Mushroom coffee is a hot trend. But what do these popular mushroom ingredients taste like?

Maybe you’re worried that your morning cup will taste like fungus. Perhaps you don’t want to sacrifice flavor for the reported health benefits of mushroom coffee. 

Mushroom coffee typically contains a blend of traditional coffee grounds with a variety of functional mushrooms such as lion’s mane, reishi, chaga, or cordyceps.

While mushroom coffee does have its own unique taste profile, most brands develop their products to taste as close to regular coffee as possible. This means dark, earthy flavors, with a mild bitter aftertaste.

Cafely mushroom coffees are designed to emulate the same great flavor as our Instant Coffee Packs.

Let’s explore the unique flavors of mushroom coffee, how to make it, and why it might be worth adding to your morning routine.

The Taste Profile of Mushroom Coffee

Mushroom coffee offers a unique flavor combination of the familiar bitterness of coffee and the earthy flavors of mushrooms like lion's mane and chaga.

One of the predominant flavors of mushrooms is called “umami” — sometimes translated from Japanese to “savory.” It’s considered one of the five basic tastes, along with salty, sweet, bitter, and sour. 

Ultimately, the taste you experience from mushroom coffee depends on which ingredients were included in the formula — this includes both the species of mushrooms used and the quality of the coffee itself.

Mushroom coffee’s primary flavors are described as:

• Smooth
• Nutty
• Earthy
• Like “light” regular coffee
• Roasty

Functional Mushroom Flavors

Mushroom coffee is most often made with functional mushroom species — each of which imparts its own distinct flavor profile.

Most medicinal mushrooms don’t taste very good on their own, which is why they’re typically mixed with coffee and sweeteners to help balance the flavor.

Here are the mushrooms often used in mushroom coffee and the unique flavors they bring to the table:

Lion’s Mane Taste

Lion’s Mane mushroom is often used in recipes as a substitute for seafood, as its flavor is similar to crab. The coffee is made with extract, so it doesn’t taste the same as a freshly picked mushroom. 

Flavors may vary depending on the blend of mushrooms in your mushroom coffee and what you mix into the cup with the brew. 

Cordyceps Taste

This unique mushroom doesn't sound like something you'd want to eat or drink — it's a fungus that grows on the larva of insects. But don't worry; the mushroom completely consumes the insect and maintains none of the buggy taste. These shrooms are slightly sweet, with a distinct (and delicious) umami aftertaste.

Chaga Taste

The taste of chaga mushroom coffee is very earthy with a little bitterness. This mushroom is the most similar to the taste of coffee itself and is often used in Northern countries like Canada and Siberia where it grows as an alternative to coffee.

Reishi Taste

This is another “earthy” flavored variety, common to the other types of mushroom coffee we’ve discussed. These mushrooms grow from trees and can impart some of the woody, sappy flavor of its host. 

Turkey Tail Taste

This fungus gets its name from the fact it looks like the tail feathers of a wild turkey — but it doesn’t taste “fowl.” These shrooms have a rich flavor with earthy and nutty undertones. Many people say they prefer the taste of turkey tail to other functional mushroom species.

Flavor Comparison: Mushroom Coffee vs. Regular Coffee

Mushroom coffees are designed to imitate the flavor of regular coffee. In many cases, functional shrooms are combined with coffee directly to help mask the earthy, somewhat funky flavors they can produce.

Here’s how they compare:

	Regular Coffee	Mushroom Coffee
Top Notes	Bright acidity, especially in arabica blends	Sometimes sweet, sometimes salty
Mid Notes	Fruity & nutty flavors	Smooth, nutty flavors
Bottom Notes	Bold and bitter “roasted” flavors	Earthy undertones
Aftertaste	Lingering roast flavor with mild bitterness	Lingering “umami” flavor

What Users Say About the Flavor of Mushroom Coffee

We took a look at some customer reviews, and here's a sample of what typical responses look like:

• "Taste is not great, but not overtly terrible. I've not experienced any difference in how I feel or think afterward."

• “Has a bit of an earthy flavor but no one would know it contained mushrooms if they weren't previously aware.”

• “I love the taste!!! I don’t like heavy roasted coffee before.” 

• "I doubt I will ever go back to regular Joe. I can't say that my health has improved, but I certainly don't get the caffeine jitters anymore. As far as the taste? I think the taste is great. I do not drink my coffee black, so those of you who may have a different opinion."

Some consumers report that the taste varies depending on the brand of mushroom coffee or what it's mixed with, such as a sweetener or creamer. Others mix mushroom coffee with regular coffee. 

If you aren't pregnant, don't have existing health conditions, or take medications—in which case you should speak with your doctor—you can give mushroom coffee a try and see for yourself. Experiment with brewing methods and added flavor boosts, and give it a week or two before making a final decision.

Mushroom Coffee That Actually Tastes Good

If you’re ready to try a mushroom coffee that actually tastes good, check out Cafely’s new line of instant mushroom coffees. Available in a variety of flavors, all formulated using pure and organic Vietnamese coffee beans, functional mushrooms, and synergistic adaptogenic herbs and nutrients.

Here’s what makes our mushroom coffees unique:

• Premium Mushroom Blend — We use premium mushrooms and extracts to cut the bitter or "mossy" flavors common in coffee made with lower-grade mushrooms.

• Coffee Flavor — Our mushroom coffees are designed to taste like coffee, not mushrooms. They offer hints of nuttiness with a mild sweet aftertaste to balance it out.

• Less Than 1 Grams of Sugar — Our mushroom coffees are made with no added sugar or artificial ingredients.

• Caffeine-Free Versions Available — There are caffeinated and caffeine-free versions available.

• Enriched with Superfoods — We use a blend of functional shrooms like lion’s mane, reishi, and chaga, along with synergistic herbs like rhodiola, Siberian ginseng, and saffron for added benefits.

Top 4 Mushroom Coffee Alternatives

Mushroom coffee isn’t for everyone — its earthy, nutty, uniquely flavored qualities are loved by many, but others would rather have regular coffee.

Fortunately, there are other options to consider. Some people even combine smaller portions of mushroom coffee with regular coffee or tea to help dilute the flavor further.

Likewise, sweeteners like sugar, honey, maple syrup, and milk/milk alternatives can go a long way in curbing the undesirable flavors of mushroom coffees.

With that said, here are the best alternatives to mushroom coffee:

1. Instant Vietnamese Coffee

Ready-to-drink authentic Vietnamese coffee in an instant format is an excellent alternative to mushroom coffee. 

You get the same rich flavor of Vietnamese coffee from a barista, made at home in seconds.

Cafely’s instant coffees are crafted using fair trade robusta beans blended with monk fruit. It comes in single-serve packets that provide one cup per packet and can be enjoyed hot or over ice.

Cafely’s instant coffee products are also low in sugar, with only 1 gram total and no added sugar, while still delivering an intense and delicious flavor. 

There are three choices:

1. Black instant coffee — as strong as possible.
2. Milk instant coffee — creamy and bold. 
3. Coconut instant coffee — tropical and earthy. 

2. Chicory Root Coffee

Chicory is a flowering plant in the dandelion family, and its roots are roasted and ground to make chicory coffee. You’ll get a similar flavor as mushroom coffee, as it’s described as earthy and nutty. It’s caffeine-free unless you mix it with coffee grounds. 

Chicory root has been linked to some health benefits based on some of the nutrients in the plant. For instance, chicory root is a good source of the prebiotic fiber inulin that supports gut health.

3. Matcha Tea

Matcha tea is made from the same plant as green tea, but it’s grown differently and provides different nutrients. For instance, matcha has more caffeine and antioxidants than green tea.

Its flavor has also been described as earthy, but there are undertones of a more “vegetable” or “grassy” flavor. Some would say it’s nutty and bitter. It’s often sweetened with honey and milk to improve the flavor.

4. Turmeric Lattes

Also known as “golden milk,” a turmeric latte is made with milk and turmeric, and typically cinnamon and ginger. Variations of the recipe include using oat milk, adding honey and vanilla, and pinching in a bit of sea salt. It can be served hot or cold.

Turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger all have antioxidant properties. The flavor of a turmeric latte is described as being similar to chai tea or chai tea lattes, but because it doesn’t have any caffeine, it’s meant to soothe you rather than kickstart your day. 

FAQs: Mushroom Coffee Flavor

1. Is mushroom coffee suitable for everyone? 

Most people can handle mushroom coffee, but it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider if you have specific health concerns or if you’re taking medications. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding shouldn’t drink mushroom coffee without speaking to a doctor.

2. How does the caffeine content in mushroom coffee compare to regular coffee?

Mushroom coffee typically contains less caffeine than regular coffee, making it a good option for those who are sensitive to caffeine.

3. Can mushroom coffee replace my regular coffee?

Yes, it can be enjoyed as an alternative to your regular coffee, especially if you’re looking for a less acidic option with possible health benefits. If you have a health condition or you’re on medications, check with your doctor first.

4. How should I store mushroom coffee to maintain its flavor?

Like regular coffee, mushroom coffee should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

5. Is mushroom coffee more expensive than regular coffee?

Mushroom coffee can be more expensive because it contains medicinal mushrooms. However, you may find the unique benefits and flavors justify the cost.