15 Best Coffee Alternatives for Energy, Calm, & Flavor (2025 Guide)

If you’re looking to cut back on coffee or ditch caffeine jitters, you’re not alone.

In recent years, more people are exploring the perfect coffee alternative to energize their mornings or unwind in the evenings without the side effects.

This 2025 guide will walk you through the 15 best coffee alternatives – from bold brews that mimic coffee’s flavor to soothing drinks that help you relax.

We’ll cover options for sustained energy, caffeine-free coffee substitutes for calm, and delicious drinks that don’t skimp on flavor.

Let's dive in...

Why People Are Seeking a Coffee Alternative

Coffee is cherished across the country, but it isn’t always the ideal choice for everyone. Here are a few reasons why many are switching to healthy coffee alternatives:

• Avoid Jitters & Sleep Better: Too much caffeine can lead to anxiety, jitters, and even disrupt your sleep. Cutting back with alternatives helps you stay calm during the day and snooze soundly at night.
• Health Benefits: Many coffee substitutes bring their own perks (antioxidants, vitamins, digestive aids). For example, chicory root provides prebiotics for gut health, and turmeric lattes offer anti-inflammatory benefits.
• Lower Acidity: Coffee’s high acidity can aggravate acid reflux or sensitive stomachs. Gentler alternatives (like barley or herbal blends) are easier on the stomach.
• New Flavors & Rituals: Exploring coffee alternatives introduces your palate to new flavors and aromas. Whether it’s a nutty brew or a chocolaty infusion, you can spice up your morning ritual with something different while still enjoying a cozy beverage experience.

If you’re trying to reduce your caffeine intake, dealing with health considerations, or just curious about variety, the good news is there’s a world of beverages beyond your regular cup of coffee.

Let’s explore the top coffee alternatives and find which one might be your next favorite drink...

15 Best Coffee Alternatives for Every Taste

Below, we’ve rounded up fifteen fantastic coffee alternatives. Some provide a gentle energy boost with less caffeine, while others are completely caffeine-free for calm sipping.

Each comes with unique flavors and benefits, so you can find the ones that fit your lifestyle best.

1. Chicory Root Coffee

If you crave a coffee-like experience without the caffeine, chicory is a great place to start.

Chicory coffee is made from roasted chicory root, which has been used as a coffee substitute for centuries (think New Orleans’ famous chicory café au lait). It brews into a dark, robust drink that’s surprisingly similar in taste to coffee.

• Caffeine: None (caffeine-free).
• Taste: Rich, dark, and slightly nutty – very coffee-like.
• Health Perks: Contains inulin (prebiotic fiber) for gut health; low acidity, gentle on the stomach.
• Best For: Coffee lovers who want the taste without the caffeine (brew it like regular coffee).

2. Dandelion Coffee (Dandelion Root Tea)

Roasted dandelion root creates a dark, coffee-like brew similar to chicory.

In fact, you’ll often find dandelion coffee blends combined with chicory and other herbs for a well-rounded flavor. It’s an herbal option gaining popularity among wellness enthusiasts.

• Caffeine: None (herbal, 0 caffeine).
• Taste: Earthy and toasty with mild bitterness and a hint of sweetness.
• Health Perks: Supports liver health and digestion; packed with antioxidants and minerals.
• Best For: Evening or after-dinner use as a gentle, belly-friendly coffee substitute.

3. Mushroom Coffee (Adaptogenic Blends)

Mushroom coffee are typically blends of medicinal mushrooms (like lion’s mane, chaga, reishi, or cordyceps) often mixed with herbs, cocoa, or a bit of coffee.

The result is an earthy, drink that can give you focused energy with fewer jitters.

• Caffeine: Varies by blend (some ~50 mg, many caffeine-free).
• Taste: Earthy and nutty with subtle cocoa notes; smoother than regular coffee.
• Health Perks: Made with adaptogenic mushrooms for focus, stress relief, and immune support.
• Best For: Wellness enthusiasts seeking natural energy and mental clarity without jitters.

4. Matcha Green Tea

Bright green and packed with antioxidants, matcha has become a superstar coffee alternative.

Matcha is a powdered Japanese green tea made from whole tea leaves grown in the shade. Because you consume the entire leaf, you get more nutrients (and a bit more caffeine) than regular brewed green tea. The beauty of matcha is the kind of energy it provides: a calm, focused alertness rather than the jittery spike of coffee.

• Caffeine: Yes (~70 mg per cup, about 2/3 of coffee).
• Taste: Vegetal and creamy with an umami sweetness (vibrant green tea flavor).
• Health Perks: High in antioxidants (EGCG) and L-theanine, promoting calm, focused energy.
• Best For: Morning pick-me-ups with a zen twist – delicious as a hot latte or iced.

5. Yerba Mate

Yerba mate is a South American herbal tea often touted as an alternative to coffee because of its high caffeine content and energizing effect.

Traditionally sipped from a gourd with a metal straw, mate offers a different kind of buzz – many say it’s a smooth, clean energy without the jittery edge.

• Caffeine: Yes (~75 mg per cup).
• Taste: Bold, grassy, and slightly bitter (like a strong green tea with a hint of smoke).
• Health Perks: Loaded with antioxidants, plus vitamins and minerals for a clear, energized mind.
• Best For: Those wanting coffee-level energy in a tea form (a South American tradition).

6. Guayusa Tea

Another gem from South America, guayusa (gwhy-YOU-sa) is an Amazonian leaf tea that’s gaining attention as a coffee alternative.

Like yerba mate, it delivers plenty of caffeine and antioxidants, but with a smoother flavor profile. Guayusa is traditionally consumed by indigenous communities in Ecuador to prepare for the day ahead.

• Caffeine: Yes (~50–75 mg per cup).
• Taste: Smooth and clean with mild natural sweetness; less bitter than yerba mate.
• Health Perks: Rich in antioxidants and amino acids; provides steady, jitter-free alertness.
• Best For: A balanced energy boost when you want caffeine with a gentler touch (great hot or iced).

7. Rooibos Tea (Red Tea)

Rooibos is a naturally caffeine-free herbal tea from South Africa, also known as “red bush” tea.

While it doesn’t mimic coffee’s flavor, rooibos shines as a warm, cozy drink with a rich taste and zero caffeine. It has become popular as a base for lattes and “red espresso” drinks, making it a flavorful alternative for those avoiding caffeine.

• Caffeine: None.
• Taste: Naturally sweet, earthy, and mellow with notes of vanilla and honey.
• Health Perks: Caffeine-free and high in antioxidants; low tannins make it gentle on the stomach.
• Best For: Relaxing evenings or creamy “red” lattes without the caffeine.

8. Golden Milk (Turmeric Latte)

Golden milk, also known as a turmeric latte, isn’t coffee or tea at all – it’s a warming blend of spices simmered with milk.

The star ingredient is turmeric, which gives it a bright golden color (and health-boosting reputation). This ancient Ayurvedic drink has surged in popularity as people look for comforting, caffeine-free alternatives with health benefits.

• Caffeine: None.
• Taste: Warm, lightly spicy, and comforting (turmeric + ginger + cinnamon in creamy milk).
• Health Perks: Anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting (curcumin-rich); aids digestion and relaxation.
• Best For: Nighttime wind-down or afternoon calm ritual – a cozy, caffeine-free latte alternative.

9. Masala Chai (Spiced Tea)

Masala Chai brings the best of both worlds – a bit of caffeine for energy, plus soothing spices for comfort.

Traditional masala chai is a blend of black Assam tea brewed with spices like cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves, and black pepper, usually mixed with milk and sweetener to create a delicious chai latte. Because chai uses black tea, it has less caffeine than coffee but still offers a gentle lift.

• Caffeine: Yes (moderate ~40 mg per cup).
• Taste: Bold, spiced, and aromatic (cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, cloves) – like a hug in a mug.
• Health Perks: Spices aid digestion and heart health (ginger, cinnamon, etc.) while adding antioxidants.
• Best For: A cozy morning or midday drink when you want gentle caffeine and big flavor (chai latte time!).

10. Brewed Cacao (Cocoa Coffee)

Love chocolate? Then brewed cacao might be your dream coffee alternative.

This drink is made from ground cacao beans (yes, the same beans that give us chocolate) that you brew like coffee. The resulting beverage is like a cross between coffee and hot chocolate – rich and aromatic, but without the dairy or loads of sugar (unless you add some).

• Caffeine: Very low (~10–15 mg per cup).
• Taste: Deep chocolatey notes with a roasted, nutty undertone (like a dark chocolate brew).
• Health Perks: Packed with flavanol antioxidants; theobromine offers a mood lift and smooth energy.
• Best For: Chocolate lovers seeking a morning boost or dessert drink that won’t ruin sleep.

11. Barley Coffee (Caffè d’orzo)

Roasted barley has a long history as a coffee replacement, especially in Europe.

In Italy, barley coffee (caffè d’orzo) is commonly found in cafés and enjoyed by all ages. It’s made from ground, roasted barley grains and brews into a dark, malty drink. During World War II when coffee beans were scarce, barley “coffee” grew in popularity and it’s stuck around as a caffeine-free alternative.

• Caffeine: None.
• Taste: Toasty and smooth with mild bitterness and a grain-like sweetness (malt-like).
• Health Perks: Contains soluble fiber for digestion; acid-free and very gentle on the stomach.
• Best For: All-day sipping when you want a roasted coffee flavor with zero caffeine (even kid-friendly).

12. Carob Coffee

Carob is another naturally sweet and caffeine-free ingredient that can be brewed into a coffee-like drink.

Carob comes from the carob pod (often used as a chocolate substitute). When roasted and ground, it can be prepared as a hot beverage with a taste reminiscent of cocoa and coffee combined. Some herbal coffee products blend carob with chicory or dandelion for depth.

• Caffeine: None.
• Taste: Naturally sweet, toasty, and a bit nutty, with a hint of cocoa.
• Health Perks: High in fiber and antioxidants; easy to digest and low in sugar (great chocolate alternative).
• Best For: Anyone craving a sweet, coffee-like hot drink at night or anytime without the buzz.

13. Kombucha (Fermented Tea)

Kombucha is a fizzy, fermented tea that has become a coffee alternative for those who prefer a cold, refreshing pick-me-up.

It’s made by fermenting black or green tea with sugar and a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). The result is a tangy, lightly carbonated drink that can give you a gentle boost without the coffee crash.

• Caffeine: Low (~15 mg per 8 oz).
• Taste: Tart, fruity, and fizzy (fermented tea often flavored with fruits or ginger).
• Health Perks: Provides probiotics for gut health, plus B-vitamins and organic acids; a lower-sugar soda alternative.
• Best For: A refreshing midday pick-me-up or summer coffee swap, especially if you love fizzy drinks.

14. Wild Pistachio Coffee (Terebinth Coffee)

Meet one of the most unique coffee alternatives on our list: wild pistachio coffee.

Despite the name, it’s not made from pistachio nuts, but from the wild pistachio tree’s fruit (also called terebinth or menengiç in Turkish).

This traditional drink hails from the Mediterranean, specifically Turkey, where it’s been wild-foraged and enjoyed for generations. Other Mediterranean countries have used the fruit for soups and breads.

It’s completely caffeine-free and offers a one-of-a-kind flavor experience. It can be prepared in a traditional Turkish coffee pot or simply on the stovetop (see how to brew it).

• Caffeine: None.
• Taste: Nutty, citrusy, and ultra-smooth with subtle earthy sweetness (no bitterness).
• Health Perks: Antioxidant-rich and contains healthy fats; traditionally used for digestion and rich in terpenes for a calm mood.
• Best For: Coffee lovers seeking a luxurious caffeine-free coffee ritual – perfect for stress-free mornings or relaxing evenings.

*Curious about the origins of this drink? Read more in our blog What is Wild Pistachio Coffee? to learn how this Mediterranean tradition made its way into modern cups.*

15. Decaf Coffee (Bonus)

Let’s address the obvious option: you can simply switch to a decaf coffee. Technically, decaf is still coffee – just with most of the caffeine chemically removed – but it deserves a mention for those who love the taste of coffee and don’t necessarily want an entirely different beverage.

• Caffeine: Minimal (~2–5 mg per cup).
• Taste: Almost identical to regular coffee – rich and bitter, just without most of the caffeine.
• Health Perks: Retains coffee’s antioxidants; much gentler on blood pressure, anxiety, and sleep due to little caffeine.
• Best For: Coffee devotees who want to cut caffeine but keep the classic flavor and ritual, any time of day.

Comparison of Coffee Alternatives

To help you choose, here’s a quick comparison of some popular coffee alternatives, highlighting their caffeine content and unique benefits:

Alternative	Caffeine	Flavor Notes	Notable Benefits
Chicory Coffee	None	Rich, roasty, coffee-like	Prebiotic fiber for gut health
Dandelion Coffee	None	Earthy, slightly bitter	Liver support, antioxidant-rich
Mushroom Coffee	Varies (0–50 mg)	Earthy, nutty, smooth	Adaptogens for focus & immunity
Matcha Tea	~70 mg	Green, creamy, umami	Antioxidants, calm alertness
Yerba Mate	~75 mg	Grassy, strong, herbal	High antioxidants, steady energy
Rooibos Tea	None	Smooth, naturally sweet	Hydrating, stress-relief
Golden Milk	None	Spiced, creamy, soothing	Anti-inflammatory, helps sleep
Brewed Cacao	~15 mg	Chocolaty, toasty	Mood boosting, heart healthy
Barley Coffee	None	Toasty, mild, grainy	Gut-friendly, kid-friendly
Wild Pistachio Coffee	None	Nutty, creamy, rich	Polyphenol antioxidants,  calming terpenes, Mediterranean ritual
Decaf Coffee	~3 mg	Same as coffee	Real coffee taste, no jitters

 

FAQ: Choosing the Right Coffee Alternative

Which coffee alternative tastes most like real coffee?

If you’re after a brew that mimics the taste of coffee, your best bets are chicory coffee and dandelion coffee.

Both produce a dark, roasted flavor very close to coffee’s profile – many people won’t even realize it’s not actual java! Other good options are barley coffee and wild pistachio coffee, which offer a rich, full-bodied experience without caffeine. These alternatives can be enjoyed black or with milk just like regular coffee.

For the closest match, try brewing chicory or dandelion and adding a splash of milk or creamer – you might fool your taste buds into thinking it’s the real deal.

What can I drink instead of coffee for energy?

Looking for a morning boost? There are plenty of coffee alternatives for energy.

If you still want caffeine, go for matcha green tea (about 70 mg of caffeine plus calming L-theanine for focus) or yerba mate (around 75 mg of caffeine plus nutrients for sustained energy).

If you prefer to avoid caffeine entirely, consider drinks with natural stimulants: brewed cacao offers theobromine (a gentle, mood-lifting compound), and mushroom coffee with adaptogens can support energy and focus without a crash. 

Are caffeine-free coffee alternatives healthy?

Yes, most caffeine-free coffee alternatives come with health benefits!

Unlike decaf coffee (which is just regular coffee with caffeine removed), herbal alternatives often carry nutrients from the plants they’re made of.

For example, chicory and dandelion are high in antioxidants and support digestion. Rooibos tea is rich in unique antioxidants that may benefit heart health and reduce stress. Golden milk’s turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory.

And EPICUREA's Wild Pistachio Coffee contains beneficial oils and antioxidants from the pistachio fruit, offering a heart-healthy and calming cup. By skipping the caffeine, you’ll also dodge common side effects like the jitters and poor sleep.

How can I transition away from coffee without withdrawal?

Quitting coffee cold turkey can lead to headaches or fatigue due to caffeine withdrawal. A gentler approach is to wean yourself off. Start by replacing one cup of coffee per day with a coffee alternative.

For example, have your morning cup as usual, then switch to matcha or chicory coffee for your next fix. You can also try “blending” – mix half a cup of regular coffee with half chicory/dandelion brew, gradually increasing the ratio of the alternative over time. Staying well-hydrated and getting enough sleep will help, too.

Within a week or two, your body will adjust, and you might find you don’t miss coffee at all (especially when you have tasty replacements to look forward to!).

Ready to Find Your Perfect Coffee Alternative?

Breaking up with coffee doesn’t mean giving up on a delicious, comforting morning routine.

It might take some taste-testing to discover your favorite, but that’s part of the fun. Why not pick a few alternatives from this list and give them a try?

One great place to start is with a truly unique option like EPICUREA's Wild Pistachio Coffee.

It offers the creamy richness of a latte without any caffeine, plus a fascinating backstory rooted in Mediterranean tradition.

If you’re curious to experience a caffeine-free coffee that doesn’t compromise on depth or aroma, give Epicurea’s Wild Pistachio Coffee a try. It just might become your new favorite ritual!

Savor the moment.