A new coffee craze has taken TikTok by storm, and it’s got everyone talking. Dubbed “cloud coffee,” this quirky beverage is making waves for its tropical spin on the classic iced americano. Unlike the usual coffee shop staples, cloud coffee swaps out plain water for coconut water and sometimes includes a splash of non-dairy milk for a creamy finish. It’s a bold, refreshing twist that’s caught the attention of Gen Z and curious coffee lovers alike. But what exactly is cloud coffee, where did it come from, and most importantly, does it live up to the hype? Let’s break it down.

The rise of cloud coffee is yet another example of TikTok’s power to turn simple ideas into global phenomena. The platform has a knack for transforming everyday recipes into must-try trends, and coffee seems to be a favorite playground for experimentation. From whipped dalgona coffee to espresso mixed with orange juice, TikTok has birthed some wild creations. Cloud coffee, however, stands out for its promise of a tropical escape in a glass. The name itself is a bit mysterious—no one’s quite sure why it’s called “cloud” coffee, but the light, breezy vibe of coconut water and a frothy milk float might have something to do with it.

At its core, cloud coffee is simple: it’s an iced americano where coconut water replaces the usual water, giving it a subtle sweetness and a hint of tropical flair. Some versions add a layer of non-dairy milk, like oat or almond, to create a creamy texture and a visually appealing cascade when the espresso is poured over it. The drink’s appeal lies not just in its taste but also in its health-conscious edge. Coconut water is packed with electrolytes and nutrients, which has led some TikTokers to tout it as a “healthier” coffee option. Whether those claims hold up is debatable, but the idea of a refreshing, nutrient-rich coffee drink is certainly enticing.

Making cloud coffee is straightforward, but there’s room for creativity, as the trend lacks a strict recipe. This flexibility has led to countless variations across TikTok, with users experimenting to find the perfect balance of flavors. One key insight from those who’ve tried it is that proportions matter. Too much coconut water can overpower the espresso, leaving you with a drink that tastes more like a tropical juice than a coffee. The sweet spot seems to be a compact six-ounce serving, which keeps the coffee’s boldness front and center while letting the coconut water add a subtle, refreshing twist.

One popular approach is to use young coconut water, ideally from brands like Harmless Harvest, which has a naturally pink hue and a cleaner, less artificial taste compared to sweeter, processed alternatives. The coconut water brings a slight sweetness and a smooth mouthfeel that pairs surprisingly well with the bitter, robust notes of espresso. Ice is another crucial element—small, pebble-like ice works best to keep the drink chilled without diluting it too quickly. The espresso is typically poured over the ice and coconut water, creating a striking layered effect as the dark coffee swirls into the lighter liquid below.

Some TikTok videos show creators whipping non-dairy milk with the espresso before pouring it over the coconut water, aiming for a creamy, latte-like texture. However, this addition can weigh down the drink, making it feel heavy and less tropical. Instead, many who’ve tested the recipe suggest skipping the milk altogether and opting for a squeeze of lime. The citrusy zing cuts through the coconut water’s sweetness, adding a bright, refreshing kick that enhances the tropical vibe. It’s a simple tweak that elevates the drink from good to great, making it feel like a beachside sipper rather than a muddled coffee experiment.

For those eager to try cloud coffee at home, here’s a detailed recipe to get you started. You’ll need a few basic ingredients and tools: a double shot of espresso (about 20 grams of coffee grounds yielding 40 grams of espresso), a bottle of young coconut water (preferably Harmless Harvest for its pure flavor), a lime wedge, a highball glass, and plenty of small ice cubes. Start by filling the highball glass to the brim with ice. Pour in the coconut water, leaving just enough room for the espresso. Carefully float the espresso over the coconut water, letting it cascade through the ice for a visually stunning effect. Garnish with a lime wedge, snap a quick photo for social media if you’re feeling fancy, then squeeze the lime into the drink and give it a gentle stir. The result is a crisp, refreshing coffee that’s equal parts bold and tropical.

One thing to avoid is trying to make a hot version of cloud coffee. Early experiments with hot coconut water and espresso proved disastrous, resulting in a strange, unappealing mix of flavors. The warmth amplifies the coconut water’s odd texture, and combining hot espresso with cold coconut water creates a tepid, unpleasant mess. Stick to the iced version—it’s where cloud coffee shines.

The drink’s appeal goes beyond its taste. Part of cloud coffee’s charm is its Instagram-worthy aesthetic. The way the espresso swirls into the coconut water, creating a gradient of dark brown to pale pink, is tailor-made for social media. It’s no surprise that TikTokers are sharing videos of their creations, complete with lime wedges and perfectly curated glassware. The drink’s vibrant look and tropical flavor make it a perfect fit for warm weather, whether you’re sipping it at home or showing it off at a café.

So, is cloud coffee worth the hype? For coffee lovers looking for something new, it’s a surprisingly delightful option. It’s not going to replace your morning latte or cold brew, but it’s a fun, refreshing change of pace that feels like a mini-vacation in a glass. The combination of coconut water’s subtle sweetness, espresso’s bold kick, and a hint of lime creates a balanced drink that’s both familiar and excitingly different. Plus, it’s easy to make at home, requiring minimal ingredients and no fancy equipment.

As TikTok continues to churn out viral food and drink trends, cloud coffee stands out as one of the more successful experiments. It’s not just a gimmick—it’s a genuinely tasty beverage that brings something new to the coffee world. Whether you’re a seasoned coffee drinker or just curious about the latest social media craze, cloud coffee is worth a try. Grab some coconut water, brew a shot of espresso, and give it a whirl. You might just find yourself hooked on this tropical twist.

Cloud Coffee Recipe

Ingredients:

• A double shot of espresso (20g coffee grounds, yielding 40g espresso)
• Young coconut water (Harmless Harvest recommended for its pure, slightly pink flavor)
• A lime wedge
• Small ice cubes
• Highball glass

Instructions:

1. Fill the highball glass to the top with small ice cubes.
2. Pour coconut water into the glass, leaving just enough room for the espresso.
3. Carefully pour the double shot of espresso over the coconut water, letting it cascade through the ice for a layered effect.
4. Garnish with a lime wedge.
5. Squeeze the lime into the drink and stir gently.
6. Enjoy your refreshing, tropical cloud coffee!