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Best Instant Coffee UK: Best Tasting Coffee in An Instant!

best instant coffee uk

According to the British Coffee Association, people in the UK consume around 95 million cups of coffee every day. Additionally, a whopping 80% of households prefer instant coffee for in-home use.

The above statistics only emphasise the popularity of instant coffee in the UK, thanks to its strong flavour and ability to dissolve quickly in either hot or cold water.

Wondering which is the best instant coffee UK to add to your cart? You have come to the right place.

Because brands are continuously investing in marketing, it can be surprisingly challenging to get one whose instant coffee tastes as good as the real “thing.” Unfortunately, most are weak, and their tastes are sour.

But worry not!

We’ve done the legwork for you. Here’s an up-to-date roundup of the best instant coffee UK. All our picks are not only thick and flavourful but also powerful and arousing. Later below, we’ll also look at all the essentials you need to know when hunting for the best instant coffee.

Let’s dig in!

Table of Contents

Top Picks: The Best Instant Coffee UK!

Top Pick
1
2
3
4
5
Preview
NESCAFÉ Original Instant Coffee Granules, 1 kg
Nescafé Gold Blend Instant Coffee 750G
TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee - 100g (55...
Kenco Millicano Americano Intense Instant Coffee...
Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee...
Product
NESCAFÉ Original Instant Coffee Granules, 1 kg
Nescafé Gold Blend Instant Coffee 750G
TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee - 100g (55...
Kenco Millicano Americano Intense Instant Coffee...
Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee...
Top Features
• The best instant coffee UK • No fillers or additives • 100% blend of Robusta and Arabica coffee beans • Re-sealable tin
• The best dark roast instant coffee • Hinged lid for easy resealing • Contains finely ground Arabica beans
• 100% Colombian Arabica • For both hot and cold drinks • Barista grade
• The best wholebean instant coffee • Freeze-dried • Smooth with a lovely aroma • 85% instant coffee and 15% roast and ground coffee
• 10% micro-ground roasted coffee • 90% instant coffee • 100% Arabica coffee
Ratings
2,489 Reviews
1,449 Reviews
1,407 Reviews
1,426 Reviews
255 Reviews
Price
£26.48
£21.49
£6.99
£23.74
£24.56
Top Pick
1
Preview
NESCAFÉ Original Instant Coffee Granules, 1 kg
Product
NESCAFÉ Original Instant Coffee Granules, 1 kg
Top Features
• The best instant coffee UK • No fillers or additives • 100% blend of Robusta and Arabica coffee beans • Re-sealable tin
Ratings
2,489 Reviews
Price
£26.48
Buy Now
2
Preview
Nescafé Gold Blend Instant Coffee 750G
Product
Nescafé Gold Blend Instant Coffee 750G
Top Features
• The best dark roast instant coffee • Hinged lid for easy resealing • Contains finely ground Arabica beans
Ratings
1,449 Reviews
Price
£21.49
Buy Now
3
Preview
TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee - 100g (55...
Product
TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee - 100g (55...
Top Features
• 100% Colombian Arabica • For both hot and cold drinks • Barista grade
Ratings
1,407 Reviews
Price
£6.99
Buy Now
4
Preview
Kenco Millicano Americano Intense Instant Coffee...
Product
Kenco Millicano Americano Intense Instant Coffee...
Top Features
• The best wholebean instant coffee • Freeze-dried • Smooth with a lovely aroma • 85% instant coffee and 15% roast and ground coffee
Ratings
1,426 Reviews
Price
£23.74
Buy Now
5
Preview
Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee...
Product
Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee...
Top Features
• 10% micro-ground roasted coffee • 90% instant coffee • 100% Arabica coffee
Ratings
255 Reviews
Price
£24.56
Buy Now

Last update on 2022-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

6
7
8
9
10
Preview
Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee for 470...
illy Coffee, Classico Instant Coffee, Medium...
Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee PICK ANY 6 Jars...
Nescafé Azera Americano Instant Coffee Tin 500G
Kenco Latte Instant Coffee 750g
Product
Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee for 470...
illy Coffee, Classico Instant Coffee, Medium...
Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee PICK ANY 6 Jars...
Nescafé Azera Americano Instant Coffee Tin 500G
Kenco Latte Instant Coffee 750g
Top Features
• Medium roast • Freeze-dried • 1 tin makes up to 470 cups • The best tasting instant coffee UK
• 100% Arabica coffee • 97% instant coffee • 3% ground coffee • Medium-roast flavour
• Choose 6 of 38 flavours • Free from sweeteners • Single-serve sticks
• Fruity aroma • Well-balanced • Made from a mix of Arabica and Robusta beans
• Best instant coffee UK for the latte lovers • 45 servings per tin • Perfect packaging
Ratings
199 Reviews
248 Reviews
3,383 Reviews
3,038 Reviews
1,976 Reviews
Price
£29.99
£24.00
£15.98
£17.49
£13.49
-
-
6
Preview
Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee for 470...
Product
Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee for 470...
Top Features
• Medium roast • Freeze-dried • 1 tin makes up to 470 cups • The best tasting instant coffee UK
Ratings
199 Reviews
Price
£29.99
-
Buy Now
7
Preview
illy Coffee, Classico Instant Coffee, Medium...
Product
illy Coffee, Classico Instant Coffee, Medium...
Top Features
• 100% Arabica coffee • 97% instant coffee • 3% ground coffee • Medium-roast flavour
Ratings
248 Reviews
Price
£24.00
Buy Now
8
Preview
Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee PICK ANY 6 Jars...
Product
Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee PICK ANY 6 Jars...
Top Features
• Choose 6 of 38 flavours • Free from sweeteners • Single-serve sticks
Ratings
3,383 Reviews
Price
£15.98
-
Buy Now
9
Preview
Nescafé Azera Americano Instant Coffee Tin 500G
Product
Nescafé Azera Americano Instant Coffee Tin 500G
Top Features
• Fruity aroma • Well-balanced • Made from a mix of Arabica and Robusta beans
Ratings
3,038 Reviews
Price
£17.49
Buy Now
10
Preview
Kenco Latte Instant Coffee 750g
Product
Kenco Latte Instant Coffee 750g
Top Features
• Best instant coffee UK for the latte lovers • 45 servings per tin • Perfect packaging
Ratings
1,976 Reviews
Price
£13.49
Buy Now

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

1. NESCAFE Original Instant Coffee Granules

Sale
NESCAFÉ Original Instant Coffee Granules, 1 kg
2,489 Reviews
NESCAFÉ Original Instant Coffee Granules, 1 kg
  • NESCAFÉ is produced with 100% coffee beans, nothing else
  • Through a careful selection of beans, NESCAFÉ Original...
  • Hinged lid uses Click-to-Close technology for simple and...
  • Easy to serve from and simple to reach every last granule of...

Last update on 2022-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • Capacity: 1 kg
  • Easily resealable containers
  • Full and rich in flavor
  • Zero fillers

Nescafe has been in the business of making top-notch coffee for close to a century. It has hence mastered the art and is now well-recognized as the leading global coffee brand. Thus, it comes as no surprise that Nescafe Original Instant Coffee wins the top spot for the best instant coffee UK. It has retained the best-selling spot for decades, thanks to its affordable price tag.

Made from a unique blend of Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, the Nescafe Original Instant Coffee is packed with a bold flavour, and its aroma is refreshing. However, no information is given on the percentages of Arabica or Robusta used.

After processing, the instant coffee granules are then packed in a one-of-a-kind container that is not only resealable but also completely recyclable. The tin weighs one kg, and the content is enough to make about 555 cups of coffee. Simply mix your coffee with boiled water for the perfect cup of instant coffee. The water shouldn’t be boiling hot.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Bold pleasant flavour
  • Content is enough for making 555 cups of coffee
  • Resealable tin keeps all the moisture out
  • Tin is completely recyclable

Cons:

  • It contains more coffee powder than granules

If you like you are an adept coffee drinker looking to bulk up on large tins of coffee that tastes better than its price, the Nescafe Original Instant Coffee is a great place to start.

2. Nescafe Gold Blend Instant Coffee

Nescafé Gold Blend Instant Coffee 750G
1,449 Reviews
Nescafé Gold Blend Instant Coffee 750G
  • NESCAFÉ is produced with 100% coffee beans, nothing else
  • Through a careful selection of beans, NESCAFÉ Gold Blend...
  • Hinged lid uses Click-to-Close technology for simple and...
  • Easy to serve from and simple to reach every last granule of...

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • Smooth taste
  • Rich flavour
  • In the form of granules
  • 60% Arabica beans

Although the Nescafe Original Instant Coffee will suffice for most coffee drinkers, coffee lovers will crave something more. That’s where the Nescafe Gold Blend Instant Coffee comes in.

It is made by blending the right amount of Arabica and Robusta beans to create a premium coffee that is not only smooth and delicious, but its aroma is rich and stunningly inviting. Its content comprise 60% Arabica beans, which are ground ten times finer than usual to give more flavour than other Nescafe products. And because they are prepared through freeze-drying, the end product retains more of its natural flavour and rich coffee smell.

If you are starting to drink black coffee (with no sugar or milk), and are looking for the best instant coffee UK, then the Nescafe Gold Blend Instant Coffee is a great choice. Its taste isn’t as strong and concentrated as other instant coffee options out there.  You can take it hot, chilled, or you can add a little flavour with a dash of coconut or almond milk.

Pros:

  • Intense, lovely flavour
  • The Arabica beans are ground ten times finer for a smooth, delicious taste
  • Buying the large tins of coffee gives better value for your money than when buying in small sachets
  • It retains its rich taste whether brewed in hot or cold water or even milk

Cons:

  • The lid isn’t as airtight, and you may need to transfer the coffee granules to another container

Do you love your cuppa, dark and intense? The Nescafe Gold Blend ticks all the right boxes. Its instant coffee granules dissolve in water to give a strong and aromatic pick me up.

3. TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee

TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee - 100g (55...
1,407 Reviews
TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee - 100g (55...
  • BARISTA APPROVED UK BRAND - Premium luxury freeze dried posh...
  • SMOOTH RICH ROAST - Tastes delicious with or without milk to...
  • 100% COLOMBIAN ARABICA - Coffee grown at high elevation and...
  • SUPER VERSATILE - Mixes with hot or cold water so can be...

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • 100% Arabica
  • Mixes with cold and hot water
  • Super smooth taste
  • Medium roast 

You see, instant coffee is often associated with a bitter, burned taste. Its taste is quite different from that of freshly ground coffee beans.

However, I am happy to report that the TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee is one of the best tasting instant coffee UK we came across in our search for the best instant coffee UK. That’s because it is made from 100% Barista-grade Columbian Arabica coffee beans. Arabica is superior to Robusta coffee. It has a better flavour and aroma. Plus, because of its higher sugar content, Arabica coffee isn’t as bitter as Robusta coffee.

These coffee beans are brewed and processed via premium freeze drying to give a super-smooth end product. And you can prepare your caffeine kicker in seconds. Do you like your coffee cold or hot? Do you prefer white or black?

The TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee retains its incredible taste whether white, black, cold, or hot. Different package sizes are available depending on your needs. But generally, a pack of 100 grams is enough to make up to 50 cups.

Finally, note that this is a family ran British brand. Plus, all the coffee beans are grown at high elevation and ethically sourced.

Pros:

  • Incredible taste with or without milk
  • Mixes with both hot and cold water
  • Because it is made from 100% Arabica coffee, it tastes less bitter than other types of instant coffee
  • Freeze-dried to retain most of its natural aroma and flavour

Cons:

  • Price is a little on the high side

The TrueStart Barista Grade Instant Coffee makes it to the top three best instant coffee UK for its super smooth taste, fantastic aroma, and versatility. You can mix it with both cold and hot water.

4. Kenco Millicano Americano Intense Instant Coffee

Sale
Kenco Millicano Americano Intense Instant Coffee...
1,426 Reviews
Kenco Millicano Americano Intense Instant Coffee...
  • THE ALL-TIME FAVOURITE - With a full-flavoured aroma and...
  • A BLISSFUL MOMENT - Well-balanced and rounded flavours from...
  • SATISFACTION IN SECONDS - Simply add 1 to 2 teaspoons of...
  • MORE TO US THAN GREAT TASTE - Each cup of Kenco positively...

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • It comes in 6, 95g tins
  • 85% instant coffee and 15% ground and roast coffee
  • Freeze-dried instant coffee
  • Three style options

KENCO is another company with a long history of growing and producing the finest coffee that smells and tastes good. The company has been in existence for close to a century. Similarly, the Kenco Millicano Americano Instant Coffee doesn’t disappoint.

It comes in three styles, namely Americano decaf, Americano Intense, and Millicano Americano. The Millicano Americano has a well-rounded, bold, yet heart-warming taste. Its aroma is rich and inviting. On the other hand, the Americano Intense is simply intense. The Intense style is best for those who like their coffee strong, from its deep aroma to dark-roasted intense, full-bodied taste.

Finally, if you want to reduce the caffeine intake but still fancy a pick me up, the Americano Decaffeinated is an excellent choice. Just like the Millicano Americano, its aroma is rich and inviting. It is also well-balanced and doesn’t have a strong taste typical of most instant coffee.

What’s more, this is a wholebean instant coffee comprising 85% instant coffee and 15% ground and roast coffee. The unique mixture gives your coffee a sweeter and more natural taste. Plus, the beans are prepared by freeze-drying to retain all its flavours.

Pros:

  • It contains a decaf option for people looking to reduce their caffeine intake
  • The intense style works best for people who love strong-tasting coffee
  • Amazing flavour
  • Good value for money
  • This is a wholebean instant coffee with a superior taste to other types of instant coffee

Cons:

  • The Intense style of coffee can be a little too strong

KENCO has set the pace by producing various wholebean instant coffee flavours, including decaf, intense, and Milicano American. There’s simply something for everyone.

5. Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee

Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee...
255 Reviews
Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee...
  • Premium Italian-style instant coffee
  • Contains 10 percent micro ground roasted coffee
  • A full-bodied and rich cup premium coffee
  • Authentic Italian taste

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • 100% Arabica coffee beans
  • Original Italian taste
  • Smooth and full-bodied coffee
  • 10% micro ground roasted coffee

From its beautiful packaging to its delicious taste, the Lavazza Prontissimo ticks all the boxes for any coffee lover. It is a premium wholebean instant coffee ideal for all-day use. Whether you’re looking for the perfect morning caffeine kick or mood booster during the day, this Italian quality instant coffee will suffice.

It is a unique blend made from top-quality Arabica coffee beans to give that original Italian taste. The coffee has 90% instant coffee and 10% micro-ground roasted coffee beans. These finely ground coffee beans ensure your coffee is full-bodied. The aroma is inviting. You can enjoy your cup of Joe any time of the day.

With each sip, you’ll enjoy the fantastic taste of this premium coffee. It isn’t as bitter as other coffees made from Robusta beans. Plus, its smoothness, coupled with the rich yet distinct notes of medium roasted beans, gives its unique taste.

Every order comes with 6 95g tins of coffee. Each 95g tin serves 52 cups.

Pros:

  • Made from 100% Arabica coffee beans to create a premium coffee
  • The 10% micro-ground coffee beans ensure your coffee is smooth yet full-bodied
  • It has a delicious taste and a unique smoky aroma

Cons:

  • A little pricy

The Lavazza Prontissimo Premium Instant Intenso Coffee is a premium and delicious coffee that will keep your blood pumping all day long.

6. Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee

Sale
Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee for 470...
199 Reviews
Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee for 470...
  • Douwe Egberts Pure Gold is made from a blend of the finest...
  • Ideal for pricing products showcased outside
  • Can be easily removed without leaving any residue
  • Water, oil, dirt and tear resistant

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • Serves up to 470 cups
  • Medium roast, well-balanced taste
  • Top of the class freeze-dried coffee beans
  • Ideal for all-day use

If your family enjoys a daily morning caffeine kick, you may want to stock up large tins of coffee. It’s very economical.

One of the best tasting instant coffee UK available in bulk is the Douwe Egberts Pure Gold Instant Coffee. It comes packed in 750 g tins. Each tin is enough to serve up to 470 cups. The tins are beautifully designed and fully recyclable.

Douwe Egberts has over 250 years of experience and have hence honed making premium and excellent tasting coffee. And this instant coffee only rubberstamps their expertise.

It is made from top of the class coffee beans that are blend carefully to give a correctly blended flavour. The beans are a medium roast whose taste is smooth yet not overwhelming. You can enjoy your cup of coffee regardless of the time of the day (or night).

What’s more, the beans are freeze-dried to preserve that sweet aroma you’d get from brewing real beans. However, as expected with these premium options, the price is a little on the high side.

Pros:

  • It comes in a  750g tin that can serve up to 470 cups
  • Brewed and carefully freeze-dried to lock in all the flavours of the coffee beans
  • Well-balanced taste
  • Ideal for all-day use

Cons:

  • Price is a little on the higher side

The Douwe Egberts Instant Coffee stands out as the best instant coffee UK for its premium quality. It is well-balanced and comes in large tins of coffee ideal for whole family use.

7. illy Coffee, Classico Instant Coffee

Sale
illy Coffee, Classico Instant Coffee, Medium...
248 Reviews
illy Coffee, Classico Instant Coffee, Medium...
  • INSTANT COFFEE: illy's instant coffee gives you the great,...
  • 100% ARABICA COFFEE BEANS: illy's unique smooth, rich and...
  • CLASSICO MEDIUM ROAST: Our delicious Classico instant coffee...
  • AUTHENTIC ITALIAN QUALITY: Premium coffee, instantly. Simply...

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • Capacity: 570grams
  • Medium roast taste
  • Flavoured with notes of jasmine, caramel, and orange blossom
  • 100% Arabica coffee beans

The illy instant coffee comes in two flavours, classico medium roast, and intense dark roast. The classico medium roast is made from medium roasted beans to give a smooth yet sweet brew flavoured with delicate hints of orange blossom, caramel, and jasmine. It contains 3% ground Arabica coffee nixed with 97% Arabica instant coffee.

On the other hand, the intense dark roast is made from a unique blend of 15% Arabica ground coffee with 85% Arabica instant coffee to give a dark roast featuring bold notes of dried fruit and cocoa.

But what makes it the best instant coffee UK is that regardless of the flavour, illy’s coffee is super-smooth with a full-bodied taste, thanks to the expertly blend top quality Arabica beans. The coffee comprises 100% Arabica coffee. These coffee beans are sustainably-grown in different parts of the world and illy helps coffee growers gain new knowledge and skills to keep up with the newest innovations for free.

To prepare your cup of illy, simply mix two teaspoons of illy’s instant coffee into a cup of hot (not boiling) water.

Pros:

  • Available in two flavours to suit each coffee drinker’s preferences
  • Made from 100% Arabica coffee for a distinctively smooth and full-bodied taste
  • A best tasting instant coffee UK that tastes almost as good as the real thing
  • Made from sustainably grown coffee beans

Cons:

  • Price is on the high side

The price of illy’s instant coffee is a little higher than that of other instant coffees. However, its high quality, rich taste, and pleasant aroma make it the best instant coffee UK for the money.

8. Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee

Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee PICK ANY 6 Jars...
3,383 Reviews
Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee PICK ANY 6 Jars...
  • Beanies Instant Flavoured Coffee Each 50g Jars. Full range...
  • Flavour is what we do. PICK ANY 6 from over 50 delicious...
  • Each jar is packed with full flavour using the best...
  • CHOICE TASTES BETTER - Pick your choice and enjoy a new...

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • Medium roast
  • Free from artificial additives
  • Ideal for vegans and vegetarians
  • 38 flavours to select from

If you like coffee with flavours, the Beanies flavoured coffee is the best instant coffee UK for you. This option is also great for people who love to add sugars and sweeteners to their coffee and are looking to switch it up with a sugar-free option without the overpowering bitter taste of instant coffee.

The Beanies flavoured coffee comes in a whopping 38 flavours. And all the flavours are sugar and sweetener-free. The process of making flavoured instant coffee is slightly different from that of making the usual instant coffee.

Most companies make their flavoured coffee by coating the instant coffee granules with a flavour of choice. On the other hand, Beanies infuse all its flavours into the granules for a more flavourful and pleasantly smelling instant coffee.  Beanies instant blend comprises both Arabica and Robusta coffee. The manufacturer hasn’t provided specific measures.

When making an order, you’re presented with all the 38 flavours in-store to choose six of your best flavours.

Pros:

  • Sugar and sweetener free
  • Ideal for vegans and vegetarians
  • You can choose up to six flavours for every order
  • 38 flavours to choose from

Cons:

  • Costly

If you love yourself a flavoured cup of coffee, the Beanies flavoured instant coffee is a great pick.

9. NESCAFE AZERA Americano Instant Coffee

Sale
Nescafé Azera Americano Instant Coffee Tin 500G
3,038 Reviews
Nescafé Azera Americano Instant Coffee Tin 500G
  • NESCAFÉ is produced with 100% coffee beans, nothing else
  • Through a careful selection of beans, NESCAFÉ AZERA...
  • Hinged lid uses 'Click-to-Close' technology for simple and...
  • Space efficient tin and easy to store back of house or on a...

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • Blend from both Arabica and Robusta coffee
  • Forms a velvety crema on every cup
  • Well-balanced with a fruity aroma

Experience a barista moment with the best instant coffee UK for people who are always on the go. The NESCAFE AZERA Americano Instant Coffee is made from a blend of both Robusta and Arabica coffee beans. These beans are finely-roasted to give a high-grade instant coffee.

Like with any other instant coffee, preparing this one, too, is a breeze. Simply add a heaped teaspoonful of your instant coffee to a cup of hot water, stir, and you’re good to go. If you like your coffee stronger, two teaspoons will do.

Each cup has a velvety layer with an irresistible fruity aroma – a barista-style experience anywhere and anytime. NESCAFE works directly with its farmers to equip them with the required training and assistance to ensure sustainable coffee farming.  

Pros:

  • It has a smooth and creamy taste
  • Taste isn’t overpowering, but you can add more for a more strength
  • Fruity, well-balanced flavour
  • Forms a velvety crema on every cup to create that barista-style moment at the comfort of your home

Cons:

  • Price is a little  steep

The NESCAFE AZERA Americano Instant Coffee is one of the best instant coffee UK that looks and tastes as close to the coffee shop coffee

10. Kenco Latte Instant Coffee

Sale
Kenco Latte Instant Coffee 750g
1,976 Reviews
Kenco Latte Instant Coffee 750g
  • Enjoy the perfect coffee moment with our Kenco Latte Instant...
  • Freeze dried instant smooth and silky flavoured coffee mix...
  • 3 of the top 4 most commonly purchased drinks in coffee...
  • Kenco have been using the finest coffee beans from across...

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Key Features:

  • Smooth and silky
  • 65 calories per cup
  • 45 servings for each 750g tin
  • The best instant coffee UK for latte lovers

To wrap up is the best instant coffee UK, specially made by Kenco for latte lovers. This smooth and silky brew is made with coconut oil, skimmed milk powder, and more to ensure that “coffee shop” latte experience at your home or office.

It comes packed in a beautiful 750g tin, which is, of course, more environmentally friendly than the everyday latte sachets. Each can contain up to 45 servings, while every serving has 85 calories and 2.2 grams of fat. The coffee is easy to make by adding a scoop of instant water to hot (not boiling) water. The result is a well-balanced instant coffee that has a velvety, silky, and smooth taste.

Pros:

  • It comes with a scoop to ensure the perfect latte
  • Large tins of coffee enough for up to 45 servings
  • Buying the large 750 g tin is more economical than purchasing single-serve sachets
  • Great smooth, silky, and velvety flavour

Cons:

  • The flavour may taste a little too weak for those who love strong coffee

The Kento Latte Instant Coffee 750g is the best instant coffee UK for anyone looking to bulk up their latte. One tin contains up to 45 servings and is more economical and kinder to the environment than buying a box of sachets.

best instant coffee uk

The Best Instant Coffee UK - A Buyers Guide

We know how important it is for you to enjoy your morning cup of coffee.  Its plays a major role in setting the mood and pace of your day. That’s why we have created this section, just for you.

Having read the instant coffee reviews UK section above, there are probably many questions lingering in your mind. Read on for a breakdown of all you need to know when choosing the best instant coffee UK.

What is Instant Coffee?

Instant coffee, also known as coffee crystals, soluble coffee, or coffee powder, is made from whole coffee beans. The beans are roasted, ground, then brewed as desired. The next process involves removing all the water from the brewed coffee. You are left behind with dry coffee crystals. And you’ll only need to add water or milk for an instant cup of coffee.

Do I Need the Best Instant Coffee UK?

Instant coffee has a ton of benefits. Below we’ll look at the main ones.

  1. Quick preparation. Your coffee will be ready within seconds. You don’t even need to have a coffee maker.
  2. Portable. The amount of instant coffee needed to prepare a cup of coffee is, of course, significantly smaller than the number of coffee beans you’d require to make the same quantity of beverage. That makes it an ideal pick when travelling.
  3. Lower in caffeine. Did you know that taking too much caffeine can cause restlessness, disrupted sleep, tremors, anxiety, and more? Luckily, the best instant coffee UK contains a slightly lower caffeine level than regular coffee, making it a better option for people looking to reduce caffeine intake. And if you are looking to reduce your caffeine intake even further, choose decaf instant coffee options. Their caffeine levels are even lower.
  4. Perfect for baking. Does your recipe call for coffee? Instant coffee is your best bet. Its punchy flavour makes it perfect for all pastries.
  5. It has plenty of healthy benefits. You see, a cup of instant coffee contains the same nutrients and antioxidants as ground coffee. Thus, you’ll have better brain function, improved metabolism, better mental health, and more.

On the downside, instant coffee isn’t as tasty as regular coffee. You’ll have to compromise taste for convenience. If you’re more about the taste, consider brewing a fresh pot of coffee with the best coffee beans UK.

Key Features of the Best Instant Coffee UK

1. Jar vs. Single-serve

Instant coffee comes either in a jar or packed in packets enough to make one cup. Single-serve packets are best for anyone who values convenience. They are easier to carry and come in pre-measured amounts enough for one cup.

Jars, as well, have their ton of benefits. Overall, they are cheaper. You can easily carry coffee enough for an entire camping trip in a single jar. And if you need more, the jars can be quickly packaged in a bag for easier portability.

2. The taste

Other than the warmth and metabolism boost we get from our morning cup of coffee, the best instant coffee UK taste should be as close as possible to regular coffee. Unlike freshly brewed coffee beans, instant coffee has a higher level of acidity. But the overall taste differs from one brand to another.

Do you like your coffee dark, light, or medium? We all have different tastes in coffee. Some like it smoky, while others like their rich in flavour. You may need to sample a few options to find the best one for your taste buds. Better yet, please read the instant coffee reviews UK above. We’ve explained in detail what you should expect from each of our top picks.

3. Price

The price of the same amount of instant coffee will vary from one brand to the next. But, the price is not the ultimate determinant of how good or bad the coffee tastes. You’ll be surprised to learn that some budget picks are more delicious than the premium options. Sample a few brands across the entire price range, and read online instant coffee reviews UK to find one that will get your taste bud’s approval.

How Much Should You Pay for the Best Instant Coffee UK?

The cost of instant coffee varies depending on the brand, type of coffee used, and quantity. On average, expect to pay anywhere from £2.50 to £20 (or more) for a tin of 250 g.

Types of the Best Instant Coffee UK

We can classify instant coffee depending on how it is made. There are two methods of making instant coffee, which I’ll discuss briefly below.

  1. Spray Drying – In this method, the brewed liquid coffee concentrate is sprayed as a thin mist into super-hot dry air. By super-hot, we’re talking about temperatures as high as 480 degrees. This hot air takes away all the moisture, leaving behind small, dry coffee crystals.  
  2. Freeze Drying – Freeze-drying, on the other hand, entails several steps. In a nutshell, the process involves subjecting frozen coffee to undergo chemical sublimation, where the ice is turned into vapour without passing through the liquid stage. Let me break down further. The first step involves cooking the coffee into a coffee extract, which is then chilled into a coffee slushie for approximately 20 degrees Fahrenheit. The slushie is further chilled on a tray, drum, or belt to – 40 degrees Fahrenheit to form coffee ice slabs. This ice is now broken down into granules, which are finally sent to a drying vacuum. The drying vacuum helps to vaporise all the ice, leaving behind granules of instant coffee.

While both methods effectively produce instant coffee, freeze-dried instant coffee retains more of its fresh aroma than spray drying.

best instant coffee uk

What is the Best Instant Coffee UK?

The best instant coffee UK is the NESCAFE Original Instant Coffee Granules. It comes in large tins of coffee weighing 1 kg, enough to serve up to 555 cups of coffee. The container is resealable and reusable. What’s more, it is affordable and is made from a mix of Robusta and Arabica coffee to give a bold and rich flavour.

What is the Best Tasting Instant Coffee UK? 

The best tasting instant coffee UK will depend on your preferences. If you enjoy the bold and distinct taste of instant coffee, then the NESCAFE Original Instant Coffee Granules is a great pick. But if you prefer a milder option whose taste is close to brewing real coffee beans, go for the Nescafe Gold Blend Instant Coffee or the TrueStart barista Grade Instant Coffee.

Why is Instant Coffee So Popular in the UK? 

Instant coffee is popular in the UK for its convenience. It is so much faster and easier to make. Simply mix a cup of hot water and a teaspoon of coffee granules. That’s it. You’ll have your coffee.

Why is Instant Coffee So Expensive?

If you compare the price of a jar of instant coffee to that of coffee beans, of course, that of the instant coffee will be significantly higher. But that would be a wrong approach to comparing the two.

Remember that a lot of work is put into the making of instant coffee. The process begins from brewing to the final cooling and drying stage. You’ll enjoy the convenience of making coffee whenever and wherever you wish. Plus, you’ll need zero tools to prepare it.

Brewing coffee beans, on the other hand, will require time. You may need a coffee grinder and a coffee maker, which, of course, are expensive gadgets to attain. Judging by the above, you and I can agree that the cost of instant coffee and coffee beans is about the same.

Best Instant Coffee UK Brands

  •  NESCAFE is the most popular coffee brand, not only in the UK, but it has spread its wing to the entire world in over 180 countries. It has been in existence since 1938 and has since developed countless coffee products to suit every consumer’s needs.
  • TrueStart is among the fastest-growing coffee brand in the UK. Consumers love it for their premium coffees, made from 100% Arabica coffee, which gives superior quality coffee.
  • Kenco is the coffee Legend. The company was formed in 1923. Thus, it has refined the art of making the best tasting coffee possible. Its beans are sourced from all over the world.

So...Which Best Instant Coffee UK Should I Buy?

The choice of the best instant coffee UK to add to your cart boils down to your preferences. Do you like your coffee bold or mild? Dark, light, or medium roast? Choose one that rhymes with your taste buds. You can do this by sampling a few of the best instant coffee UK available in the market today. Or if time isn’t by your side, reading online instant coffee reviews UK, like this one, can come in very handy.

Are you confused about what to choose? Our top choice of the best instant coffee UK for that morning energy kick is the NESCAFE Original Instant Coffee. 

Last update on 2022-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

But if you’re looking for a sweeter option, try the Nescafe Gold Blend Instant Coffee. The Beanies Flavoured Instant Coffee, on the other hand, is best for those who love flavoured coffee. You can select six of your best flavours from a whopping 38.

Last update on 2022-06-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you’re thinking of upgrading your cup of Joe, then check out our guide to the best coffee beans UK.

Hannah

Hannah is an extremely well-experienced home product tester. She has been crafting product roundups and other informational articles for over five years. As a mother of one who loves her work’s freedom, Hannah dedicates most of her day to freelance writing. Hannah loves to spend time with her family in her free time, read, hike, or Netflix and chill.