Mushrooms for breakfast? You bet. The best mushroom coffee contains powerful health benefits and good-for-you nutrients that help you stay energized and focused throughout the day.
Our editors and experts handpick every product we feature. We may earn a commission from your purchases. Learn more.
That precious little cup of joe—which we’ve come to depend on to kick start our day—can cause us anxious jitters, a post-afternoon crash and even a restless night of sleep. That’s why more and more people are turning to mushroom coffee, a functional beverage gaining popularity for its ability to deliver sustained energy and sharper focus—without the downsides of regular coffee. Common mushrooms like lion’s mane and cordyceps are known for boosting cognitive function and endurance, while adaptogens like reishi help the body manage stress and fatigue.
As a dietitian, I often get asked about the health benefits of these brews. Many blends now include other superfoods or adaptogens, offering added immune and mood support. Whether you’re looking for a caffeine-free option, a focus-enhancing alternative or something easier on the stomach, mushroom coffee is a smart daily swap. We tested 11 of the most popular brands to help you find the right one for your daily routine.
Contains 500 mg of log-grown lion's mane and wildcrafted chaga for improved memory, focus and immunity
Utilizes fruiting bodies of mushrooms, not mycelium (roots)
Tastes like regular, dark roast coffee
Organic, vegan and gluten-free
Cons:
The serving (4 Tbsp per 12 fl oz) may be a little strong for some, but easy to adjust based on personal preference
Slightly more bitter flavor
Different caffeine tolerance levels for some users
Editor’s note: This product’s packaging has been rebranded from “Think” to “Focus,” but the coffee is the same.
Four Sigmatic was one of the pioneers of the mushroom coffee trend, and their Focus dark roast ground coffee is a classic for a reason. It features organic coffee blended with lion’s mane to improve focus and memory and chaga to boost overall mood and well-being. With over 26,000 ratings, it’s also the top-selling mushroom coffee on Amazon.
The blend uses log-grown Lion’s Mane and wildcrafted Chaga mushrooms. These two adaptogens are known for promoting mental clarity, focus and a smooth, sustained energy boost. Unlike many alternatives, it’s also organic, vegan and gluten-free. As far as taste, you’ll hardly notice anything other than your favorite type of coffee in there. With a standard caffeine content, you won’t be giving up your regular cup of joe in exchange for the beneficial adaptogen compounds, either. While Four Sigmatic’s website says you’ll see improved focus in as little as seven days, I can attest that I felt the effects on the first day.
The biggest drawbacks? It’s more expensive than standard coffee, and a few users find the taste slightly bitter or unusual. Caffeine sensitivity can vary from person to person, so effects may differ. Still, if you’re looking to boost focus without sacrificing your morning ritual, Four Sigmatic’s mushroom blend is a compelling option—both for its health benefits and its surprising similarity to the real thing.
KATIE BANDURSKI FOR TASTE OF HOME
Best Benefits
Atlas+ Coffee Superblend
Pros:
2,250 mg of functional mushrooms (ashwagandha, reishi, lion's mane and cordyceps)
Some users report improved focus and gut health
Mid-low caffeine content
Quick and easy to prepare
First order includes coffee scoop and milk frother
Cons:
Slightly chalky mouthfeel
Mixed feedback on taste (burnt or unpleasant for some)
We’re already big fans of Atlas Coffee Club for its round-the-world coffee and tea subscription services. Now, they’ve entered the mushroom coffee space with an Atlas+ Superblend that lives up to its name.
Each serving is packed with 2,250 milligrams of functional mushrooms, including ashwagandha, reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps. But the benefits don’t stop there. You’ll also get cassia cinnamon, probiotics, prebiotics, L-theanine, collagen and vitamins D3 and B12.
“It tastes like a lot of instant coffees, bitter with a slightly chalky mouthfeel,” says tester Katie Bandurski. “There’s no complexity or balanced flavor like you get with brewed coffee, but it’s considerably better than other mushroom coffees I’ve tried.” Our cup was easy to prep—simply blend a scoop of powder into hot water. The end result resembled beef bone broth more than coffee, but the benefits kicked in almost immediately.
“I was shocked to learn there’s only 45 milligrams of caffeine in each serving,” Katie explains. “I noticed an immediate difference in clarity and energy that picked me out of my afternoon slump.” As an added bonus, your first order comes as a kit featuring a coffee scoop, milk frother and recipe booklet. There’s also a latte version if you prefer some sweetness.
The biggest drawbacks are the taste (described by some users as burnt or bland) and skepticism around the health claims. While some experience noticeable benefits, others say they feel no difference. One Reddit user noted, “I got some, I actually liked it. It brewed pretty strong, but I drink my coffee black and strong so it was about how I normally like it.”
If you’re open to experimenting with instant mushroom coffee and prioritize convenience and added nutrients over flavor complexity, Atlas+ Superblend is worth a try—especially for midday focus and gut support.
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Best Value
Laird Superfood Focus
Pros:
Economical price, with small serving size extending the longevity of one bag
Features a blend of functional ingredients and superfoods for improved focus, immunity and stress relief
Utilizes lion's mane fruiting bodies for maximum benefit
Contains caffeine with a smooth taste comparable to regular coffee
May provide energy without jitters
Cons:
Only contains one type of mushroom
Taste is divisive; some find it unpleasant
Laird’s Focus coffee calls for just 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per serving, meaning the more affordable 12-ounce bag will last you a lot longer than other ground mushroom coffee brands on this list that call for two to three times that amount. This makes it one of the more economical options, especially if you’re looking to integrate functional ingredients into your daily routine without burning through a bag too quickly.
This coffee is almost like your typical medium roast, except that it contains coffee cherry (an antioxidant), lion’s mane mushroom and Rhodiola extracts (an adaptogen botanical known to relieve stress) for a powerful and energizing blend of functional ingredients and superfoods. Leading with ground Peruvian coffee beans and caffeine, this blend is a fair trade for your current coffee brand.
Laird’s coffee beans are grown at a high altitude, which the company says is responsible for delivering a complex flavor profile. I’d have to admit, I agree. I preferred the taste of this blend compared to that of the stronger, darker roasts. Speaking of taste, Laird Superfoods also offers mushroom creamer to combine with their coffee for lasting focus and sustained energy.
If you’re looking for a jitter-free energy boost and a plant-powered coffee alternative, it may be worth a try. One Reddit user wrote about the Laird Superfood creamer, “It definitely helps me focus on work and it makes me more energized.”
Bottom line: Laird’s Focus coffee delivers a solid mix of adaptogens and antioxidants, but its effectiveness and flavor may not win over everyone.
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Best Instant
La Republica Superfoods
Pros:
Blend of seven superfood mushrooms
Fruiting bodies are dual-extracted for maximum benefits
Contains no other ingredients or filler
May provide sustained energy without jitters
USDA organic, fair trade, NON-GMO, vegan
Cons:
Some might prefer a bolder, stronger taste
Earthy, dirt-like taste is a frequent complaint
Confusing coffee-to-water ratio on label
Add seven powerful mushrooms to Arabica coffee, and you get La Republica’s Focus & Energy. Even better? This coffee comes in a convenient, instant blend to take to work or on the go.
But you won’t have to trade in quality for convenience. La Republica sources its coffee from wild-grown fruiting bodies that are dual-extracted to release the maximum beneficial compounds. This blend offers an array of benefits—from increased energy and improved brain function to boosted immunity, digestion and stress support—keeping you healthy while enhancing your daily performance.
I found the taste to be very mellow and smooth, not at all bitter. Unlike other coffees that left me feeling jittery and scattered, La Republica made me feel focused and calm. That said, taste reviews are mixed—many users describe it as earthy or “dirt-like,” which may be off-putting to traditional coffee drinkers. Adding milk or creamer can help mellow the flavor.
One Reddit user noted, “The coffee itself tastes surprisingly good—not much different from regular coffee. I noticed a more sustained energy level without the usual midday crash.” However, the product label’s coffee-to-water ratio can be confusing, which may impact prep and taste if not followed carefully.
Overall, if you’re looking for a highly functional mushroom coffee with clean sourcing and third-party testing, La Republica stands out. Just be prepared for a flavor that leans more wellness tonic than café classic.
On Sale
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Lowest Price in 30 days
Best Latte
Clevr Coffee SuperLatte
Pros:
Great tasting latte with vegan creamer included in the blend
50 mg of caffeine for immediate energy without feeling caffeinated or jittery
Contains probiotics for gut health
Cons:
It's pricier than some other brands on this list (but creamer is included)
Flavor may be overpowered by coconut and monk fruit
Some find taste and texture unpleasant
What I like most about the Clevr Coffee SuperLatte is that it contains coffee, a blend of mushrooms and a creamer all in one. Like instant coffee, there’s no prep required—just pour in hot water and enjoy a drink that tastes professionally made in the comfort of your home and for a fraction of the cost.
While other popular mushroom brands contain their latte versions, I found Clevr’s SuperLatte to be superior in taste—comforting but not too sweet. The flavor is smooth and spiced, though some users say the coconut and monk fruit can overpower the blend. Clevr also sells a variety of other popular flavors, including Matcha, award-winning Sleeptime and Chai.
Aside from the taste, the latte provided instant energy I could wake up to every morning. Even better, Clevr’s latte is formulated with brain-boosting, mood-lifting ingredients like ashwagandha, reishi and lion’s mane, as well as heat-resistant probiotics for immune-boosting power. It tasted so good, I drank it too fast!
The flavor and texture are polarizing, though. Some customers find it overly thick or rich, while others also note they needed to use more than the recommended serving to get the right flavor intensity.
Still, for those looking for a wellness-forward, all-in-one mushroom latte that supports mood, digestion and focus, Clevr SuperLatte hits a sweet spot—just know the taste may not be for everyone.
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Best Low-Caffeine
MUD/WTR
Pros:
Low-caffeine option (35 mg caffeine)
2,248 mg of mushrooms (chaga, reishi, lion's mane, cordyceps)
Contains antioxidants for immune support
Comforting, smooth taste with hints of ginger and turmeric
USDA Organic
Cons:
Pricier than other brands on this list
Although I felt calm and focused initially, I was needing a second cup by late morning
Taste is divisive (earthy, bitter)
MUD/WTR is neither mud nor water: It’s a mushroom coffee that ditches most of the caffeine for a potent blend that’s as charged with health benefits as it is with energizing properties. Made with masala chai and a range of organic spices, the flavor veers more toward a chai latte than coffee.
Don’t let its low caffeine content fool you. It still contains 2,248 milligrams of energy and immune-boosting adaptogens from chaga, reishi, lion’s mane and cordyceps. With about 35 milligrams of caffeine per serving, MUD/WTR offers a gentle lift that some users find calming and focused, while others say the effects are too mild. Some also report unwanted side effects like nausea or dizziness.
MUD/WTR offers a subscription service, so you never have to worry about running low. (These are our other favorite coffee subscription boxes.) However, customer service feedback is mixed. Some users have had trouble canceling their subscriptions or getting timely support. We suggest sampling before committing to a monthly delivery.
Bottom line: MUD/WTR offers a wellness-forward coffee alternative with adaptogens and a unique flavor, but it’s best suited for open-minded sippers who don’t mind some sediment—or a bold taste.
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Best for Brain Health
Shroomi Dark Roast Focus Mushroom Coffee
Pros:
1000 mg of lion's mane mushroom per serving, cultivated naturally from fruiting bodies without fillers
Dark roast coffee tastes similar to regular coffee, providing 60 mg of caffeine per serving
USDA Organic
Fair Trade Certified
Website contains a mushroom certificate of analysis
Cons:
A handful of reviewers did not care for the taste
Low dosages of key mushroom compounds
Occasional packaging inconsistencies
Here’s a coffee that works smarter, not harder: Shroomi’s blend contains 100% organic Arabica ground coffee beans and 1,000 milligrams of brain-boosting, organic lion’s mane mushroom in every cup. As a champion for mental health awareness, Shroomi offers a line of mushroom coffees and shots to help deliver an array of health benefits from various mushroom blends.
I tested their dark roast with lion’s mane, which, as their website states, is a mushroom that “has been clinically shown to naturally support memory, focus and concentration.” I found the taste comforting and similar to regular coffee, and I was pleasantly surprised to find I felt immediately energized, focused and in a positive mood. While the initial effects may be attributed to the caffeine content, I’m eager to fuel my brain every morning to reap the long-term benefits.
That said, Shroomi contains a relatively low dosage of lion’s mane compared to brands like Four Sigmatic or Ryze, which may limit its long-term functional benefits. Also, some users report not noticing any clear difference in energy or focus, and a few mention mild digestive discomfort.
Packaging inconsistencies have also been flagged by customers, including unclear expiration dates or minor product settling. Still, Shroomi stands out for being certified organic, non-GMO and more affordable than many other mushroom coffees.
In short, Shroomi is a great starter option for mushroom coffee newcomers who value good taste, affordability and clean ingredients.
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Best Extract Powder
ReNude Chagaccino Superfood Coffee Boost
Pros:
Powerful mushroom blend that can be used with your current coffee brand
Strong antioxidant properties
Great taste
Zero calories and 0 grams of sugar
Easy to mix into various drinks
Cons:
Only contains one type of mushroom
Possible blood sugar spikes
Although it doesn’t contain coffee itself, ReNude’s Chagaccino Superfood Coffee Boost powder features a powerful blend of mushrooms and adaptogens that can be stirred into your favorite coffee or espresso. This makes it ideal for coffee lovers who don’t want to give up their favorite roast but still want to reap the benefits of mushrooms and superfoods.
The immune-boosting powder features 500 milligrams of wild foraged chaga mushroom per serving, which contains 40 times more antioxidants than blueberries. Visit ReNude’s website for a full list of chaga benefits, which include stress relief, anti-aging properties and improved gut health. However, some users have reported digestive discomfort or mild blood sugar spikes—likely due to the natural sweeteners or adaptogen blend.
I blended my chagaccino with my favorite cold brew and some plant-based milk over ice. While I felt the taste was fantastic, the instructions state that you can use less powder for a less sweet result (but who would want to do that?).
Overall, ReNude Chagaccino is a flavorful, health-forward way to enhance your coffee routine—or replace it entirely—for those looking to boost immunity and reduce stress with minimal prep.
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Best for Gut Health
Velty Uncaffeinated Instant Coffee
Pros:
Includes lion’s mane mushroom, ginger and inulin
Contains prebiotics, antioxidants and anti-inflammatories
Caffeine-free
Woman-owned and sourced from women farmers and producers
Cons:
Unique earthy flavor may not appeal to some who prefer the taste of traditional coffee
One of the pricier coffees on our list
May not dissolve easily; can leave gritty texture
Each serving of Velty’s instant coffee contains 4 grams of organic, gut-friendly ingredients to support digestion and, as their site states, “nurture the connection between mind and gut.” Since coffee can cause upset stomachs for some, it’s only natural that this gut-friendly digestif is also caffeine-free.
With ingredients such as Jerusalem artichoke inulin and mesquite powder, this does not taste like your ordinary coffee, but more like a comforting broth. If you can get past the unique flavor profile in exchange for a daily dose of gut-friendly ingredients and immune-boosting mushroom compounds, this may just be the coffee for you. (We think you’ll be happy trusting your gut instincts on this one!)
Another standout is Velty’s ethical sourcing, which uses beans grown by women farmers in Nicaragua. The product is also easy to prepare: just stir into hot water. However, some users report that it doesn’t fully dissolve, occasionally leaving behind a gritty texture. Compared to other decaf or caffeine-free mushroom drinks, it offers a rare combination of prebiotics, lion’s mane and zero caffeine.
If you’re looking for a gentle, non-caffeinated coffee alternative that’s kind to your gut and packed with functional ingredients, Velty is worth a try.
On Sale
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Lowest Price in 30 days
Best for Calm Focus
Everyday Dose Mild Roast Coffee+
Pros:
Quick and easy to prepare
Contains 4 grams of collagen protein and 18 amino acids per serving
100% fruiting body extracts of chaga and lion's mane mushrooms
Less caffeine than regular coffee
Low acidity
Cons:
Not vegan- or vegetarian-friendly
Flavor might be too mild for some
I was eager to try Everyday Dose because it contains L-theanine, an amino acid that I’ve recently started taking for its calming effects and sleep support. It might seem strange that the same cup of coffee that perks you up in the morning can also make you sleep better at night, but that’s why multi-benefit mushroom coffee is having a moment.
If you want all the benefits of mushroom coffee without it tasting like you’ve just been foraging, this one fits the bill. Each cup contains 5 grams of collagen protein and 100% fruiting body mushroom extracts—half chaga, half lion’s mane—that produce, to my pleasant surprise, a mild taste just like regular coffee. I did detect a slight earthy smell, but it was much more subtle than the other coffees I sampled.
The powdery texture is much finer than coffee grounds. I used a frother and found that it dissolved very quickly in hot water, leaving no sediment at the bottom of the cup. You can also add it to cold water, but I needed a spoon to dissolve it further and kept stirring my straw as I drank.
I brewed Everyday Dose in a variety of ways to get the full experience. As a hot cup of black coffee, it tasted like a light, mild roast. There was no bitterness and no taste of mushrooms, but there were some chocolatey undertones. I then tried a cup with soy milk, just like the way I always drink my coffee, and enjoyed the light, pleasant taste. It was also nice and smooth over ice with some soy milk, with no bitterness or aftertaste. Everyday Dose also works as a base for lattes, smoothies and as a boost to overnight oats and baked goods.
I alternated this coffee—which has just 45 grams of caffeine— with my regular coffee over several days, and I could tell the difference. With each Everyday Dose cup, I felt more focused and less overwhelmed from practically the first sip. Unlike with regular caffeine, where my brain takes off faster than the rest of me, I was able to concentrate on my to-do list without getting sidetracked by all the other shiny things. My partner also swapped out his regular coffee to give this a try, and he said it’s the only coffee he’s had that lifted the brain fog instantly.
I enjoyed feeling a calm sort of energy that allowed me to power through my day. This was everything I would want in a coffee: the sustained focus and motivation to take on the day without the crash or jitters.
On Sale
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
Lowest Price in 30 days
Best with Vitamins
VitaCup Mushroom Focus Coffee
Pros:
Great blend of B vitamins, D3 and inulin prebiotic fiber
Comparable taste and caffeine content to regular coffee
No artificial colors or flavors
Custom crafted by expert roastmasters
Cons:
Didn’t experience boost in memory or brain focus
Might be too much caffeine for some
Slightly acidic taste, especially when enjoyed cold
If you’re someone who wants the benefits of a mushroom coffee without the mushroom taste, then VitaCup is for you. This mushroom coffee brings functionality to your morning routine with the addition of essential vitamins, antioxidants and prebiotic fiber, in addition to the touted brain-energizing focus from the lion’s mane and chaga mushroom blend.
It’s easy to brew in either a pour-over or drip coffee maker. Just add 2 tablespoons of coffee for every 6 ounces of water and brew—five minutes for drip, and two to four minutes for pour-over. Want a faster pick-me-up? Brew the same 2 tablespoons as a shot of espresso.
This coffee tastes like a premium cup of medium-dark roast coffee, not mushrooms. It’s advertised as being full-bodied with earthy undertones and a smooth finish, and I would agree. I prefer a lighter roast, but I did appreciate the aroma and smoothness—it felt like I was drinking high-end coffee. There was a bit of an acidic taste, but it was pleasant otherwise. There are some earthy undertones, but other than that, it tasted like a regular cup of coffee that I enjoyed with a splash of my regular soy milk. In my experience, iced coffee is always a bit bolder, and that was the case with VitaCup, although I also detected more acidity and a bit of an aftertaste.
VitaCup contains 110 milligrams of caffeine per serving, which is more than the other best mushroom coffees on our list. As someone who is sensitive to caffeine, I felt it—I didn’t experience the calming effect like I’ve had with other mushroom coffee I’ve sampled. In fact, the effects were similar to those of a regular coffee. I felt more energized, but my brain was still scattered, and I did have some jitters. I liked the energy, but I didn’t get the sharpened focus that the lion’s mane is supposed to promote.
As someone who follows a plant-based diet, I appreciate that VitaCup contains 100% of your daily recommended value of B12, and then some. At 120 micrograms per serving, this is more than enough B12, especially if you enjoy a few cups a day. But don’t worry, there is no risk in consuming excess B12—your body will simply excrete what it doesn’t use.
New Testing in 2025
In my quest to find the best good-for-you pick-me-ups, I tested additional brands to see how mushroom coffee continues to evolve. While taste profile is important (especially if you’re a coffee lover like me), the health and wellness benefits are what make mushroom coffee so popular.
I added Everyday Dose Mild Roast Coffee+ in the Best for Calm Focus category because, among other beneficial ingredients, it contains L-theanine, which promotes calming effects in every cup. Everyday Dose might taste the same as regular coffee, but it’s got far less caffeine, so there are no jittery effects.
With its full dose of B12, VitaCup Mushroom Focus Coffee is worthy of its place in the Best with Vitamins category. It tastes like a cup of high-end coffee, but you’re also getting in vitamins, antioxidants and even prebiotic fiber with every sip.
What To Look for When Buying Mushroom Coffee
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
The number of mushroom coffees on the market today can be overwhelming. The whole point of looking for a mushroom coffee is to help relieve stress, not add to it, right? Here are a few important factors to consider to help make the process a little easier:
Product type: Mushroom coffee comes in several forms—traditional coffee blends with mushroom extracts, latte mixes and superfood-enhanced powders. Think about how you like to prepare your coffee and choose accordingly.
Caffeine content: First things first: Are you looking to cut down on or eliminate your caffeine intake in exchange for more natural energy? Or do you still want to enjoy your daily cup of joe but with the added health benefits of adaptogens? There are many mushroom coffee brands, so tackling this step first will help to narrow your options significantly. Some of the bigger mushroom coffee brands offer a variety of caffeine levels, while others are strictly decaf. Look for labels that clearly indicate whether the blend is fully caffeinated, low-caffeine or caffeine-free.
Coffee quality: For optimal taste (especially for the coffee connoisseurs out there), the quality of coffee beans used is also an important factor. Check the company website or packaging to learn how they source and cultivate their coffee beans. From there, select a roast that suits your preference. If you don’t want to shelf your current coffee, no problem! Opt for a mushroom powder that can be added to your favorite coffee or espresso for an adaptogenic boost. Flavor profile also matters—some brews are earthy and bold, while others are smoother or mocha-like.
Coffee preparation: Just like regular coffee, you can purchase ground or instant (or even coffee pods) depending on your preference and needs. Purchase ground coffee for use in a drip coffee maker, French press or pour-over, or grab an instant version for convenience when on the go (or if you don’t want to hog the office coffee maker with your mushroom brew). If convenience is key, stick with instant mixes or single-serve pods.
Mushroom type and quantity: Depending on your intended use, select a coffee that contains a mushroom variety that will work for you. Chaga, reishi, turkey tail, shiitake and maitake have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in immune support. Lion’s mane has been shown to help with focus and memory and promote brain health. Cordyceps has been touted for its ability to provide natural and sustained energy. While the quantity of mushroom content per coffee appears to range from 500 to 2000 milligrams per serving, selecting a coffee that utilizes the beneficial mushroom compounds from “fruiting bodies” and not just the mycelium (i.e., root) is important. Fruiting bodies are generally considered more potent than mycelium, so prioritize blends that call this out.
Ingredients: Before purchasing your mushroom brew, scan the ingredients to ensure there are no added fillers, unnecessary flavors or sweeteners. Some shroom brews may contain additional helpful ingredients, such as ashwagandha, prebiotics or healthy spices like turmeric or cinnamon. Lastly, if organic ingredients are important to you, look for a mushroom coffee that includes the USDA Organic Seal. Other certifications like vegan and gluten-free can also be helpful indicators of quality.
Price: Of course, you’ll also want to consider the price when choosing the best mushroom coffee. In doing so, pay close attention to the serving size to determine how far your mushroom brew will get you. Some higher-priced options offer better mushroom dosages or premium coffee beans, so it’s worth checking cost per serving for value.
NANCY SNYDER FOR TASTE OF HOME
How We Found the Best Mushroom Coffee
In researching and testing the best mushroom coffees, I found a curated coffee alternative blend for just about everyone, considering key factors such as taste, caffeine content and intended use (focus, energy, immunity and gut health—just to name a few).
I purchased a Cuisinart coffee maker and hot water system to test a variety of ground and instant coffee. This allows for brewing drip coffee, and the handy hot water dispenser allows me to conveniently dissolve instant coffee for a quick cup of joe.
During the first round of testing, I sampled the mushroom coffee blends for 11 non-consecutive days (which I reserved for work days where I needed to focus) to evaluate their taste and effects.
On the first day of testing, I made all of the coffee brands. I evaluated and compared each based on their flavor profile without any added creamer, milk or sweeteners (except for ReNude’s Chagaccino, which is a mushroom powder that is to be added to regular coffee with the addition of plant-based milk and ice).
After that, I tested one mushroom coffee per workday and noted the favorable effects on energy (immediate and sustained), mood and ability to focus, as well as any potential unwanted effects from the caffeine content of some of the brands.
When testing the two additions to this best mushroom coffee list, I sampled hot and iced cups of each coffee, both black and with a splash of soy milk (my preferred way of drinking coffee). I evaluated their flavor profiles and any favorable/unfavorable effects in a similar way to the others.
From my testing, I narrowed the group down and selected the best mushroom coffees for this list. Because no two mushroom coffee drinkers are alike, the coffees have been ranked based on intended uses to find the right shroom brew for you.
Other Mushroom Coffees We Tried
OM Mushroom Superfood Coffee Blend: While most mushroom coffees taste a little off compared to a classic brew, the OM blend was very bold, strong and earthy. That said, it has one of the best blends of whole mushrooms and beta-glucans, which provide immune support. If you can get past the taste, it’s worth a shot for the overall health benefits.
Ryze Mushroom Coffee: This was by far my least favorite-tasting mushroom coffee, thanks to its acidic tang. I tried Ryze on a Tuesday morning after a long weekend and a night of poor sleep. It did sustain my energy without jitters, scattered thoughts or stress, but the benefits were not strong enough to overcome the unpleasant taste.
FAQ
Is mushroom coffee good for you?
Mushrooms have long been touted for their medicinal and nutritional benefits on brain health, immunity support and digestion. Whether we can reap these same benefits from the dried and extracted mushrooms contained in these coffee brands is still being researched. That being said, most mushroom coffees contain less caffeine, which can positively change your daily routine. Caffeine, when consumed in high amounts or during unfavorable times of day, can increase cortisol (a hormone produced during times of stress), cause unwanted jitters or anxious feelings and prevent you from getting decent sleep. On the other hand, mushroom coffees have been marketed for their ability to provide natural and sustained energy throughout the day without a crash.
While mushroom coffee can be enjoyed by many, those with difficulty digesting mushrooms should avoid it. Those with kidney issues or a history of kidney stones should consult with their doctor first (due to the oxalate content of some mushroom varieties).
Is mushroom coffee really beneficial?
Research on each mushroom type is still developing. Here are their reported health benefits:
Lion’s mane: One of the more common adaptogen extracts contained in mushroom coffee, lion’s mane has cognitive benefits, including improved focus, memory and mood.
Chaga: This mushroom is rich in antioxidants (significantly greater than that of acai, pomegranate or blueberries) to help support immune function and overall well-being.
Reishi: Contains health-promoting properties that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Cordyceps: As an adaptogen that helps relieve stress and fatigue, cordyceps improves energy, stamina and endurance.
Turkey tail: Like chaga and reishi, the turkey tail supports immune function and overall health.
Shiitake: Rich in B vitamins, minerals and fiber, shiitake mushrooms offer immune-boosting benefits.
Maitake: Rich in beta-glucans, maitake has favorable effects on cholesterol and cardiovascular health.
Why You Should Trust Us
As a culinary dietitian, I have nearly a decade of experience working with restaurants and food manufacturers to provide nutrient analysis and label consulting for thousands of menu items and retail goods. As a result, I am no stranger to scrutinizing an ingredient statement or nutrition facts label to ensure our recommendations are quality products from reputable brands. Plus, as a daily coffee drinker on the hunt for great taste and sustained energy without unwanted jitters or crashes, I can discern the best flavor profiles while also evaluating each mushroom coffee brand’s reported effects.
We are no longer supporting IE (Internet Explorer) as we strive to provide site experiences for browsers that support new web standards and security practices.