You’d think ordering a cup of coffee would be pretty straightforward. Some people like it black, others add a little cream and sugar, and some prefer something that tastes more like dessert than coffee.
Apparently, people have some pretty strong opinions about how others take their coffee.
A new survey by Talker Research found that one in three Americans admit to judging others based on their coffee preferences. And nearly a quarter have a coffee order they’re embarrassed to admit they enjoy.
From unusual ingredients to disagreements over what counts as coffee, the findings suggest that something as simple as ordering a drink can come with surprising judgment.
Some People Are Keeping Their Coffee Orders a Secret
The survey of 1,586 U.S. coffee drinkers found that 23% keep some coffee orders secret because they worry about what others might think.
After hearing some of the combinations people enjoy, it’s easy to see why they might raise a few eyebrows.
One respondent likes adding maple syrup and peanuts to their coffee. Another starts with black tea and pours coffee on top.
Someone else prefers a double shot of espresso with caramel drizzle and cinnamon, no milk. Then there’s the person who orders blueberry and butter pecan flavors, extra cream and sugar, whipped cream, and cold foam.
Another respondent shared an order that includes double espresso, five sugars, butter, extra whipped cream, and caramel syrup.
These aren’t your typical coffee orders, but everyone has preferences. And apparently, some people would rather keep theirs to themselves.
Related: Things You Can Do With Coffee Filters Besides Brewing Coffee
Black Coffee Drinkers Are in the Minority
For anyone who believes coffee should be served plain, the survey had some interesting findings. Only 14% of respondents said they prefer drinking their coffee black.
Most people like adding something to their cup, whether it’s a little cream, sugar, or another ingredient entirely.
In fact, 35% said they prefer a little cream, while 33% like adding a little sugar. Others mentioned mixing in cinnamon, honey, caramel, marshmallows, and even salt.
There are plenty of ways to customize a cup of coffee, and these responses suggest many Americans have moved well beyond the traditional cream-and-sugar combination.
So, Is There Really a Wrong Way to Drink Coffee?
Despite what some coffee drinkers might think, there’s no single correct way to enjoy a cup. Some people are perfectly happy with plain black coffee. Others want flavored syrups, whipped cream, or enough sugar to make their drink taste like dessert.
And then there are those who apparently think peanuts or butter belong in the mix.
The survey shows Americans have plenty of opinions about what makes a good cup of coffee, and some aren’t shy about judging others’ choices.
But if you’re paying for it and enjoying it, does anyone else’s opinion really matter?
Even if your order includes five sugars and a spoonful of butter.
