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    Home » Recipes » Drinks » Herbal Coffee (caffeine free)

    Herbal Coffee (caffeine free)

    by: Anya·posted: May 17, 2022·updated: Aug 2, 2022·26 CommentsThis post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe
    3 ingredient Herbal Coffee

    This Herbal Coffee is a decadent and delicious coffee substitute that has many added health benefits. It's completely caffeine-free and can be enjoyed any time of day.

    herbal coffee with milk pour

    This Herbal Coffee is a great alternative to regular caffeinated beverage and has amazing nutritional benefits. It can be enjoyed black for a very bold taste or add cream and your favorite additions for a latte or butter coffee vibe.

    What is Herbal Coffee?

    Herbal coffee is a blend of herbs that has a similar texture, flavor and richness as traditional coffee. It's typically caffeine free and has several health benefits.

    It's a great alternative to those wanting to cut back on caffeine or ditch it all together. Depending on the ingredients of the herbal coffee, it may reduce inflammation, decrease blood sugar and improve digestive health.

    Though specific ingredients and amounts vary from recipe to recipe, they generally have the same key players.

    Healthy Substitute for Coffee

    If you wanted to ditch coffee, this herbal substitute is a great way to do that. Much like coffee, it is rich and bold thanks to the roasted chicory and dandelion roots but can be made entirely caffeine free.

    Even though coffee may boast it's own nutritional benefits, it's always a good idea to switch to herbal coffee for a short while even if there's no caffeine sensitivity.

    The ingredients in herbal coffee blend are nourishing and detoxifying giving your liver a break from coffee.

    Helpful Tip: Herbal coffee is a great caffeine-free alternative and a healthy substitute for coffee. 
    Herbal Latte in mug with mix in background

    What are ingredients in Herbal Coffee blend?

    Herbal coffee starts with an herbal coffee blend. A 4-ingredient concoction that consists of chicory root, dandelion root, dandelion leaves and Yerba Mate.

    Chicory Root

    Chicory is a relative of the dandelion plant. It's leaves are popular in salads and the roots are great in coffee substitutions.

    In addition to being a great source of vitamins and minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and potassium, chicory root also contains inulin. Inulin is a soluble fiber that feeds digestive flora to the intestines, making chicory root a powerful probiotic. (source)

    We love this organic roasted chicory root granules to add to herbal coffee.

    Dandelion Root

    Though technically considered a weed, dandelion actually has a long history of therapeutic use in countries including Korea and Mexico. Be sure to use roasted dandelion root.

    Dandelion roots contain chemicals whose biological properties are being studied for their roles in human health. Specifically, evidence suggests that dandelion contains antioxidants and compounds that may support body's natural immune response. (source)

    When looking for dandelion root, be sure to find one that is roasted and loose (not in tea bags). This organic dandelion root is a great option.

    Dandelion Leaves

    Often found in herbal medicine, dandelion leaves are a rich source of beta-carotene which then converts into vitamin A. Flowering plant and leaves are rich in vitamin C, fiber, potassium, iron, calcium, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus.

    Dandelion leaves for consumption are best organic and sifted. My favorite is by Frontier Co-Op.

    Yerba Mate

    These are the leaves and stems of the mate plant and like most teas, are rich in vitamins and minerals. It has an herbal, grassy taste that resembles certain types of green tea.

    There is anecdotal evidence suggesting Yerba Mate may contain caffeine, though in much smaller quantities than the regular coffee. (source)

    This ingredient is optional in this herbal coffee substitute so feel free to omit for a guaranteed caffeine-free experience. When selecting Yerba Mate, make sure you're looking for loose leaf and not in tea bags. This is a great organic Yerba Mate option.

    Roasted roots and herbs in a glass jar

    Herbal Butter Coffee Ingredients

    If you remember a few years ago the concept of "butter coffee" was all the rage and super trendy on social media channels.

    But the idea of butter coffee isn't really new. Since forever, we've been adding full-fat cream to our coffee and many cultures add cream to teas.

    It's not until recently, that we redefined what a "coffee creamer" should be and stripped it of it's health benefits in fat and replaced it with stabilizers and other cheap fillers.

    But now we're bringing back and calling it butter coffee. It's essentially coffee that is full of healthy fats and often has added collagen. In short, it's coffee on steroids that will keep your belly happy and blood sugars steady thanks to fat and protein in collagen.

    Let's look at the ingredients that go into a butter coffee, in addition to the herbal coffee blend.

    Butter

    Butter adds essential nutrients your body needs to thrive. It keeps you fuller longer, reduces jitters and gives more sustained energy flow.

    When looking for butter, make sure you get European butter as it has more fat solids and has a rich yellow hue.

    Additionally, you may add coconut oil or MCT oil for further benefits.

    Helpful Tip: Adding fat to herbal coffee will improve absorption of nutrients in the roots and herbs and keep the blood sugar stable. 

    Collagen

    I always like to add collagen to warm drinks because it blends so effortlessly. Collagen peptides are rich in protein and amino acids but if you don't have that on hand, just omit it.

    We love Perfect Supplements brand as they are exclusively sourced from grass-fed cows and are the highest quality on the market. They feel very strongly about third-party testing and with recent discovery of lead in a big-brand collagen, I feel very confident using Perfect Supplements.

    If you, like me, appreciate a quality collagen product, be sure to stock up on their hydrolyzed collagen and use the code PREPARE10 for an additional 10% off on their already great prices.

    Milk or Cream

    A "latte" isn't complete without the creaminess that comes from milk. If dairy-free, any nut milk will do as will coconut milk. My favorite is raw milk but that's a personal preference.

    Half and half as well as heavy cream will work also but just remember it will give a more richer texture.

    Sweeteners

    If you prefer a sweet coffee drink, be sure to check out this post on healthy alternative natural sweeteners.

    Some of the favorite ways to sweeten this drink is with maple sugar, maple syrup or coconut sugar. You may also use monkfruit to make this low carb.

    Herbal coffee in a mug with herbal coffee blend in jar in background

    Frequently Asked Questions & Tips

    Is this a healthy substitute for coffee?

    If you can't tolerate coffee, this may be a good substitute for coffee. If sensitive to caffeine, make sure you skip the Yerba Mate as there are some studies suggest that it may have caffeine.

    How can I make seasonal herbal coffee?

    You may add other flavor enhancers such as cinnamon, nutmeg or even pumpkin spice. If you want specific instructions on how to make seasonal herbal coffee, be sure to check out this Easy 2-minute Keto Pumpkin Spice Latte.

    How long does herbal coffee last?

    The herbal coffee blend can last a long time - up to 4-6 months if stored properly in an airtight container away from direct sunlight. When blended with cream, butter, and sugar, the herbal coffee has a much shorter span and is best consumed right away.

    Make-Ahead Tips for Herbal Coffee

    The best suggestion to make effortless herbal coffee is to have the herbal blend ready to go in a jar.

    Even though the blend consists of only 4 ingredients but because it's non-perishable, you can easily combine those roots and herbs together in large batches and keep them stored in an airtight container.

    This will make the process of making herbal coffee a lot smoother and quicker.

    herbal coffee blend in background with a mug with latte

    How to make Herbal Coffee

    The complete printable recipe is below in the recipe card for your convenience.

    This homemade herbal coffee has : chicory root, dandelion root, dandelion leaves, and Yerba Mate (if using), butter, milk or cream,collagen, and sweetener.

    The best way to enjoy a warm cup of herbal coffee is to have the coffee blend ready ahead of time.

    Step 1. Combine all ingredients for the herbal coffee blend: chicory root, dandelion root, dandelion leaf, and Yerba Mate, if using.

    Toss well and store in an airtight container away from direct sun.

    Step 2. Steep a few tablespoons of the herbal coffee blend in a French press coffee maker similar to this stainless steel option or in a classic glass look like this one. If you don't have a French press, you can use a quart mason jar instead and then just run the herbal coffee through a sieve.

    For a single serving, add a tablespoon of the blend to a French Press or and pour boiling water over it. Set aside to steep for 5 minutes. If using coffee maker, use as you normally would with coffee.

    Step 3: Pour into a mug with the rest of the desired ingredients like butter, collagen, cream or milk, and a sweetener if so desired. Using a milk frother will froth the milk and will blend everything well. You may also use a hand whisk.

    Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired and enjoy warm.

    milk poured in a cup of bold coffee

    Helpful Tools & Links

    Below are some affiliate links that may be helpful to you as you make this recipe. Some ingredients can be bought cheaper at your local grocery store but sometimes it helps to have a link so you know what you're looking for.

    • Herbs for the coffee blend: chicory root, dandelion root, dandelion leaves, Yerba Mate
    • Other additions for the herbal coffee latte: grass-fed collagen, MCT oil, coconut oil
    • French Press - This stainless steel doesn't have any plastic parts making it the safest French press with hot water.
    • Handheld Frother - To create that foamy, rich texture. Buy one with removable whisk for easy washing.
    • Glass Coffee Container - Store your Herbal Coffee blend in an airtight container. This one looks neat and comes with a measuring spoon.

    Ways to enjoy herbal coffee

    Of course this drink is good on it's own as an afternoon treat because it has the protein to compliment the fats. But if you wanted to pair it with something else, consider these options:

    • Easy Coconut Flour Banana Muffins
    • Healthy Chocolate Muffins
    • Gluten-Free French Crepes
    • Flourless Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bars
    Did you make this? Please leave a ⭐ rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comments. Thank you!💚

    Printable Recipe

    herbal coffee with milk pour

    Herbal Coffee (caffeine-free)

    Anya @ Prepare & Nourish
    This decadent and delicious coffee substitute has many added health benefits. It's completely caffeine-free and can be enjoyed any time of day.
    4.92 from 12 votes
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe Save RecipeSaved!
    Prep Time 10 minutes mins
    Cook Time 10 minutes mins
    Total Time 20 minutes mins
    Course Drinks
    Cuisine American
    Servings 2 servings
    Calories 82 kcal

    Ingredients
      

    Herbal Coffee Blend

    • ½ cup chicory root
    • ¼ cup roasted dandelion root
    • ¼ cup dandelion leaves
    • ¼ cup Yerba Mate (optional)

    To make "Latte"

    • 1 tablespoon herbal coffee blend
    • 1 cup boiling water
    • 2 teaspoons butter, coconut oil, MCT oil
    • ¼ cup milk or cream of choice
    • 2 tablespoons grass-fed collagen
    • 1 teaspoon sweetener of choice (optional)
    Prevent your screen from going dark

    Instructions
     

    Herbal Coffee Blend

    • Combine chicory root, dandelion root, dandelion leaves, and Yerba Mate (if using). Store in a glass jar.
      herbal coffee blend in a large jar with a spoon

    Herbal Coffee Latte

    • For single serving, brew 1 tablespoon of herbal coffee blend in a French press. Steep for 5 minutes. Pour into mug.
      pouring coffee into a mug
    • Add butte, milk or cream, collagen, and sweetener and whisk vigorously to combine everything well. Enjoy immediately.
      herbal coffee mix and mug of coffee

    Notes

    Note: Herbal coffee blend is not calculated in the nutrition facts.
    Herbal coffee blend can be stored in an airtight container away from direct sunlight for up to 6 months.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 82kcal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 7g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Trans Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 72mg | Potassium: 47mg | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 174IU | Calcium: 42mg
    Nutrition Information
    The information shown is an estimate provided for your convenience by an online calculator. It should not be considered as a substitute for a professional nutritionist's advice. See our complete Nutritional Information Disclaimer.
    Keyword alternative to coffee, coffee substitute, herbal coffee
    ©Prepare and Nourish • Content and photographs are copyright protected. Sharing of this recipe is encouraged and appreciated but please do NOT screenshot or copy/paste complete recipes to websites or social media.
    DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?Leave a comment below and share a photo on Instagram. Mention @prepareandnourish and be sure to tag #prepareandnourish!

    This post was originally published January 2016 but has since been updated to include helpful information.

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    About Anya

    Sharing wholesome recipes using seasonal ingredients and simplified methods since 2014. My hope is you'll feel right at home in this online kitchen, where you'll find real food recipes for real families.

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      Recipe Rating




    1. Bethany @ Athletic Avocado says

      January 15, 2016 at 5:14 am

      I love herbal coffee! I need to try this recipe next time I make it!

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 15, 2016 at 9:24 am

        Thanks Bethany. Hope you enjoy it!

        Reply
    2. Marla says

      January 16, 2016 at 8:10 am

      Hi Anya,
      This sounds like such a tasty way to do a good cleanse which we all should be doing regularly living in this toxic world.

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 16, 2016 at 8:37 am

        Thanks Marla - anything we can do to help heal and nourish is always helpful.

        Reply
    3. Miz Helen says

      January 18, 2016 at 1:31 pm

      This would be a great coffee for cleansing.

      Reply
    4. Jennifer says

      January 18, 2016 at 3:36 pm

      I've tried dandelion root tea and really like it. Thanks for sharing the other ideas.

      Reply
    5. Lori @ TheHealthMinded.com says

      January 19, 2016 at 5:48 am

      Really interesting! This is a new one for me! I drink roasted dandelion root tea quite a bit but the combo here is intriguing. I plan to share.

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 19, 2016 at 10:31 am

        Thank you Lori. 🙂

        Reply
    6. Tamara from Unhurried Home says

      January 19, 2016 at 7:40 am

      That actually looks palatable LOL! I think that I will give it a try. So many herbal drinks are terrible with milk - I love that this one can actually handle cream and sugar. 😀 Is it just as tasty without the yerba mate?

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 19, 2016 at 10:30 am

        Yes - it is just as tasty without it. In fact, I started off without it and then much later learned about Yerba Mate and started including it. But for years, I made herbal coffee without it and it was just as delicious.

        Reply
    7. Deborah @ Confessions of a mother runner says

      January 19, 2016 at 10:21 am

      I've never seen anything like this! How interesting. I do love coffee and maybe I would give this a try.

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 19, 2016 at 10:33 am

        It's a good alternative to coffee. Thanks Deborah.

        Reply
    8. Chris says

      January 20, 2016 at 7:16 pm

      Such a different hot drink.

      Reply
    9. Bonnie V says

      January 21, 2016 at 5:15 am

      Interesting. I currently drink two cups of coffee a day because I really do feel like I need the caffeine, but I hate how they leave me dehydrated. I'm curious to give this a try just to see if I could go without the caffeine.

      Reply
      • Anya says

        January 21, 2016 at 9:00 am

        Yes - give this a try. I would wean from 2 cups slowly though. It's hard without coffee. Sigh.

        Reply
    10. Anya says

      January 25, 2016 at 6:19 pm

      Thanks so much Deborah. Always a pleasure.

      Reply
    11. Organic Health Advantages says

      August 01, 2017 at 11:58 pm

      Hi,
      Thanks for sharing this amazingly delicious and healthy recipe, it has been a great help. Keep sharing and caring.

      Reply
    12. Carol L says

      September 04, 2018 at 3:38 pm

      Just FYI: Yerba Mate DOES contain caffeine. That is why so many use it as a coffee substitute (not the flavor, but the caffeine). I actually don't know how much caffeine it has or how it compares to the amount of caffeine in coffee, but it is there.
      This is a good replacement for coffee, though, with or without the Yerba Mate. I would make sure that both the chicory and dandelion root are roasted, and leave out the dandelion leaves, as they are bitter. (Even for a coffee substitute). I also love the addition of the "bulletproof" ingredients, making it even healthier for you: (butter, collagen, cinnamon as long as it is sweet cinnamon also called Ceylon and NOT CASSIA, which is bad for you). I would use cream; either coconut or if you are lucky enough to get it, RAW cream, but not milk. Fat is GOOD for you and does NOT make you fat. It is SUGAR which makes you fat. I like to also add a pinch of Himalayan salt and a drop of vanilla....YUMM!!!
      Thanks for sharing!

      Reply
      • Anya says

        September 04, 2018 at 3:56 pm

        Oh that all sounds so yummy! Perfect drink to start the sweater weather! 😉

        Reply
    13. Carol L says

      September 04, 2018 at 3:42 pm

      OOPS! Sorry, I didn't notice in the recipe portion you DID list ROASTED chicory and dandelion as ingredients!

      Reply
    14. Rachael Wingate says

      September 22, 2019 at 1:06 pm

      Hi! Interested in making a big batch of this herbal coffee for my work week. Any idea how long it stays good in the fridge?

      Reply
      • Anya says

        September 24, 2019 at 4:49 pm

        Hi Rachael,
        I would keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days comfortably. Toss after that time. Enjoy! 🙂

        Reply

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