Turmeric is a vibrant yellow spice used in Indian, Thai, Middle Eastern, and Southeast Asian cuisines—and it’s not just for curries anymore. Thanks to its powerful health benefits, turmeric has become a popular addition to wellness drinks like teas, lattes, and now, coffee.
In this post, I’m sharing my go-to turmeric coffee recipe—a delicious, anti-inflammatory beverage that can help support your wellness goals, including weight loss. If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting drink that goes beyond plain coffee, you’re going to love this.
I truly hope you enjoy this recipe! Don’t forget to leave me a comment and rating below if you try this turmeric coffee!
For other recipes using turmeric, try: Turmeric Balls: The Anti-Inflammatory Pick-Me-Up or Turmeric and Ginger Tea (Recipe for Good Health)
Why Add Turmeric to Coffee?
Coffee on its own has antioxidant properties and can support metabolism. But when you add turmeric, you get a whole new layer of health benefits. The star compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to support digestion, reduce inflammation, improve heart and brain health, and yes—even support weight loss.
This turmeric coffee recipe is a warm, spiced drink that you can enjoy in the morning instead of your usual brew, or as a mid-day pick-me-up. It’s quick, easy, and made with ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
Health Benefits of Turmeric
Studies show that consuming 500-2,000 mg of turmeric daily can improve health (1). Here are a few of the many science-backed benefits you can receive from consuming turmeric:
- Anti-inflammatory: Curcumin helps fight inflammation, which is key for reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Supports weight loss: Chronic low-grade inflammation is linked to obesity and metabolic syndrome. Curcumin may help prevent or manage these conditions by improving gut health.
- Powerful antioxidant: Curcumin fights oxidative stress and may protect against cell damage.
- Supports digestion: May help with digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome and gastric and peptic ulcers.
- Brain & heart health: Early research suggests curcumin supports cognitive function and cardiovascular health.
Expert Tip: For the best absorption, turmeric should be paired with black pepper (which contains piperine) and a source of fat, both of which are included in this recipe.
More on Turmeric Coffee for Weight Loss
Turmeric as a miracle supplement for weight loss is a popular topic. And yes, turmeric coffee can support your weight loss efforts, when combined with a balanced diet and exercise.
But please do not rely solely on the turmeric coffee or supplements as a fast-track to reduce weight or melt away fat.
Curcumin may help reduce inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and regulate fat metabolism, which are crucial to weight management.
To get the recommended 500–2,000 mg of curcumin per day, you’d need several servings of turmeric. That’s why it’s helpful to include turmeric in multiple meals throughout the day.
Check out other great ways to add turmeric to your diet below! 👇
Other Ways to Add Turmeric to Your Diet
To boost your turmeric intake without drinking endless cups of coffee, try these ideas:
- Add to scrambled eggs or tofu scramble
- Mix into soups, stews, or lentils
- Sprinkle on roasted vegetables or potatoes
- Stir into rice, quinoa, or couscous
- Blend into smoothies
- Try my Turmeric and Ginger Tea or Anti-Inflammatory Turmeric Balls
Ingredients for Turmeric Coffee
Coffee– Plain, black coffee is all you need. Do not use flavored coffee. The type of roast is up to you; light, medium, or dark roast.
Turmeric– I use ground turmeric. It will add an earthy flavor to this turmeric coffee. A little bit goes a long way, so if you’re not familiar with the taste of turmeric, use only 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon for this recipe.
Black Pepper– Adding a small amount of black pepper is necessary to increase the amount of curcumin your body absorbs!
Cinnamon– I love cinnamon, so I add a small amount to the turmeric coffee to add familiar and warm notes. This is completely optional.
Vanilla extract– Another optional but wonderful addition. It adds a sweet aroma and flavor that pairs well with the cinnamon and honey.
Honey– To help balance out the earthiness of the turmeric, I add a little sweetness using honey. If you want to keep this recipe vegan-friendly, feel free to use maple syrup or agave nectar.
Almond Milk– you could call this recipe a turmeric coffee latte or golden milk latte with the addition of almond milk. Either way, for the best absorption of curcumin, use a milk with a higher fat content (like oat milk or whole milk)
Including black pepper (active component piperine) when you consume turmeric can help increase bioavailability by up to 2,000%!
Let’s Make It!
This turmeric coffee recipe is straightforward to make. The milk and spice mixture requires a stovetop and a saucepan.
- First, make your spiced milk over the stove by adding the almond milk to a small saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and honey. Whisk until milk and spices are well combined then turn off the stove and le it cool slightly.
- While the milk is cooling, brew your black coffee as desired.
- Pour the spiced milk into your freshly brewed coffee. Stir and enjoy.
- Be sure to stir your turmeric coffee occasionally to keep the spices from settling.
Time-saving Tip: You can also microwave the milk instead of heating it on the stove to save time and dishes.
Other Tips for Best Results
- Start slow: If you’re not used to turmeric, start with 1/4 teaspoon. It has a bold, earthy flavor.
- Add fat: Curcumin is fat-soluble. Adding a small amount of coconut oil, ghee, or a higher-fat milk boosts absorption.
- Drink with food: This helps prevent any stomach discomfort, especially if you’re new to turmeric.
I find that the magic amount of turmeric to add is around 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per 8 ounces of coffee. Turmeric powder contains 3.14% curcumin by weight, so 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric equates to ~94 mg of curcumin.
FAQ
Yes! Let the milk and spice mixture cool completely, then pour over ice with chilled coffee or cold brew.
You can, however, getting turmeric from foods and beverages, which offer additional benefits and are easier for your body to process in smaller amounts daily.
Individuals with gallbladder issues or gallstones should use caution when consuming turmeric. Additionally, if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking anticoagulant medications, talk to your doctor before adding turmeric to your daily routine.
Turmeric Coffee: A Simple Recipe With Many Health Benefits
Ingredients
- 8 fl. oz. black coffee
- 8 fl. oz. almond milk unsweetened
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp ground black pepper
- ¼ tsp vanilla extract
- 2 Tbsp honey
Instructions
- Make the almond milk and spice mixture by setting a small saucepan on the stove over medium heat and adding your almond milk.
- After warming the almond milk for about 30 seconds, add the turmeric, black pepper, and cinnamon. Stir to combine.
- Turn the stove off and add the honey and vanilla extract. Stir to combine and set aside to cool slightly.
- Take this time to brew your black coffee.
- Add the black coffee to your almond spice mixture and stir to combine.
- Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!
Video
Notes
- Adjust the spices to your preference to get the desired flavors you enjoy.
- You may adjust the type of milk used (soy, oat, dairy milk, etc.). FYI: Cow’s milk and soy milk will add more protein, and using a milk with higher fat content will increase absorption of beneficial curcumin.
- For vegans: Make this turmeric coffee recipe vegan by substituting maple syrup or agave nectar for the honey.
- If turmeric causes you stomach upset, cut back to 1/4 teaspoon-1/2 teaspoon per the entire recipe and consume it with a meal, not on an empty stomach.
💬 Share with me: Turmeric for weight loss via this trendy wellness drink is a brilliant addition to a healthy lifestyle. In what ways do you use turmeric? FYI, if you try this recipe, don’t forget to leave a comment below!
Feel free to pin this recipe to save it for later OR to share with others!
Kiran Campbell, RDN is a registered dietitian and entrepreneur with over 16 years of experience in nutrition and health. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in both dietetics and psychology, and is an active member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Cardiovascular Health and Well-being Dietetic Practice Group. Kiran is dedicated to delivering up-to-date, science-backed information on heart health and nutrition. Her mission is to support individuals living with heart disease and empower others to prevent it through informed, heart-smart choices. Learn more about Kiran by visiting her About Page.
According to this recipe it makes
2 -8oz servings of turmeric coffee. Can you drink one serving and put the rest in fridge for the next morning. Then drink your next few cups black.
Yes, you can absolutely save the other serving for the next day and drink black coffee. Gently reheat over the stove or in the microwave. Just remember to stir it well, as the turmeric will likely settle to the bottom. Take care!