Olive Oil Coffee: What It Is and How to Make It at Home

What Is Olive Oil Coffee?

Olive oil coffee is exactly what it sounds like — a shot of espresso (or brewed coffee) finished with a spoonful of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil. The idea went mainstream when Starbucks launched its Oleato line in early 2023, inspired by a Mediterranean tradition of drinking olive oil each morning for health benefits.

The result is surprisingly good: the oil adds a silky, almost buttery body to the coffee without making it taste like salad dressing. Think of it as a richer, dairy-free alternative to adding cream.

Why People Are Adding Olive Oil to Coffee

Olive oil is loaded with monounsaturated fats and polyphenols — antioxidants linked to heart health and reduced inflammation. Combined with the antioxidants already in coffee, you get a drink that is both indulgent and functional.

Key benefits people report:

• Smoother energy — the fat slows caffeine absorption, reducing jitters.
• Satiety — a tablespoon of olive oil adds healthy calories that keep you full longer.
• Gut health — olive oil coats the stomach, which some find makes coffee easier to digest.
• Rich mouthfeel — it replaces cream for those avoiding dairy or watching saturated fat intake.

How to Make Olive Oil Coffee at Home

You don't need fancy equipment. Here's the basic method:

Ingredients

• 1 shot of espresso or 180 ml strong brewed coffee
• 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil (use a fruity, high-quality one)
• Optional: a pinch of sea salt or a drizzle of honey

Steps

1. Brew your coffee as usual — espresso, pour-over, Moka pot, whatever you prefer.
2. While the coffee is hot, add the olive oil directly to the cup.
3. Stir vigorously for 10–15 seconds, or use a milk frother to emulsify. This is the key step — you want the oil blended into the coffee, not floating on top.
4. Taste and adjust. A tiny pinch of salt rounds out bitterness. Honey adds sweetness without clashing with the oil.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh, high-quality EVOO. Cheap, old oil tastes rancid and will ruin the drink.
• Emulsify properly. A handheld frother works best. Without it, the oil separates and feels greasy.
• Start with less. Try half a tablespoon if a full one feels too heavy.
• Medium-dark roast works best. Very light, acidic roasts can clash with the olive flavor.

Variations to Try

• Iced Oleato: Brew espresso, let it cool slightly, emulsify with olive oil, pour over ice. Shake in a jar for better blending.
• Olive Oil Latte: Froth oat milk, pull a shot, add olive oil to the espresso before topping with the frothed milk.
• Citrus twist: Add a strip of orange zest — the citrus oils complement both coffee and olive oil beautifully.

Is It Actually Worth Trying?

If you enjoy experimenting with your coffee and you like rich, full-bodied drinks, yes. It won't replace your daily drip forever, but it's a satisfying change of pace — and the health angle is a bonus. Start simple, use good oil, and give your palate a couple of sips to adjust.

Takeaway: Olive oil coffee is more than a trend — it's a genuinely good drink when made right. Use quality EVOO, emulsify it into hot coffee, and you'll get a creamy, dairy-free cup with real health benefits.