What is White Coffee? Discover These Unique Coffee Beans

what is white coffee

White Coffee. No, it's not a cappuccino with too much milk. White Coffee is a unique type of coffee that is quietly winning the hearts of coffee lovers. And while the name may sound very hip, the concept is anything but new!

Imagine this: a coffee bean that skips the browning process and stays nice and light. That's white coffee in a nutshell.

Do you like to discover new coffee flavors? Then White Coffee is definitely worth a try!

Whether it's the roasting process, the taste or the unique brewing methods, there's a lot to discover. Let's take a closer look.

The Journey of White Coffee

White Coffee begins its journey like any other coffee bean, but is roasted at a much lower temperature.

This preserves more of the beans' natural sugars and acids, creating a unique flavor.

Unlike dark roasts, which are distinguished by their caramelized bitterness , White Coffee has a soft, nutty flavor.

Why Is It Becoming Popular?

Health-conscious coffee drinkers and taste lovers are beginning to appreciate White Coffee.

The lower acidity and milder flavor appeal to those who find dark roasts too intense.

Furthermore, it is often praised as a real caffeine bomb, which only increases its popularity.

Where Did It All Begin?

The history of White Coffee is not linked to one country, but is often associated with Yemen and Malaysia.

In Yemen, a traditional method is used where lightly roasted beans are steeped with spices such as cardamom, producing a fragrant drink.

Malaysia, on the other hand, offers White Coffee which is roasted with palm oil margarine and served with condensed milk.

In Yemen, White Coffee is more than a drink—it's a cultural icon, served during social gatherings and ceremonies.

In Malaysia, it is a popular choice in coffee shops, prized for its smooth creaminess and sweet taste.

Both traditions show how White Coffee adapts to local tastes while retaining its essence.

How is White Coffee Made?

The Burning Process

White Coffee is roasted at around 160°C, much lower than the 230°C+ temperatures of dark roasts.

This shorter roasting time preserves the bean's natural oils and sugars, resulting in a lighter color and nutrient retention.

Differences with Regular Coffee

The main difference is in the roast level. White coffee beans remain pale and hard, which requires specialized coffee grinders.

The flavor is also less bitter and more earthy compared to the robust profiles of medium or dark roasts.

Flavor Profile: What Does White Coffee Taste Like?

A Mild, Nutty Flavor

White Coffee has a taste that is very different from, for example, the full intensity of an espresso or the smokiness of a French roast.

It has a mild taste, with nutty and slightly sweet accents. Some even taste a subtle hint of earthy grains.


White Coffee Compared to Traditional Roasts

While dark roast is reminiscent of a campfire, white coffee feels more like a soft summer breeze.

Where traditional roasts offer depth and smokiness, white coffee emphasizes clarity and freshness. It's a totally different experience!

Brewing White Coffee: Tips for the Perfect Cup

Step-by-Step Guide to Brewing White Coffee

  • Grind the Beans the Right Way

White coffee beans are harder than regular roasted beans so you need a sturdy, high-quality coffee grinder.

Grind the beans to a fine or medium-fine consistency, similar to table salt. This will ensure proper extraction during brewing.

Choose your Brewing Method

  • Pour-Over: A pour-over setup, like a V60, is ideal for bringing out the delicate flavors of White Coffee. Place a paper filter in the dripper and rinse it with hot water to remove the paper taste. Then add the ground coffee to the filter.
  • AeroPress: This versatile tool is also a great choice. Place a filter in the AeroPress cap, rinse with hot water, and attach the cap to the chamber. Add your ground coffee to the chamber.
  • Espresso Machine: If you have an espresso machine, get an even finer grind. White Coffee can produce a bright, flavorful espresso, although it is less common.

Measure Coffee and Water

Use a coffee-water ratio of 1:15. For example, for 20 grams of coffee you need 300 milliliters of water. Adjust the ratio if you want a stronger or milder coffee.

Heat your water

Bring the water to a temperature between 90°C and 96°C. Water that is too hot can burn the coffee, while colder water will cause under-extraction.

Start the Brewing Process

  • Pour-Over: Begin by blooming the coffee. Pour just enough water to saturate the grounds and wait 30-45 seconds. This releases trapped gases and enhances the flavor. Then pour slowly and in a circular motion until all of the water is added.
  • AeroPress: Add hot water to the chamber and stir gently for 10-15 seconds. Insert the plunger and press slowly to extract the coffee.
  • Espresso Machine: Press the ground coffee evenly into the filter holder and start the shot. Aim for a brewing time of about 25-30 seconds.

Serve and Enjoy

Pour your freshly brewed White Coffee into a preheated cup. The mild, nutty flavour is delicious pure, but can also be enjoyed with a touch of milk or honey.

Combining White Coffee with Other Flavors

The mild flavor of white coffee pairs perfectly with subtle additions. Add a splash of oat milk or almond milk for a creamy texture without overwhelming the nutty notes.

A drizzle of honey or a pinch of cinnamon can complement the natural sweetness nicely. Avoid strong syrups or heavy cream which can overpower the unique flavor.

Experiment with Brewing Ratios

Start with a standard coffee-to-water ratio of 1:15 (1 gram of coffee per 15 milliliters of water).

Adjust this to your personal taste preference; a slightly stronger or milder cup can bring out different nuances in the White Coffee flavor.

Health Benefits of White Coffee

Higher Antioxidants

The light roast retains more antioxidants, making it a great choice for those looking for a health boost. Antioxidants play a role in neutralizing free radicals, which can prevent cell damage.

Lower Acidity

Due to its lower acidity, White Coffee is gentler on the stomach, a great benefit for coffee lovers who suffer from heartburn or other digestive problems.

White Coffee vs. Traditional Coffee: Key Differences

Burning Time and Temperature

Traditional coffee is roasted longer and at higher temperatures, resulting in darker beans and caramelized flavors. White Coffee, on the other hand, retains its natural characteristics through short, low roasting.

Comparison of Caffeine Content

White Coffee often contains a little more caffeine because the shorter roasting retains more caffeine in the bean. However, the difference is not huge.

Where to Find White Coffee?

Popular Brands and Cafes Offering White Coffee

Specialty coffee shops and online retailers are your best bet. Look for brands that specifically list light roast or White Coffee.

Buy White Coffee Beans Online

Many niche coffee roasters offer white coffee beans on their websites. Check reviews and roast details to ensure authenticity.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Q: Is White Coffee really white?
    A: No, the beans are pale, not white. The term refers to the light roast level, not the color.
  • Q: Does White Coffee contain more caffeine?
    A: Yes, it contains slightly more caffeine than dark roasts due to the shorter roast time.
  • Q: Can I make White Coffee with regular coffee beans?
    A: Not quite. White Coffee requires specific roasting and grinding methods, so regular beans will not give you the same experience.
  • Q: Is White Coffee bitter?
    A: Not at all. The flavor is mild and nutty, with little to no bitterness.
  • Q: How do I store white coffee beans?
    A: Store them in an airtight container away from light, heat and moisture to maintain freshness.

Conclusion: Why Try White Coffee?

White Coffee is an excellent choice for anyone looking to discover new coffee flavors.

With its light roast, mild flavor and unique health benefits, it stands head and shoulders above other coffees.

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just curious, White Coffee is definitely worth a try! And let’s face it, who doesn’t like an excuse for another cup of coffee?