A popular coffee chain from China, Luckin Coffee, has gained viral traction for its unique pineapple cold brew. After trying the drink, one New York City resident discovered a simple way to recreate the flavor at home using just two ingredients from Trader Joe’s: cold-pressed pineapple juice and medium roast coffee.
The key lies in the quality of the pineapple juice. Trader Joe’s cold-pressed variety delivers a naturally sweet and fresh taste without any additives, making it ideal for mixing with coffee. The medium roast arabica ground coffee complements the pineapple, offering a smooth, low-acidity base that balances the sweetness.
How to Make Pineapple Cold Brew
The recipe is straightforward:
- Brew coffee using your preferred method (cold brew or French press work well).
- Combine 4 ounces of chilled coffee with 4 ounces of pineapple juice over ice.
- Adjust sweetness with additional pineapple juice if desired.
The result is a refreshing, tropical-flavored coffee that rivals the original Luckin Coffee beverage.
Why This Matters
The trend towards unique coffee flavors is driven by consumers seeking bolder, more interesting experiences. Pineapple cold brew exemplifies this: it’s an unexpected pairing that works surprisingly well. The combination challenges conventional coffee tastes and highlights how natural sweetness can replace refined sugars. The simplicity of this recipe makes it accessible to anyone looking to elevate their daily coffee routine without complex ingredients or techniques.
The success of this simple recipe points to a broader trend: consumers are increasingly willing to experiment with unconventional flavors in their beverages.
The cost-effectiveness (Trader Joe’s pineapple juice at $3.49 for 12 ounces) also makes it an attractive alternative to expensive specialty coffee drinks. If you’re looking for an easy, flavorful coffee upgrade, this pineapple cold brew is worth a try.
