Enjoying delicious coffee doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive – in fact, it can often be quick, convenient, and cost-effective with instant coffee. In this blog post we’ll go over how to make instant coffee. With just a few simple steps, you can start your day off right with a flavorful cup of joe anytime, anywhere.
What is Instant Coffee?
Instant coffee [1] is a dehydrated form of brewed coffee that comes in granules or powder. This type of coffee requires minimal preparation and can be enjoyed as soon as it’s mixed with hot water. It may not taste quite as good as freshly-ground beans, but it can still be an enjoyable experience for those looking for their daily caffeine fix.
When was instant coffee invented?
Instant coffee was invented by Japanese scientist Satori Kato in 1901. It was initially marketed as a convenient way to make coffee quickly and easily, without having to grind beans or use traditional brewing methods. Today, instant coffee is still popularly used for its convenience and affordability.
Don’t equate instant coffee with Turkish coffee – What’s the difference?
Turkish coffee is made by boiling finely-ground, unfiltered coffee with water and sugar. This method produces a strong, potent flavor but also sediment at the bottom of the cup. Instant coffee doesn’t involve any grinding or boiling, so it’s not as intense or bitter as Turkish coffee.
>> See more: How to make Turkish coffee

Is Instant coffee the same as ground coffee? Which one should I drink?
Instant coffee and ground coffee are not the same. Instant coffee is made of pre-ground, dehydrated beans that are mixed with hot water to create an instant beverage. Ground coffee uses freshly-ground beans, which provide a more intense flavor than instant coffee. Depending on your preference, either one can be enjoyed – though it’s worth noting that ground coffee will generally taste better if made correctly.
>> See more: How much ground coffee per cup
Who is Instant coffee for?
– Instant coffee is a great choice for busy people on the go who don’t have time to wait for fresh-brewed coffee.
– It’s also popular among travelers, as it’s lightweight and easy to transport without sacrificing flavor.
– For camping trips or other occasions when you don’t have access to a coffee maker.
How to make Instant coffee good and better?
Making instant coffee is very simple and requires only a few items:
- Instant coffee granules or powder
- Hot water (not boiling)
- Cup or mug
- Milk, cream, sugar, or other flavorings of your choice
Instructions:
Making instant coffee is quite easy and straightforward. Here’s all you need to do:
- Step 1: Start by boiling water in a kettle or pot on the stove. Be sure to use fresh, filtered water for the best flavor and consistency. For each cup of coffee you want to make, use 8 ounces of water.
- Step 2: Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee per cup of water. You can adjust the amount depending on how strong you like your coffee.
- Step 3: Place the instant coffee into a mug or cup and pour the hot water over it, stirring to dissolve all of the granules.
- Step 4: For an even smoother flavor, feel free to add cream, sugar, honey, or other flavorings.
- Step 5: Enjoy your cup of instant coffee!
Making instant coffee is a great way to satisfy your caffeine craving without having to worry about complicated brewing techniques or fancy equipment. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and flavorful cup of joe anytime, anywhere.

1. Hot – how to make instant coffee hot?
To make instant coffee hot, simply boil the water, measure out 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules for each cup of water and pour the hot water over it. Stir to dissolve all of the granules before adding cream, sugar or other flavorings if desired.
2. Iced – how to make iced instant coffee
To make iced instant coffee, simply boil the water and measure out 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules for each cup. Once the granules are dissolved in the water, pour it into a glass filled with ice cubes. Add cream and sweetener if desired and enjoy!
3. Latte – how to make an iced latte with instant coffee
To make an iced latte with instant coffee, start by boiling water and measuring out 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules per cup. Dissolve the granules in the hot water, then pour it into a glass filled with ice cubes. Add 1/4 cup of milk or cream and a teaspoon of honey or sugar for sweetness. Stir to combine and enjoy!
4. Mocha – how to make an iced mocha with instant coffee
To make an iced mocha with instant coffee, start by boiling water and measuring out 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules per cup. Dissolve the granules in the hot water, then pour it into a glass filled with ice cubes. Add 1/4 cup of chocolate syrup and 1/4 cup of milk or cream. Stir to combine and enjoy!
5. In the microwave – how to make instant coffee in the microwave?
To make instant coffee in the microwave, place 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules into a mug and pour 8 ounces of hot water over it. For an extra smooth flavor, add cream or sugar before stirring to combine. Microwave for 30 seconds, stir and enjoy!
>> See more:
- How to make strong coffee
- How to make pumpkin cold foam
- How to make caramel iced coffee
- How to make drip coffee
8 tips pro: What’s the best way to make Instant Coffee taste good?
For each cup of water, add 1-2 teaspoons of instant coffee granules. Also be sure to stir thoroughly until all the granules are dissolved before adding cream, sugar or other flavorings if desired.

- Buy quality instant coffee: Cheap instant coffee has a lower quality taste, so it’s worth investing in some high-end brands for the best flavor.
- Use filtered water: The best way to make instant coffee taste good is to use fresh, filtered water and the correct ratio of coffee granules to water.
- Store it properly: Keep your instant coffee stored in an airtight container, away from moisture and heat to preserve its freshness.
- Get creative with spices and flavorings: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg or even cocoa powder to give your coffee an extra layer of flavor. You can also use flavored syrups or sugar-free alternatives if you’re looking for a healthier option.
- Measure your instant coffee in a mug: Using a measuring spoon to ensure you get the right amount of granules in your coffee will help you get the perfect cup of coffee.
- Stir thoroughly: When making instant coffee, it’s important to stir until all the granules are dissolved so that all the flavor and caffeine is extracted from them.
- Add a little cold water: Cold water helps to bring out the flavor of the instant coffee, so add a splash of cold water at the end and stir it in.
- Experiment with your favorite creamer: To make your instant coffee extra creamy and delicious, try adding some almond milk or oat cream instead of regular cow’s milk.
How to use Instant Coffee?
Instant coffee can be used in a multitude of ways. Here are some ideas on how to use it:
- Add instant coffee to cake, cookie, or brownie batter for an extra boost of flavor.
- Use as a base for iced coffee drinks such as frappes and cold brews.
- Add a few teaspoons to hot chocolate or other warm beverages for an intense caffeine kick.
- Use it as a marinade for meats like steak and chicken.
- Sprinkle instant coffee powder over desserts such as ice cream, cheesecake, or tiramisu for an unexpected flavor twist.
No matter how you choose to use it, instant coffee is a great way to get your caffeine fix without having to wait for a pot of brew.
How long does instant coffee last after brewing?
Instant coffee is best consumed within 15 minutes of brewing for maximum flavor and freshness. After that, the taste and quality can start to decline. If you don’t plan on drinking all of your instant coffee right away, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
It’s important to note that instant coffee should not be heated or reheated as this can affect the flavor. If you wish to enjoy a warm cup of coffee, start with freshly boiled water instead.
For long-term storage, instant coffee can be kept in an airtight container for up to 6 months before it starts losing its flavor and aroma. However, it’s best used within the first month or two for optimal freshness.
FAQs about how to make instant coffee
What are K cups instant coffee?
K-cups are single serve coffee pods that contain pre-measured amounts of instant coffee. They come in a variety of flavors, from classic blends to seasonal favorites. K-cups are designed for use in Keurig machines, but can also be used with other brewing devices and even microwaves.
But K-Cups are not considered instant coffee. K-Cups use a single-serve brewing system and contain ground coffee beans that have been brewed before they’re sealed in the cup. Instant coffee is made from dried, granulated coffee extract which doesn’t require any brewing or grinding.
Does instant coffee dissolve in cold water?
No, instant coffee does not dissolve in cold water. Instant coffee is made from granulated coffee extract which requires hot water for the particles to dissolve completely. If you try stirring instant coffee into cold water, you will most likely end up with an uneven and grainy mixture that won’t have a pleasant taste or texture. To make iced coffee, you should use either freshly brewed ground beans or dissolve instant coffee in hot water before adding ice.
Can you eat instant coffee?
Yes, you can eat instant coffee instead of brewing it . However, it is not recommended as it has a very bitter and intense flavor that many people find unpleasant. If you want to try eating instant coffee, it is best to start with a small amount and add sweetness or creaminess if desired.
Will There Be Small Coffee Grounds In My Coffee?
No, instant coffee has already been brewed and dried into granules, so there should not be any small coffee grounds in your cup of coffee.
Does Instant Coffee Have Caffeine?
Yes, instant coffee does contain caffeine. The amount of caffeine can vary depending on the brand and type of instant coffee used but it will usually contain around 60-80 mg of caffeine per cup.
>> See more: How long does it take for caffeine to kick in
Can I Reheat Instant Coffee?
No, it’s not recommended to reheat instant coffee as this can affect the flavor and quality. If you would like a warm cup of coffee, start with freshly boiled water instead.
What is the best way to sweeten instant coffee?
The best way to sweeten instant coffee is to add sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia or honey. You can also try adding flavorings such as vanilla extract, cocoa powder, caramel syrup or flavored syrups. For a creamier texture, try adding some oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk or even heavy cream.
How Do You Make Instant Coffee Stronger?
To make instant coffee stronger, you can add more granules of coffee to the water in your cup and stir until it has dissolved. You can also try adding a pinch of ground espresso for an extra kick or using cold brew concentrate instead of regular instant coffee. Finally, you can experiment with different flavorings such as spices, syrups, or extracts to add more depth and complexity to your cup of coffee.
How Long Will Homemade Coffee Powder Last?
Homemade instant coffee powder can last for up to 6 months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. It’s best used within the first month or two for optimal freshness. If you plan on storing homemade coffee powder for longer than 6 months, it is recommended to keep it in the freezer. This will help to keep it fresh for longer.
Finally, remember to always make sure that you are using clean utensils and mugs when making instant coffee and store the leftover powder in an airtight container for optimal freshness.
Do you just mix instant coffee with water?
Yes, one of the easiest and most common ways to make instant coffee is to simply mix it with hot water. Be sure to use freshly boiled water for the best flavor and stir until the granules have dissolved. You can also experiment with different ratios of water to instant coffee to find your favorite strength and flavor.
You can also try adding other ingredients to your cup of instant coffee such as milk, cream, sugar, honey, or flavorings like cinnamon, syrup or cocoa powder for a delicious twist on regular coffee. You can also make cold brew concentrate from instant coffee by mixing equal parts water and instant coffee granules and refrigerating it overnight. This will create a stronger, more intense coffee that can be served either hot or cold.
Is there a substitute for instant coffee powder?
Yes, there are several substitutes for instant coffee powder that you can use to make a cup of coffee. One substitute is espresso powder which is made from concentrated and dehydrated espresso shots. This will provide a more intense flavor and aroma compared to regular instant coffee. You can also try using finely ground drip or pour-over coffee beans instead of instant coffee powder. The strength and flavor of the resulting cup of coffee will depend on the type and grind size of beans used. Finally, you can also try using freshly brewed espresso or ground coffee from a cafetière for a fresher, more flavorful cup of coffee. Depending on your preference, any of these substitutes can be used in place of instant coffee powder.
Is instant coffee or ground coffee better?
That depends on personal preference. Instant coffee is a convenient and easy way to make a cup of coffee without any special equipment or techniques. Ground coffee will give you more control over the strength and flavor of your cup of coffee, but requires more preparation time and specialized equipment such as a grinder and filter. Ultimately, it comes down to what works best for you. If you are looking for convenience without compromising on flavor, instant coffee is a great option. If you want to bring out more of the nuances of specialty coffee beans, then ground coffee may be the better choice. Experiment with both and decide which one works best for your needs.
Conclusions
Making instant coffee is an easy and convenient way to enjoy a delicious cup of coffee. How to make instant coffee? All you need is instant coffee powder, hot water, and some stirring. Additionally, there are many ways to customize your cup of instant coffee such as adding milk, cream, spices and flavorings for added depth and complexity. You can also try using substitutes for instant coffee powder like espresso powder or freshly brewed espresso for a more intense flavor. Finally, decide which option works better for you: instant coffee or ground coffee. Experiment with both and find out what works best for your needs. Enjoy!

Hi, I’m Zelda Kain. I love coffee – probably a little too much! I work as an admin at Rhythmcafe, a local spot renowned for its fresh ingredients and delicious coffee. I also review home appliances such as grinders, espresso machines, and more. I’ve tried out almost every model available, so if you’re in the market for any of these items be sure to check out my reviews!