Coffee’s natural acidity gives it a bright, vibrant taste, but for some people, too much acidity can cause stomach discomfort, acid reflux, or an overly sharp flavor. Fortunately, you can reduce coffee’s acidity without sacrificing its taste by adjusting your brewing method, coffee selection, and preparation techniques.
If you love coffee but want a smoother, less acidic experience, this guide will help you discover practical ways to lower acidity while keeping the rich, delicious flavors intact.
1. Choose Low-Acidity Coffee Beans
The type of coffee beans you use plays a huge role in acidity levels. Some coffee-growing regions naturally produce less acidic coffee, while others are known for their bright, tangy flavors.
Best Low-Acidity Coffee Origins
✅ Brazil – Naturally smooth with nutty, chocolatey notes.
✅ Sumatra (Indonesia) – Full-bodied, earthy, and low in acidity.
✅ Guatemala – Balanced, rich, and slightly lower in acidity than African coffees.
✅ Honduras – Sweet, mild, and less acidic.
Avoid high-altitude African coffees (like Ethiopian and Kenyan), as they tend to have higher acidity and citrusy flavors.
2. Opt for a Darker Roast
The roast level significantly impacts a coffee’s acidity.
☕ Light Roast – Bright, acidic, and fruity.
☕ Medium Roast – Balanced acidity with caramel and nutty notes.
☕ Dark Roast – Bold, rich, and low in acidity.
If you find coffee too acidic, switch to a medium or dark roast, as the extended roasting process reduces the acidity while enhancing smooth, chocolatey flavors.
3. Try Cold Brew Instead of Hot Brew
Cold brew coffee is one of the best ways to enjoy coffee without excessive acidity. The cold extraction process reduces acid levels by up to 70% while keeping the coffee smooth and naturally sweet.
How to Make Cold Brew Coffee
1️⃣ Use coarsely ground coffee (dark or medium roast works best).
2️⃣ Combine 1 cup of coffee grounds with 4 cups of cold water.
3️⃣ Let it steep in the fridge for 12–24 hours.
4️⃣ Strain and serve over ice or with milk.
Cold brew is less bitter and acidic than hot coffee, making it ideal for those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs.
4. Use a Coarser Grind
The finer your coffee grounds, the faster the extraction, which can lead to higher acidity. Switching to a coarser grind slows down the extraction process, producing a milder and less acidic cup.
For French press, cold brew, or drip coffee makers, use a coarse or medium-coarse grind to minimize acidity and bitterness.
5. Adjust Your Brewing Method
Certain brewing methods extract more acidity than others.
- Best low-acid methods: Cold brew, French press, AeroPress (longer steep time).
- Higher-acid methods: Pour-over, espresso, Moka pot.
If you find pour-over or espresso too acidic, try switching to French press or cold brew, which result in smoother, less acidic coffee.
6. Add a Pinch of Baking Soda
Baking soda is alkaline, which helps neutralize the acidity in coffee without affecting its flavor.
How to Use Baking Soda in Coffee
✅ Add ⅛ teaspoon (a small pinch) of baking soda to your coffee grounds before brewing.
✅ Stir well if adding it directly to brewed coffee.
✅ Works best for drip coffee, French press, or cold brew.
This simple trick can reduce acidity and bitterness, making coffee gentler on your stomach.
7. Brew With Alkaline or Filtered Water
The water you use impacts your coffee’s acidity and flavor. Tap water can sometimes be acidic, so using alkaline or mineral-rich filtered water can help balance the coffee’s acidity naturally.
If you have a water filter, check if it removes excessive minerals. Balanced mineral content enhances smoothness and sweetness in coffee.
8. Add Milk or Plant-Based Alternatives
Milk and dairy alternatives can neutralize acidity and create a smoother, creamier coffee experience.
- Dairy Milk – Naturally contains calcium, which helps reduce acidity.
- Oat Milk – A great plant-based option that complements coffee’s texture.
- Almond Milk – Mildly reduces acidity while adding nutty flavors.
Avoid soy milk, as it can curdle when mixed with acidic coffee.
9. Use Eggshells to Reduce Acidity
Eggshells are alkaline and help neutralize acidic compounds in coffee.
How to Use Eggshells in Coffee
1️⃣ Rinse and crush clean eggshells.
2️⃣ Add a few pieces to your coffee grounds before brewing.
3️⃣ Brew as usual.
This method softens coffee’s acidity and enhances its smoothness.
10. Sweeten Naturally With Cinnamon or Honey
Instead of using sugar, try cinnamon or honey to naturally balance acidity and enhance sweetness.
✔ Cinnamon adds warmth and richness while reducing acidity.
✔ Honey provides a natural sweetness that smooths out sharp flavors.
Final Thoughts: Enjoying Low-Acid Coffee Without Sacrificing Flavor
Reducing coffee acidity doesn’t mean losing flavor. By choosing low-acid beans, adjusting your roast level, changing your brewing method, and adding alkaline ingredients, you can enjoy smooth, flavorful coffee without stomach discomfort.
Next time you brew coffee, try one of these tips and see the difference for yourself! Do you have a favorite method for reducing coffee acidity? Let me know in the comments! ☕😊