Making bulletproof coffee in a coffee maker is certainly possible, but there are some things to keep in mind to ensure you get the full benefits of this high-fat coffee drink. Bulletproof coffee is meant to be made by blending grass-fed butter and MCT oil into coffee to create a creamy, frothy drink. Using a coffee maker doesn’t allow for the same level of emulsification of the fats into the coffee. However, there are some tips and tricks you can use to make a version of bulletproof coffee in a standard drip coffee maker.
What is Bulletproof Coffee?
Bulletproof coffee was created by biohacker Dave Asprey as a way to add healthy fats to coffee for energy and mental clarity. Traditional bulletproof coffee is made by blending 1-2 tablespoons of grass-fed, unsalted butter and 1-2 tablespoons of MCT oil into black coffee. When blended correctly, this creates a creamy, frothy coffee drink that looks like a latte.
The goal of bulletproof coffee is to provide good fats for energy and to help you feel full. The fats in the butter and MCT oil help curb hunger. The caffeine in the coffee also gives you a sustained energy boost. Bulletproof coffee has become popular among keto and paleo dieters who are looking to get more healthy fats in their diets.
Benefits of Bulletproof Coffee
- Provides healthy fats from grass-fed butter and MCT oil
- Gives sustained energy from caffeine and fats
- Curbs hunger and cravings
- Can help boost concentration and focus
- Adds creaminess and flavor to black coffee
Challenges of Making Bulletproof Coffee in a Coffee Maker
The main challenge with making bulletproof coffee in a regular drip coffee maker is that you can’t achieve the same level of emulsification – the blending of the fats into the coffee until smooth and frothy. Emulsification is important for the full experience and benefits of bulletproof coffee for a few reasons:
- It allows the fats to be suspended in the coffee rather than separating or floating to the top
- It creates a creamy, latte-like texture and mouthfeel
- It helps the body absorb the fats better since they are fully blended in
Without emulsifying in a high-powered blender, the butter and MCT oil will simply float to the top of the coffee when brewed in a coffee maker. While you’ll still get some benefits, it won’t have the same effect as a properly emulsified bulletproof coffee.
Tips for Making Bulletproof Coffee in a Coffee Maker
If you want to make a version of bulletproof coffee using just a coffee maker, here are some tips to get as close as possible:
- Use an immersion blender or frother: Adding the fats and blending briefly with an immersion blender can help emulsify them into the coffee better than just stirring.
- Heat the fats first: Melting the butter and MCT oil before adding them to the coffee can help them emulsify more easily.
- Add collagen: Adding unflavored collagen peptides can help thicken the coffee to improve the texture.
- Use a French press: The plunger on a French press can help mix the fats into the coffee better than a drip machine.
- Mix vigorously before drinking: Give the coffee a very thorough stir after brewing to distribute the fats evenly.
While not perfect, using these tips can get you closer to the real bulletproof coffee experience than simply adding the ingredients to the coffee maker’s basket. Playing around with different methods can help you find what works best if you don’t have a high-powered blender available.
Bulletproof Coffee Recipe for a Coffee Maker
Here is a basic bulletproof coffee recipe adapted for a standard coffee maker:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups freshly brewed coffee
- 1-2 tbsp grass-fed, unsalted butter
- 1-2 tbsp MCT oil or coconut oil
- Optional: 1-2 tsp collagen peptides
Instructions:
- Brew coffee using your preferred method. French press or pour over tend to work best.
- Heat butter and MCT oil either together or separately until just melted. About 15-30 seconds in the microwave should do it.
- Add collagen powder if using and stir to dissolve.
- Add melted fats and collagen to the brewed coffee and mix vigorously with a frother or immersion blender for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- You can also use a whisk or spoon to vigorously mix it if you don’t have a frother.
- Mix again before drinking to redistribute the fats. Enjoy!
The key is to make sure the fats are melted and to mix them in as thoroughly as possible. This will allow you to get a similar consistency and experience as a blended bulletproof coffee. Play around with different mixing methods and fat ratios to find your perfect cup!
Pros and Cons of Making Bulletproof Coffee in a Coffee Maker
Here is a quick overview of the main pros and cons of making bulletproof coffee in a regular drip coffee machine versus using a high-powered blender:
Pros:
- More convenient – No need to dirty and clean a blender
- Can make larger batches more easily
- Less noise than a blender in the morning
- Equipment is simpler and cheaper than a blender
Cons:
- Won’t achieve the same emulsification and texture
- Fats may separate and float to the top
- Not as creamy and smooth
- Body may not absorb fats as efficiently
- Have to mix vigorously before drinking
While not an exact replica, making bulletproof coffee in a coffee maker can still provide a quick, convenient option for getting the benefits of bulletproof coffee on busy mornings. Just be prepared for a slightly different taste and texture than blending it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does bulletproof coffee break a fast?
Yes, bulletproof coffee does break a fast due to the high calorie and fat content. Traditional intermittent fasting allows only plain black coffee during the fasting window. The grass-fed butter and MCT oil in bulletproof coffee provide calories and will stimulate digestion and break your fasted state.
Is bulletproof coffee good for weight loss?
Bulletproof coffee can be useful for weight loss due to the appetite suppressing effects of fats and caffeine. By curbing hunger and cravings, it can help you eat fewer calories overall. However, too much can also stall weight loss, so moderation is key.
Can you use coconut oil instead of MCT oil?
Yes, coconut oil can be used as a substitute for MCT oil in bulletproof coffee. Coconut oil contains MCTs (medium chain triglycerides) which provide similar benefits. Start with 1 tbsp coconut oil and adjust to taste.
Is bulletproof coffee good for you?
In moderation, bulletproof coffee can be good for you. It provides energy and focus from caffeine alongside healthy fats. However, going overboard on fat and calories can lead to weight gain. Enjoy bulletproof coffee mindfully as part of a balanced diet.
Can you use instant coffee for bulletproof coffee?
It’s best to avoid instant coffee when making bulletproof coffee. The oils in instant coffee powder may cause the fats to separate or curdle. Freshly brewed drip coffee works best to create an emulsion.
Conclusion
While blending makes the truest bulletproof coffee, it is possible to make a version in a standard coffee maker with a few tweaks. Be sure to melt the fats first and mix vigorously before drinking. You won’t achieve the same level of emulsification but it can still be a convenient way to get the benefits of bulletproof coffee on busy mornings. Experiment to find the best method for your taste preferences and available equipment.