasing both energy and comfort.

How Gen Z Made Iced Coffee a Lifestyle (And Where Tahini Fits In)

TikTok, cafes, and the obsession with iced everything

Gen Z didn’t just adopt iced coffee—they branded it. Scroll through TikTok or Instagram, and you’ll see iced drinks everywhere, from mason jar cold brews to whipped Dalgona foam. It’s more than just caffeine—it’s identity, mood, and aesthetic all rolled into one glass.

So where does tahini iced coffee fit in?

• It’s different: Gen Z loves standing out, and tahini’s unexpected nuttiness makes this drink feel unique and elevated.
• It’s photo-friendly: With its natural cream swirl and golden hue, this drink looks as good as it tastes—perfect for social sharing.
• It’s wellness-coded: Like the Lemon Ginger Ferment, tahini iced coffee taps into the clean, wholesome, feel-good energy many younger drinkers are after.

Younger audiences are drawn to drinks that blend indulgence with intention. Tahini brings healthy fats, plant-based appeal, and cultural flair to a category often dominated by sugary syrups and artificial creamers. It feels worldly, nourishing, and—let’s be honest—a little cooler than almond milk.

As cafes and creators push boundaries with ingredients like lavender, beetroot, or matcha (seen in our Strawberry Matcha Latte), tahini is a natural next wave in the evolution of the iced coffee ritual.

DIY vs. buying it: what Gen Z prefers and why

Despite the flood of specialty cafés, more and more iced coffee lovers—especially younger ones—are going DIY. Why? It’s about control, creativity, and saving money.

Here’s why tahini iced coffee is perfect for making at home:

• Budget-friendly: A jar of tahini lasts forever and beats the price of café “nut butter” lattes.
• Customizable: From oat milk to date syrup, you can tailor every element.
• Fun to experiment: Add-ins like cinnamon, cocoa, or cardamom give you total flavor control.

It’s the same reason Gen Z is blending up things like chia smoothies or making their own detox drinks at home. When you create it yourself, you’re not just sipping—you’re curating.

And there’s something empowering about mastering a drink that feels gourmet but only takes a minute or two. Whether you’re pouring it over ice or shaking it with cold brew, the process is fun, fast, and deeply satisfying.

For anyone wanting to try other creative drink builds, our Pink Salt Detox and Chia Seed Smoothie recipes offer that same balance of wellness and flavor-forward thinking.

How to Make Tahini Iced Coffee at Home

Simple ingredients, killer results

Making tahini iced coffee at home is easier than you think—and probably quicker than a trip to your favorite café. All you need are a few pantry staples and about five minutes. Here’s what goes into it:

Basic Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong cold brew or chilled espresso
• 1 tablespoon tahini (well-stirred)
• 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or sweetener of choice
• ½ cup milk or non-dairy alternative (oat, almond, or coconut work well)
• Ice
• Optional: cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla extract

Tips for the best results:

• Use high-quality tahini: The smoother the tahini, the better it blends. Avoid bitter or gritty brands.
• Chill your coffee ahead: Whether you brew cold or cool your espresso, it should be cold before mixing.
• Shake or blend: Whisking is fine, but shaking in a mason jar or blending gives you a frothy finish.

Want a similar wellness-style drink? Check out the Lemon Ginger Ferment for another kitchen-friendly sipper with gut-boosting flair.

Step-by-step method + flavor customizations

How to make it:

1. In a small mixing bowl or shaker, whisk together the tahini, maple syrup, and a splash of milk until smooth.
2. Add the cold coffee and remaining milk. Stir or shake vigorously to combine.
3. Pour over ice and serve. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed.

Want to make it a little extra? Try these upgrades:

• Add-ins for flavor depth:
  • ¼ tsp cinnamon or cardamom for a spiced twist
  • 1–2 drops of vanilla extract for warmth
  • A dash of cocoa powder for mocha vibes
• Toppings (optional):
  • A drizzle of tahini on top
  • Sprinkle of sesame seeds for crunch
  • Frothy milk layer for that café look

Pair it with something indulgent like a Vegan Cheesecake to round out a cozy afternoon or use it as a satisfying alternative to your sugary frappes.

Make-ahead tip:
You can batch the tahini-milk-syrup mix and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just shake and pour over fresh coffee when ready.

This recipe brings all the coffee shop comfort—without the price tag or long lines. And if you love building flavor-rich drinks at home, don’t miss our Strawberry Matcha Latte for another iced creation that hits all the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion: Why Tahini Iced Coffee Deserves a Spot in Your Summer Routine

If you’ve been craving something different in your coffee lineup, tahini iced coffee delivers. It’s not just trendy—it’s satisfying, rich, and surprisingly versatile. The nutty depth of tahini turns regular cold brew into something indulgent, while its healthy fats and creamy texture make it feel luxurious without relying on dairy or heavy sweeteners.

Whether you’re into bold flavors, looking for non-dairy options, or just love experimenting with what you drink, this blend is worth trying. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and full of character. Once you taste that first smooth, sesame-kissed sip, you’ll understand why it’s catching on.

Pair it with your favorite summer breakfast or sip it as a mid-afternoon cool down—either way, it fits right in. Like our other comfort-forward drinks such as the Strawberry Matcha Latte or Lemon Ginger Ferment, this recipe brings big flavor with minimal effort.

This summer, skip the ordinary and stir up something bold—your glass (and taste buds) will thank you.

Want more comfort-forward recipes like this delivered daily?
Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest where we share quick tips, new recipes, and seasonal favorites every day.