Look, as coffee fans, we love a creamy, caffeinated shot of espresso at any time of the day. Even when we crave a delicious espresso drink, it’s not always the right time to consume more caffeine. Whether you’re looking to cut back on your caffeine consumption or you’re particularly sensitive to regular espresso blends, there are tons of reasons why decaf espresso might be the option for you.
At a Glance: Our Top 5 Picks for Best Decaf Espresso Beans
But how do you find a delicious espresso roast without the caffeine? Though many coffee drinkers swear by their favorite blends, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to the perfect cup of joe.
That said, some artisan coffee roasters are starting to take on the challenge of creating delicious decaf espresso blends. With careful consideration for flavor and texture, these roasters can produce beans just as delicious and smooth as their non-decaf counterparts.
Quick Summary: Best Decaf Espresso Beans
 | Our Top Choice Lifeboost Medium Roast Decaf |
| Check On Lifeboost→ |
 | Temple Decaf Espresso Blend |
| Check Price→ |
 | Novo Decaf Espresso |
| Check Price→ |
 | Equator Coffees Decaf Eye of the Tiger Espresso |
| Check Price→ |
 | Organic Coffee Co. Decaf Hurricane Espresso |
| Check on Amazon → |
 | Kicking Horse Coffee Decaf |
| Check on Amazon → |
 | SAN FRANCISCO BAY COFFEE DECAF ESPRESSO ROAST |
| Check on Amazon → |
 | ALLEGRO COFFEE DECAF ORGANIC ESPRESSO BEL CANTO WHOLE BEAN |
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 | COFFEE BEAN DIRECT CO2 DECAF ESPRESSO COFFEE |
| Check on Amazon → |
 | VOLCANICA ESPRESSO DECAF COFFEE |
| Check on Amazon → |
 | LAVAZZA DEK WHOLE BEAN COFFEE BLEND |
| Check on Amazon → |
Lifeboost Medium Roast Decaf
Lifeboost Medium Roast Decaf
Freshly roasted from our roaster to your door! Non-GMO, Organically grown, Pesticide free, Low acid, Shade grown, Specialty beans!
Lifeboost has a mission to give you the healthiest coffee you’ve ever had, and they do their best to deliver. Their beans are non-GMO, chemical-free, fair-trade, and single-origin (not to mention delicious).
This coffee is roasted to order with a smooth flavor and low acidity that you’re bound to enjoy. And you can drink it with a free conscience, knowing that your purchase goes to supporting the wildlife and environment where Lifeboost coffee is sourced. What’s not to love?
Things We Like:
- Lifeboost decaf beans are made with the Swiss Water Process, so they’re chemical-free.
- A portion of the proceeds from your purchase goes towards paying growers a fair wage and sustaining the environment.
- These beans are organically-grown, shade-grown, and low acid.
Things We Don’t Like:
- This medium roast blend doesn’t have the depth and nuance that you might get from the Lifeboost dark roast coffee blends.
- This coffee leaves more residue in the cup than you’d expect.
Temple Decaf Espresso Blend
Temple Decaf Espresso Blend
This decaf has it all going on. A farm-to-table cup, a low carbon footprint, and even, balanced flavor. It’s a win-win-win.
If we could sum up this decaf offering from Temple Coffee in one word, it would be “classic.” No frills, no gimmicks, just quality decaf espresso, fresh roasted and ready for you to enjoy. With a lingering hint of sweetness at the end of your sip, this coffee is perfect for those looking for full-bodied flavor and quality. Notes of chocolate, honey, and pecan permeate the cup and make your tastebuds sing!
Things We Like:
- This coffee has a smooth and balanced flavor profile, and those looking for a milder espresso will love it.
- The aroma of the coffee is strong, nutty, and sweet, giving a massive boost to the coffee’s overall experience.
- While it’s not the best for Chemex or pour-over brews, it’s excellent as an espresso when added to lattes, cappuccinos, and macchiatos.
Things We Don’t Like:
- The flavor is somewhat basic and subtle, which may not please those looking for a bolder, more intense taste.
- There’s no indication that Temple uses the Swiss Water Process to make their decaf espresso.
- Some coffee lovers might find this blend a bit too heavy and dark, with an almost burnt taste.
Novo Decaf Espresso
Novo Decaf Espresso
For those late-night cortado cravings – a depth of flavor that stands up to milk as well as it stands up to decaf-naysayers.
If you want a flavorful and smooth late-night espresso fix without the caffeine kick, the decaf espresso blend from Novo may be just what you’re looking for. Notes of brown sugar and florals make this espresso flavorful but not too heavy.
And it’s not just delicious on its own—Novo’s decaf offering cuts through milk’s mild taste to give you a bold and flavorful cup, no matter how you choose to serve your espresso!
Things We Like:
- You’re not compromising flavor when going decaf; there’s no difference in taste or intensity between this option and regular espresso.
- The sweet and syrupy brown sugar and caramel notes make this decaf espresso a perfect after-dinner treat.
- Novo’s decaf espresso is fresh-roasted to order, so you know you’re receiving the freshest beans possible.
- Novo uses the Swiss Water Process to make their decaf beans, meaning you get a chemical-free cup of coffee.
Things We Don’t Like:
- The beans are relatively pricey, with little to make them stand out compared to other options.
- Some may find the medium-light roast a bit acidic for their liking.
Equator Decaf Eye of the Tiger
Equator Coffees Decaf Eye of the Tiger Espresso
This delicious decaf is loaded with flavor – we’re tasting juicy cherry acidity, plenty of brown sugar sweetness, and syrupy plum note on the finish. Pure delight as espresso or filter alike.
If you’re looking for an indulgent and sweet espresso blend that gives you all the richness you crave without the bitterness, then this espresso is definitely worth a second look. With sweet notes like chocolate and brown sugar, as well as fruity and nutty undertones, there’s something about this espresso that feels absolutely decadent.
Things We Like:
- The beans are roasted fresh and reach your door in one to two business days, which means you’re getting delicious and fresh flavors.
- It produces a smooth and enjoyable espresso shot with very little bitterness.
- The nutty and chocolate flavor notes are great on their own but pair beautifully with milk in drinks like lattes.
Things We Don’t Like:
- The citrus notes can be a bit overpowering, and some drinkers may notice a light acidity.
- The roast level is a bit darker than we’d like for espresso.
- Some drinkers may find the flavors are a little underwhelming and one-dimensional.
Organic Coffee Co. Decaf Hurricane Espresso
What we love about the Decaf Hurricane Espresso option from Organic Coffee Co. is that it gives you everything you’re looking for; freshness, taste, simplicity, quality, and value, all in one place.
Their whole bean coffee is 100% certified organic and made with the Swiss Water Process, so you get an excellent, chemical-free cup every time. Organic Coffee Co. also notes that its beans are suitable for all kinds of brewing methods, not just espresso. So, their beans are delicious, versatile, and a great value.
Things We Like:
- The espresso produced with these beans is bold and dark but without a burnt or bitter taste.
- These beans provide excellent quality and value for the price.
- Organic Coffee Co. uses the Swiss Water Process to decaffeinate their coffee beans.
Things We Don’t Like:
- The packaging is not convenient; there is no good way to reseal the package once it’s been cut open, so you’ll have to find an airtight container to keep the beans in.
- Coffee drinkers especially sensitive to caffeine might still feel the effects, even with the decaf beans.
- The flavor profile is not as rich or deep as we’d like.
Kicking Horse Coffee Decaf
Do you want ethical, sustainable, organic, and intensely delicious coffee? Make no mistake; these beans are for people who want a deep, dark flavor. This coffee is no-frills and all business; just amazing quality, taste, and a long-lasting finish. Chocolate and roasted hazelnuts give Kicking Horse’s decaf espresso a slightly sweet and mellow finish that stays with you after your last sip.
Things We Like:
- These beans are low acidity and have a mellow aftertaste; While there’s a little bit of bitterness, it’s balanced by the sweet and nutty notes of chocolate and hazelnuts.
- These beans are made with the Swiss Water Process and are certified organic, fair-trade, kosher, and shade grown. You know you’re getting quality with this coffee!
Things We Don’t Like:
- Those who don’t like dark roasts will definitely not enjoy this coffee; it’s a deep and dark flavor with a slight bitterness.
- These beans have occasional quality control issues, such as rocks in the bag.
San Francisco Bay Coffee Decaf Espresso
If you prefer your beans with a fresh, bold flavor (and really, who doesn’t?), then San Fransisco Bay’s line of decaf espresso beans is worth a look. The company is family-owned and based in the United States and committed to quality and freshness. The best part about their decaf espresso option? The authentic coffee taste! San Francisco Bay’s coffee is a mile away from the bland and weak decaf coffee you may be used to drinking.
Things We Like:
- The medium roast decaf option is perfect for mochas, lattes, and cappuccinos, primarily due to its smokey and chocolatey flavor notes!
- San Francisco Bay’s coffee is sourced from 100% Arabica coffee beans, an overall healthier decaf option than robusta.
- These beans are decaffeinated using the all-natural Swiss Water Decaffeination Process decaffeination method for a chemical-free cup!
Things We Don’t Like:
- The beans may leave an oily residue in your grinder or machine, which can clog them up if left untreated. So when brewing with these beans, pay careful attention to your machine and grinder!
- The medium roast is much darker than you may prefer, so it’s best for those who enjoy a dark roast cup of espresso.
- It’s on the expensive side compared to standard decaf coffee.
Allegro Coffee Decaf Espresso Bel Canto
If you’re looking for an affordable organic decaf ground coffee to help you cut the caffeine with as little pain as possible, consider this offering from Allegro Coffee! This decaf espresso’s bold and mellow flavor profile means that you’ll be unable to tell the difference between this and your regular espresso roast!
Things We Like:
- The price point is incredibly fair, so you don’t have to feel priced out of enjoying quality decaf espresso!
- As part of its mission, the company procures sustainably and ethically sourced organic decaf coffee beans.
- The flavor profile is deep and complex, with notes of berries and cocoa powder. The deep flavors work great in espresso drinks like lattes or cappuccinos for a wonderful coffee-sipping experience!
Things We Don’t Like:
- It may not produce the rich crema that you’re used to, so keep that in mind if crema is important to you.
- The stated expiration date may be much sooner than you expect, so this roast may not be the right option for you if you don’t go through a bag of coffee quickly.
Coffee Bean Direct CO2 Decaf Espresso Coffee
If you like your morning routine as simple as possible and want a straightforward coffee to get you there, this is it! Coffee Bean Direct focuses on delivering quality and flavorful coffee decaffeinated with CO2. Nothing more, nothing less. With an intriguing and bittersweet dark chocolate flavor profile, it’s sure to start your morning off on the right foot!
Things We Like:
- This roast produces an excellent moderate crema that doesn’t overwhelm or ruin the smooth texture of the espresso.
- It’s reasonably priced for the quality of the beans, meaning you don’t have to pay through the nose for the pleasant experience of comforting coffee flavor and aroma!
Things We Don’t Like:
- The quality and taste can sometimes be inconsistent from bag to bag, so you may not have the same results with repeat purchases.
- The price point is a bit high, so it may be difficult to justify the extra cost against the competition.
Volcanica Espresso Decaf Coffee
If you’re the type of coffee lover who wants to know their high-quality coffee was grown right, this may be the brand for you! Volcanica takes great care to source coffees grown at an elevation of over 3,000 feet in volcanic soil for the boldest flavors around. This espresso decaf is rich and dark, without that signature burnt and bitter decaf taste.
Things We Like:
- These beans are naturally decaffeinated using the Swiss Water Process and sourced responsibly from local co-ops around the globe.
- This decaf has a rich, dark roast without the acidity or bitter “burnt” taste you may associate with decaf.
- These specialty grade coffee beans are best ground very fine, which isn’t a problem; they grind smooth and fine in a standard burr grinder!
Things We Don’t Like:
- The price point is on the high end, considering the quality and flavor of the beans are comparable to the competition.
Lavazza Dek Decaffeinated Dark Espresso
Are you looking for an espresso roast that’s going to give you beautiful crema and a strong, bold flavor without the jitters of caffeine? You’ve found it! This coffee is an authentic Italian espresso roast made specifically for espresso and espresso only.
Naturally processed with steam and carbon dioxide, Lavazza’s Dek decaf beans are a great go-to option for home espresso brewers that aren’t willing to sacrifice quality for affordability!
Things We Like:
- This roast is processed using the Swiss Water Process, so you know there are no chemicals or additives in your decaf cup.
- It’s a roast explicitly made to be used in an espresso coffee maker.
- It’s processed in a nut-free facility, meaning it’s the perfect option for those with nut allergies who want a lovely coffee-drinking experience.
- This roast has a strong flavor and full body and works perfectly as a base for espresso drinks like cappuccinos and lattes.
Things We Don’t Like:
- There’s a lot to be desired with quality control; rocks have been found in the Italian coffee beans, so it’s important to sift through the bag before brewing to avoid damage to your coffee machine or grinder.
- This roast is on the strong and bitter side, which may not sit well with all coffee lovers. Even those who drink it black may find themselves reaching for the milk or sugar!
What You Should Know About Decaf Espresso
Decaf Espresso Beans vs. Standard Coffee Beans
Decaf espresso beans are different from standard coffee beans in a few ways. The most obvious difference is that the decaffeination process removes caffeine from the coffee bean, so the resulting drink is caffeine-free.
Second, the taste of decaf espresso beans is slightly different from regular ones since the decaf process also removes some of the delicious coffee flavor. This is why buying a naturally processed and high-quality decaf espresso is essential; the decaffeination process used to make decaf espresso beans should not use harsh chemicals or solvents, so the beans retain all of their flavor and nutrients.
What To Look For in a Decaf Espresso Bean
When it comes to finding the best decaf espresso beans, there are a few things you need to look for. First, consider the taste and roast level of the bean. The bean should also be roasted to a dark brown color, giving it the richest flavor.
Be sure to avoid any beans that are light in color, as these will likely not have a strong flavor. A good decaf espresso blend should have the same body and acidity as a regular espresso but with less of that characteristic strong coffee bite.
The next thing to look for is quality. You want to find a bean with a consistent roast, plus positive reviews from critics and customers. Make sure that the beans are freshly roasted right before packaging since that will cause them to last longer before going stale.
Finally, it’s always preferred that a decaf espresso roast be processed using an all-natural method like the Swiss Water Process, ensuring that your decaf is chemical-free!
How to Brew Decaf Beans for the Best Espresso
The biggest thing to remember when brewing decaf espresso is to use a coffee bean that is specifically designed for espresso. Regular decaf beans will not produce the same flavor or crema as an espresso-specific bean.
Once you have the right beans, grind them finely and tamp them down firmly. Make sure your water is heated to the correct temperature (195-205 degrees Fahrenheit), and use about 20-25 grams of coffee for every ounce of water.
Coffee preparation is a process that takes some time and effort to perfect. The temperature and brewing time you use can make a big difference in the flavor and feel of your finished product on your taste buds. If you use too much water or brew for too long, your espresso will taste sour and have a weak flavor.
On the other hand, if you use too little water or brew for too short a time, your espresso will taste bitter and have a strong flavor.
What Makes Certain Coffee Beans Right for Espresso?
To make espresso, you need coffee beans roasted specifically for espresso. The roast is crucial because it determines the flavor of the coffee. Different beans are better for different brewing methods.
For espresso, you need a dark roast decaf coffee that will bring out the chocolate and caramel flavors in the coffee. The beans should be roasted until they are almost black. This roasting will create a strong flavor that can stand up to the added milk and sugar.
You should also take the kind of beans you’re using into consideration. When it comes to espresso, there are two main types of coffee beans: arabica and robusta. Arabica beans are the more popular of the two and are used in most espresso blends. While robusta beans are commonly used in decaf coffee, it’s a good idea to stick to arabica due to the superior taste.
FAQ’s
Does decaf espresso still have some caffeine?
Yep, even when espresso has been decaffeinated, there will still be a not-insignificant amount of caffeine present in your decaf coffee cup. According to Healthline, decaf coffee contains less caffeine per shot of espresso than regular coffee, but it’s still enough for someone sensitive to caffeine to feel its effects.
Who should buy decaf espresso beans?
There are so many reasons why you may feel the need to cut back on caffeine, but that doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice the warm and comforting taste of amazing espresso!
Whether you’re pregnant and keeping your daily caffeine intake to a minimum, or you’re struggling with insomnia and looking to fix that sleep schedule, you should consider switching to a decaf espresso. If you enjoy a shot of espresso in the evening but don’t want the nighttime jitters, this is a great alternative!
Are there any downsides to decaf espresso?
For one, you simply won’t have the energy boost that you expect from your regular shot of espresso since the caffeine has been greatly reduced (but that’s kind of the point, right?). If you enjoy the boost of energy you get from espresso, then decaf isn’t your best bet.
While there’s no scientific evidence to back this up, many typical coffee drinkers may feel that the taste of their espresso suffers when switching to decaffeinated coffee beans. The trick here is to research the myriad of options and find the right blend that will still deliver on taste, regardless of caffeine content!
Conclusion
We hope this list has given you a place to start when choosing your new go-to decaf espresso coffee beans! When you’re looking to purchase decaffeinated coffee, it’s so important to look for a balance between price, quality, and flavor. Choose decaf espresso options that are naturally processed and roasted fresh before packaging for the best results!
While we’d recommend any of these coffees for your home espresso, our overall favorite pick for the best decaffeinated coffee is the Lavazza Dek decaf espresso. Not only is it explicitly made to be used in an espresso maker (not every coffee can say that!), it’s made by a trusted Italian coffee brand that’s been in business for well over 100 years.
Some quality control issues aside, you can’t go wrong with this excellent option, whether you’re a seasoned barista or new to the coffee scene!
Making the switch to decaf can feel daunting at first, but it doesn’t have to be! There’s a lot to learn about decaf coffee beans, so if you’re still curious, be sure to do a bit more reading up on its pros and cons, as well as the benefits of natural decaffeination processes.
Happy (de)Caffeinating!
