What Is Bulletproof Coffee? Benefits, Recipe & Risks

Bulletproof Coffee is a high-calorie coffee drink blended with:

• Freshly brewed coffee (ideally high-quality, Organic beans)
• Unsalted grass-fed butter (or ghee)
• MCT oil (medium-chain triglycerides, often derived from coconut oil)

Whipped together in a blender, these ingredients create a frothy, latte-like drink that’s rich, creamy, and designed to provide long-lasting energy without the crash as the fats help slow the absorption of caffeine by the body. 

Let’s Get Brewing - Origins Story

Bulletproof Coffee was popularized by Dave Asprey, founder of the Bulletproof brand, who claimed that the drink boosted his mental clarity, focus, and performance. While the brand name is trademarked, the concept has spread, and now you’ll hear “bulletproof coffee” used generically to describe this butter-and-oil-based coffee blend.

Why Butter and Oil in Coffee?

Butter and coconut oil may not be the first things you think of adding to your brew, but it actually seems reasonable when considering -

1. Sustained Energy – The healthy fats in butter and MCT oil slow the absorption of caffeine, preventing a crash following too much caffeine too quickly.
2. Ketosis Support – For people following a ketogenic (low-carb, high-fat) diet, Bulletproof Coffee helps keep the body in fat-burning mode.
3. Brain Power – MCT oil is quickly converted into ketones, which some research suggests may provide the brain with a steadier fuel than glucose or other sugars.
4. Feeling Full – The high fat content can help keep you full for hours, helpful at times, but far from a complete meal replacement as it lacks protein, carbohydrates and added nutrients.  For someone practicing intermittent fasting however, this may be beneficial. 

How to Make Bulletproof Coffee

Here’s a simple recipe if you’re looking to give it a run -

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of freshly brewed Organic, Fairtrade coffee
• 1–2 tablespoons of unsalted, grass-fed butter (or ghee for lactose-free choice)
• 1 tablespoon of MCT oil (start small—too much can upset your stomach, coconut oil is often used).

Instructions:

1. Brew your coffee as you normally would. French press, pour-over, or drip all work well; dealer’s choice!
2. Add the butter and MCT oil to your blender.
3. Pour in the hot coffee.
4. Blend on high for 30 seconds until the drink looks frothy and creamy.
5. Pour into your favorite mug and enjoy!

👉 Pro tip: Always blend—don’t just stir. I tried just stirring it to see what would happen, not great.  Took a bit for the butter to dissolve and fully mingle with the coffee.  Likewise, the oil will create kind of a slick on the surface of the coffee.  Give the blender a go!

The Health Benefits of Bulletproof Coffee

Scientific support may be mixed for this drink, but followers of it report several benefits -

1. Steady Energy Without the Crash

The combination of caffeine and healthy fats provides a slower, sustained release of energy without the crash; helpful for long mornings, creative work, or workouts.

2. Supports Ketogenic Diets

Bulletproof Coffee is virtually carb-free but packed with fats, making it keto-friendly. It can help you stay in ketosis and burn fat for fuel.  Again, very specific to someone’s dietary preferences. 

3. May Improve Mental Focus

Some research suggests that ketones (produced by metabolizing MCT oil) can provide the brain with an alternative fuel source, this may help with clarity and focus. 

4. Reduces Hunger and Cravings

Because it’s rich in fat, Bulletproof Coffee can keep you full for hours, helping reduce snacking and overeating.

Potential Downsides of Bulletproof Coffee

Bulletproof Coffee isn’t perfect for everyone. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• High in Calories – Sure, you’re adding butter and oil to coffee; there’s going to be calories; usually close to 250–400 calories, mostly from fat. If bullet proof coffee becomes an extra snack instead of a substitute, you’re likely to gain weight from the extra calories. 
• Lacks Nutrients – While it delivers fat and caffeine, Bulletproof Coffee doesn’t provide protein, fiber, or many vitamins. Again, a snack substitute, but not a replacement for an awesome breakfast full of essential nutrients and protein, carbs and fat. 
• Digestive Issues – MCT oil can cause stomach upset, especially if you start with too much too quickly. Try a teaspoon and work up from there. 

Bulletproof Coffee vs. Regular Coffee

You might be wondering: how is Bulletproof Coffee different from your regular cup of Organic, Fairtrade joe?

Who Should Drink Bulletproof Coffee?

Bulletproof Coffee might be a good fit if you:

• Follow a keto or low-carb lifestyle
• Practice intermittent fasting and want to extend feeling full to stave off hunger.
• Want to try a slower absorption of caffeine without the possible crash of regular coffee.
• Prefer replacing breakfast with a high-fat drink

Variations on Bulletproof Coffee

We’re not building a rocket ship here, just like regular coffee, bullet proof coffee has some variations for taste and fun -

1. Cinnamon Bulletproof Coffee – One of those, the name explains it situations, add a little cinnamon. 
2. Mocha Bulletproof Coffee – Blend in unsweetened cacao powder for a chocolatey twist.
3. Vanilla Bulletproof Coffee – A splash of vanilla extract makes it taste like dessert.  If you like vanilla, which is an often underrated flavor! Personal opinion…
4. Collagen Bulletproof Coffee – Add collagen peptides for protein and joint support.
5. Plant-Based Bulletproof Coffee – Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan ghee.

Is Bulletproof Coffee Right for You?

Like most things in nutrition and life, the answer depends on your goals:

• Want to burn fat, stay in ketosis, or power through fasting? Bulletproof Coffee may help.
• Want a light, balanced morning meal? You may prefer pairing black coffee with oatmeal, fruit, or eggs or whatever breakfast food makes the sun rise in your world. 

Either way, the most important factor is the quality of your coffee beans. Choosing Organic, Fairtrade, toxin-free coffee ensures your brew is not only delicious but also free of contaminants that could drag down your energy and focus.

Quick FAQ on Bulletproof Coffee

Q: Can I drink Bulletproof Coffee every day?
Yes, but make sure it fits your calorie and nutrient needs.

Q: Does Bulletproof Coffee help with weight loss?
It may support fat loss if used with keto or fasting, but it’s high in calories—so part control matters.  Think substitute instead of add-on. 

Q: Can I add sugar?
Adding sugar defeats the purpose. Stick to natural flavors like cinnamon or vanilla.

Q: Is it safe?
For most healthy adults, yes. If you have health concerns (cholesterol, digestive issues), consult your doctor.

Final Sips

So, what is Bulletproof Coffee? It’s a frothy, high-fat coffee drink designed to deliver sustained energy, mental clarity, and support for ketogenic and fasting lifestyles.

For some, it’s a game-changer that replaces breakfast and fuels productivity. For others, it’s a fun experiment that doesn’t quite fit their daily routine.

Either way, the foundation of a great Bulletproof Coffee is quality coffee beans. When you start with our Organic, Fairtrade coffee roasted fresh in small batches, you’re already ahead of the game—whether you blend it with butter or just enjoy it black.  It’s a good day to have a good day!