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10 Best Instant Coffee Brands to Keep on Hand for Busy Mornings

Get your caffeine fix without the wait. ☕

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instant coffee with white mug

Every item on this page was chosen by an editor from The Pioneer Woman. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

"I wouldn't want to live in a world without coffee," Ree Drummond says—and it's true! A quick cup of coffee can make a huge difference in your day. Some people enjoy their coffee freshly brewed while others prefer it over ice (Ree is a fan of cold brewing her coffee). Then, there's those who would rather take their time for a cup of pour-over coffee or a brew with fresh grounds from their coffee machine. Of course, there's always the option of going to your local coffee shop. But if you're in a rush and you don't want to splurge on an expensive barista-brewed coffee, the answer is simple: reach for these best instant coffees! Sure, it has a bad rap for being a last resort when it comes to getting your jolt of caffeine. But did you know that instant coffee has come a long way from when it was first revolutionized back in the early 1900's?

Today, there are tons of instant coffee brands that are anything but boring. From light, medium, and dark roasts to flavored coffees and even decaf—this list of innovative brands will change the way you enjoy your morning brew! Here, you'll find distinct blends from specialty roasters, cold brew concentrate, and creative packaging like a single-serve coffee that comes in a tea bag. There's even an option for instant coffee subscriptions. Just add water, your favorite coffee mix-ins (like creamer, sugar, or one of these coffee hacks for additional flavor)—don't forget your travel coffee mug—and you're good to go!

1
Best Overall

Joe Coffee Specialty Instant Coffee Packets

Joe Coffee Specialty Instant Coffee Packets
Credit: Amazon

This craft coffee is roasted, brewed, and dehydrated in small batches and you can really taste the difference. The instant coffee is just as delicious as a cup of joe from a coffee shop. It's easy to drink and even easier to make. Now that's a win-win!

2
Best Single-Serve

Steeped Coffee California Blend Medium Roast

Steeped Coffee California Blend Medium Roast
Now 10% Off
Credit: Steeped Coffee

No, that's not Chamomile you're seeing— this brand uses tea bags to package their instant coffee for an innovative, easy-to-make cup that's perfect for anyone on the go. The medium blend is nicely balanced but the brand also makes light and dark roasts, too.

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3
Best Medium Roast

Waka Quality Instant Coffee — Medium Roast

Waka Quality Instant Coffee — Medium Roast
Credit: Amazon

This single-origin coffee is made from 100% Arabica beans which gives it a smooth, complex flavor that tastes just like a fresh brew. Add a splash of cream and you'll never know the difference.

4
Best Dark Roast

Starbucks VIA French Roast Coffee

Starbucks VIA French Roast Coffee
Now 28% Off
Credit: Walmart

You don't need to wait in line to get a taste of this popular coffee. Starbucks came out with instant coffee packets that have the same strong flavor as their in-store variety. Best of all— it's cheaper than the fancy barista brewed coffee!

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5
Best Light Roast

Nescafé Taster's Choice House Blend

Nescafé Taster's Choice House Blend
Credit: Walmart

This coffee is refreshingly lighter than some of the others on the list but it's still full of flavor. Plus, with up to 105 cups of coffee for under $10, you really get a bang for your buck.

6
Best Espresso-Style

Café Bustelo Espresso Style Instant Coffee

Café Bustelo Espresso Style Instant Coffee
Credit: Walmart

Strong, rich, and full of Latin-inspired espresso flavor— this popular brand is perfect for anyone who likes their coffee to pack a punch. You can also use it to make at-home lattes or cappuccinos.

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7
Best Flavored Instant Coffee

Cusa Coffee Vanilla Dark Roast

Cusa Coffee Vanilla Dark Roast
Credit: Amazon

Can't decide between hot coffee or iced? Don't worry! This brand can easily make both. The smooth dark roast coffee is combined with Madagascar vanilla beans for a flavorful coffee with a subtle sweetness.

8
Best Monthly Subscription

Swift Cup Coffee Mainstay Blend - Subscription

Swift Cup Coffee Mainstay Blend - Subscription
Credit: Swift Cup Coffee

This brand is dedicated to making instant coffees— all of which are high quality and ethically sourced. Their subscription program is fully customizable and it ensures that you'll never run out of coffee again!

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9
Best Decaf

Mount Hagen Organic Instant Decaffeinated Coffee

Mount Hagen Organic Instant Decaffeinated Coffee
Credit: Amazon

With over 1,000 positive reviews on Amazon and convenient travel packets for on-the-go, Mount Hagen coffee is a reliable choice. It was one of the first instant coffee brands to be certified organic and Fair Trade, plus it has an all-around great flavor.

10
Best for Cold Brew

Jot Ultra Coffee

Jot Ultra Coffee
Credit: Jot

Unlike other instant coffees on this list, Jot's coffee concentrate comes in liquid form. It's very strong so you only need to stir a tablespoon into your liquid of choice. It can be used for a hot cup of joe but we especially like it as a quick alternative to cold brew.

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