Butter Coffee with MCT Oil Recipe

Quick answer

• Combine brewed coffee with grass-fed butter and MCT oil for a creamy, energizing drink.
• Use a blender or immersion blender to emulsify ingredients for a smooth, foamy texture.
• Start with 1-2 tablespoons of butter and 1 teaspoon of MCT oil, adjusting to your preference.
• Ensure your coffee is hot (around 195-205°F) before blending for best results.
• Choose high-quality, unsalted grass-fed butter and a pure MCT oil for optimal flavor and benefits.
• Drink immediately for the best experience.

For the best flavor and nutrient profile, opt for high-quality, unsalted grass-fed butter.

Kerrygold, Irish Salted Butter Sticks, 16 Ounce

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• REAL, SIMPLE INGREDIENTS: Crafted using pasteurized cream and salt, Kerrygold keeps it refreshingly simple. Taste the difference with quality ingredients handled with care for a balanced, pure Irish butter
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Who this is for

• Individuals exploring ketogenic or low-carb diets looking for an energizing breakfast alternative.
• Coffee enthusiasts interested in experimenting with unique coffee preparations.
• Anyone seeking a rich, satisfying coffee drink that may help with satiety.

What to check first

Brewer type and filter type

The quality of your base coffee significantly impacts the final taste of butter coffee. Use your preferred brewing method, whether it’s a drip coffee maker, French press, pour-over, or AeroPress.

• Drip Coffee Maker: Ensures consistent temperature and extraction. Use a paper filter for a clean cup or a metal filter for more body.
• French Press: Produces a full-bodied coffee with more sediment, which can complement the richness of butter coffee.
• Pour-Over: Offers a clean, bright cup that allows the butter and MCT oil flavors to shine through without competition.
• Espresso Machine: While possible, espresso is very concentrated. You might need to dilute it with hot water to make an Americano before adding butter and MCT oil.

Water quality and temperature

Good coffee starts with good water. Use filtered water to avoid off-flavors from chlorine or minerals.

• Water Quality: Tap water can contain impurities that affect taste. A simple Brita filter or a more advanced filtration system can make a big difference.
• Temperature: For optimal extraction, water should be between 195-205°F (90-96°C). If your brewer doesn’t have temperature control, let boiling water sit for 30-60 seconds before brewing.

Grind size and coffee freshness

The right grind size is crucial for proper extraction, and fresh coffee is key for flavor.

• Grind Size: Adjust according to your brewing method. Coarse for French press, medium for drip, and fine for espresso. An inconsistent grind can lead to uneven extraction.
• Coffee Freshness: Use freshly roasted coffee beans, ideally ground just before brewing. Coffee loses its aromatic compounds quickly once ground. Store whole beans in an airtight container away from light and heat.

Coffee-to-water ratio

The strength of your coffee will influence the final taste of your butter coffee.

• Ratio: A common starting point is 1:15 to 1:18 coffee-to-water ratio. For example, 2 tablespoons (about 10-12 grams) of coffee grounds per 6 ounces of water. Adjust to your taste preference. A slightly stronger brew often stands up better to the richness of butter and MCT oil.

Cleanliness/descale status

A clean coffee maker prevents old coffee residues from tainting your fresh brew.

• Regular Cleaning: Wash removable parts (carafe, filter basket) after each use.
• Descaling: Mineral buildup (scale) can affect heating elements and water flow. Descale your machine every 1-3 months, or as recommended by the manufacturer, using a descaling solution or a vinegar-water mixture.

Step-by-step how to make butter coffee with mct oil

1. Brew Your Coffee:

• What to do: Brew 8-12 ounces of your favorite coffee using your preferred method. Aim for a strong, hot cup.
• What “good” looks like: A fresh, aromatic cup of coffee, brewed to your desired strength, ideally between 195-205°F.
• Common mistake: Using lukewarm or old coffee. How to avoid: Always brew fresh coffee immediately before preparing your butter coffee.

2. Gather Ingredients:

• What to do: Have your grass-fed unsalted butter (1-2 tablespoons) and MCT oil (1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon) ready.
• What “good” looks like: High-quality, unsalted grass-fed butter (e.g., Kerrygold) and a pure MCT oil.
• Common mistake: Using regular butter or low-quality MCT oil. How to avoid: Opt for grass-fed butter for its nutrient profile and unsalted to control flavor. Choose a reputable brand of 100% MCT oil.

3. Add to Blender:

• What to do: Carefully pour the hot brewed coffee into a blender. Add the butter and MCT oil.
• What “good” looks like: All ingredients are safely in the blender, not overfilling it.
• Common mistake: Overfilling the blender, leading to spills when blending hot liquids. How to avoid: Ensure the liquid level is well below the maximum fill line, typically at least 1-2 inches from the top.

4. Blend Until Emulsified:

• What to do: Secure the lid tightly on the blender. Start on low speed and gradually increase to high. Blend for 20-30 seconds.
• What “good” looks like: The mixture transforms into a creamy, frothy, latte-like consistency with no visible oil separation.
• Common mistake: Not blending long enough or not using a high enough speed, resulting in an oily, separated drink. How to avoid: Blend until the coffee is fully emulsified and a thick layer of foam forms on top.

5. Check for Separation (Optional):

• What to do: Briefly pause blending and observe the mixture.
• What “good” looks like: No distinct layers of oil or butter are visible; the liquid is uniformly opaque.
• Common mistake: Assuming it’s blended when it’s not fully emulsified. How to avoid: If you see any separation, blend for another 10-15 seconds.

6. Pour and Serve:

• What to do: Carefully pour the butter coffee into your favorite mug.
• What “good” looks like: A steaming, creamy, and inviting beverage ready to drink.
• Common mistake: Pouring too quickly, which can disrupt the foam or cause spills. How to avoid: Pour slowly and steadily.

7. Enjoy Immediately:

• What to do: Drink your butter coffee while it’s hot and the emulsion is stable.
• What “good” looks like: A warm, satisfying, and energizing start to your day.
• Common mistake: Letting it sit too long, which can cause the fat to separate and cool down. How to avoid: Prepare and consume your butter coffee promptly after blending.

8. Clean Up:

• What to do: Rinse your blender and mug immediately.
• What “good” looks like: Clean tools, preventing sticky residue from drying.
• Common mistake: Letting the blender sit with oily residue, making it harder to clean. How to avoid: Rinse with hot water and a drop of dish soap right after use.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Decision rules for how to make butter coffee with mct oil

• If your butter coffee looks separated and oily, then blend for another 10-15 seconds because it hasn’t fully emulsified.
• If you experience stomach discomfort after drinking, then reduce the amount of MCT oil because your body may need to adjust to it.
• If your butter coffee tastes bland or watery, then increase your coffee-to-water ratio for the next brew because the base coffee is too weak.
• If you want a richer, more decadent drink, then increase the amount of grass-fed butter by half a tablespoon because it adds creaminess and flavor.
• If your coffee cools down quickly, then pre-heat your mug with hot water before pouring because this helps maintain temperature.
• If you prefer a less frothy texture, then blend for a shorter duration or use an immersion blender at a lower speed because less air will be incorporated.
• If you’re sensitive to caffeine, then consider using decaffeinated coffee as your base because the added fats do not remove caffeine.
• If your blender lid is not secure, then do not blend hot liquids because it can create a dangerous hot spray.
• If your butter coffee has a peculiar off-flavor, then check your water source and coffee freshness because these are common culprits for undesirable tastes.
• If you are new to butter coffee, then start with smaller quantities of butter and MCT oil because it allows your body to adapt and helps you find your preferred taste.
• If you don’t have a full-sized blender, then use an immersion blender in a tall, sturdy mug because it achieves the same emulsification.

FAQ

What is butter coffee with MCT oil?

Butter coffee with MCT oil is a high-fat, low-carb coffee drink made by blending brewed coffee with grass-fed butter and medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil. It’s known for its creamy texture and is often consumed as an energizing morning beverage, particularly by those on ketogenic diets.

Why use grass-fed butter specifically?

Grass-fed butter is often preferred due to its potentially higher nutritional content compared to conventional butter. It typically contains more omega-3 fatty acids, conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), and fat-soluble vitamins like A, D, E, and K2. It also tends to have a richer flavor.

What does MCT oil do in butter coffee?

MCT oil is a type of fat that is rapidly digested and converted into ketones, which can be used for energy by the body and brain. In butter coffee, it contributes to the fat content, potentially enhancing feelings of fullness and providing a quick energy boost without the typical energy crash associated with sugar.

Can I use a regular blender, or do I need a special one?

A standard kitchen blender works perfectly for making butter coffee. An immersion blender can also be used directly in a mug or heat-safe container, which can be more convenient for single servings and easier cleanup. The key is to create a strong vortex to emulsify the fats.

How much butter and MCT oil should I add?

A common starting point is 1-2 tablespoons of grass-fed butter and 1 teaspoon of MCT oil per 8-12 ounces of coffee. You can adjust these amounts based on your personal preference, dietary needs, and how your body tolerates the fats. It’s often recommended to start with a smaller amount of MCT oil to avoid digestive upset.

Will butter coffee break a fast?

Yes, technically, consuming calories from butter and MCT oil will break a fast, as your body will begin to process these fats for energy. However, some people on intermittent fasting protocols choose to include it as it can provide energy and satiety without significantly raising insulin levels, depending on their specific fasting goals.

Can I make butter coffee ahead of time?

It’s best to make and consume butter coffee immediately after blending. The fats can separate as the coffee cools, leading to a less pleasant texture and appearance. For the freshest and creamiest result, prepare it just before you plan to drink it.

What if I don’t like the taste of butter coffee?

The taste can be an acquired one for some. Ensure you’re using high-quality ingredients – fresh, good-tasting coffee, unsalted grass-fed butter, and a neutral-flavored MCT oil. You can also try adding a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla extract, or a sugar-free sweetener to adjust the flavor profile.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Detailed health benefits or risks of ketogenic diets.
• Specific medical advice regarding fat intake or dietary changes.
• In-depth comparisons of MCT oil types (e.g., C8 vs. C10).
• Advanced coffee brewing techniques (e.g., specific pour-over methods).
• How to make homemade grass-fed butter.
• Comprehensive guide to coffee bean origins and roasting.