Have you ever heard the term “white coffee?” While some people consider this to mean a simple cup of coffee served with milk or cream, giving it a pale or “white” appearance, that isn’t what we are discussing here. White coffee is a newer trend in specialty coffee, and refers to coffee beans roasted to a lighter degree than traditional dark roasts. In the last few years, coffee roasters and baristas have begun experimenting with lighter roasting profiles to highlight the unique characteristics of different coffee beans, especially the subtle floral, fruity, and acidic notes often overshadowed by darker roasts.
How are white coffee beans roasted?
White coffee beans are not a type or variety of coffee bean, but rather, they refer to coffee beans that have been roasted to a specific roast level, which is lighter than traditional coffee roasts. Beans selected to make white coffee are high-quality beans known for their distinct flavor profiles. The type of coffee beans used can vary, but they are often Arabica beans which are known for their complexity and unique flavors.
The roasting process is the key to making white coffee, which is significantly different from traditional coffee roasting. The beans are roasted in a conventional coffee roast until they undergo a series of chemical changes, developing the typical roasted flavors and aromas we all know and love. In contrast, white coffee beans are roasted for a shorter duration, meaning they don’t undergo the same level of chemical transformation. Their roasting time is typically only a few minutes at a low temperature. The objective is to stop the roasting process before the beans reach the first crack, which is the point at which the beans start to expand and release their natural oils. The beans are immediately cooled after the short roasting time to prevent further roasting. The roasting process for white coffee is more challenging than traditional roasting because it requires a delicate balance between achieving a light roast and avoiding underdeveloped or grassy flavors. The result is coffee beans that are lighter in color, sometimes having a pale beige or light brown appearance, and they have a unique flavor profile that highlights the inherent qualities of the coffee bean.
What does white coffee taste like?
Compared to darker roasts, the flavor of white coffee beans is typically brighter and acidic, with floral tea-like notes and fruity notes that include flavors of berries and citrus. It is becoming a trendy choice for those who want to taste the specific nuances of different coffee beans without the dominant flavors of the roasting process. The flavor of white coffee is often described as crisp and lively. White coffee also tends to have a lighter body, which means it has a thinner or tea-like consistency compared to the fuller body of dark roasts. This can make it a refreshing and less heavy coffee experience. The lighter roast also allows for a greater range of complex flavors to shine through.
White coffee beans are a fascinating addition to the world of specialty coffee. This coffee style originated as a response to the growing demand for a coffee experience that emphasizes the natural qualities of the beans rather than the dominant roasting flavors. The practice of roasting coffee to a lighter degree has been embraced by coffee enthusiasts and roasters worldwide, with different regions and cultures putting their unique spin on it. One noteworthy variation of white coffee can be found in Malaysia, where coffee beans are roasted with ingredients like margarine and sugar, creating a distinctive flavor that’s often paired with condensed milk. White coffee beans are a testament to the ongoing exploration of coffee’s potential, offering a vibrant and complex alternative to traditional dark roasts that captivates the palates of coffee lovers seeking a unique and nuanced coffee experience.
Have you ever had white coffee? What did you think? Let us know in the comments!
