Butter or Tahini? The Creamy Coffee Upgrade That’s Changing Mornings for Wellness Lovers

Jun 18
3 min read

Let’s talk morning rituals.

For many of us, that first cup of coffee is more than a caffeine hit—it’s a moment of grounding, a soft start before the world starts asking for our attention. But what if you could make that cup even more nourishing, satisfying, and supportive of your wellness goals—without losing taste?

Lately, I’ve been experimenting with blending my coffee with something creamy and healthy. At first, I went the classic “butter coffee” route. Then a friend casually mentioned trying tahini in her coffee—and my mind (and morning routine) got an upgrade.

So what’s the difference between these two trendy coffee boosters? And which one truly supports a holistic lifestyle rooted in nourishment, balance, and real flavor?

Let’s break it down:

🧈 The Case for Butter Coffee (aka Bulletproof-style)

Butter coffee is rich, frothy, and beloved by the keto crowd. When blended properly, it gives coffee a latte-like texture, without milk or sugar.

It’s usually made with:

Brewed coffee
Unsalted grass-fed butter
Optional: MCT oil or coconut oil

Why it works:

It slows digestion for steady energy.
It’s great for intermittent fasting or low-carb mornings.
It may help with mental clarity (especially when MCT oil is used).

But here’s the catch: butter coffee is pure fat. While fat isn’t the enemy, it’s also not the full picture. There’s little to no fiber, protein, or micronutrients. If you’re looking for whole-body nourishment—not just a brain buzz—it might not check every box.

🌿 The Case for Tahini Coffee (My New Obsession)

Tahini—a silky paste made from ground sesame seeds—might sound like an unusual match for coffee, but trust me: it’s an elevated experience.

Blend it with coffee and a dash of cinnamon or cardamom and you get this warm, nutty, creamy elixir that tastes indulgent… yet clean.

Why I love it:

Tahini is rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, and plant-based protein.
It has anti-inflammatory properties and supports hormone health.
It blends beautifully and adds fiber, minerals, and real substance to your drink.
It’s dairy-free and ideal for a plant-powered lifestyle.

And let’s not forget—it tastes incredible. Think earthy, smooth, and just exotic enough to feel like a treat.

🌱 Which One Wins?

In the world of holistic health, there’s room for both. If you’re fasting, on a ketogenic diet, or need a no-carb fuel source, butter coffee has its place. But if you’re looking to nourish your body from a place of balance—with minerals, protein, flavor, and fiber—tahini takes the cup.

It aligns with a lifestyle that’s:

Plant-powered
Mineral-rich
Hormone-supportive
Rooted in sustainability
And above all, delicious

Because in this holistic life we’re building, taste should never be sacrificed in the name of health.

✨ Try This: Tahini-Spiced Coffee

Ingredients:

1 cup brewed coffee
1 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp hemp hearts (omega)
1/2 tsp cinnamon or cardamom
Optional: 1-2 dates, honey or maple syrup
Blend until creamy

Sip slowly. Feel the difference.

Interested in the background of this trendy coffee? Read on...

Tahini coffee is essentially regular coffee—hot or iced—blended with tahini (sesame seed paste), optionally sweetened with honey or dates, and sometimes finished with a sprinkle of sea salt or cinnamon. It creates a rich, velvety drink that enhances the coffee's body and flavor complexity.

Where It Came From

Tahini hails from Middle Eastern and Eastern Mediterranean cuisines, where sesame paste has been used for thousands of years. The coffee variation likely emerged as fans of Mediterranean flavors began experimenting on social media and in cafes. Mentions of tahini coffee have soared—126% year-over-year on social platforms, with recipes up by 74%—and searches for “tahini latte” jumped nearly 900%, especially in cafés like Maman in NYC.

Why It's Good for You

Healthy fats & plant protein: Adds 6–7 g of protein per cup, plus monounsaturated fats that support heart health and satiety
Nutrient boost: Rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, B vitamins, and antioxidants (like lignans)
Balanced flavor: The tahini’s slight saltiness complements coffee’s bitterness and pairs beautifully with natural sweeteners like honey
Vegan and dairy-free: A creamy coffee option for those avoiding dairy