If there’s one ritual I never tire of, it’s a steaming cup of coffee finished with a touch of cream, a dusting of cinnamon, and a spoonful of gelatin — ideally enjoyed alongside a big paleo cinnamon roll. Yes, you read that right: I enjoy gelatin in my coffee. It sounds unusual at first, but it’s a simple, nourishing way to add collagen and body to your morning beverage.
I used to make bone broth regularly, but life got busy and I fell out of the habit. I wanted an easy, no-fuss method to keep gelatin in my diet, so I started researching quick options. That’s when I discovered many people stir gelatin straight into coffee and tea. I was skeptical at first — gelatin can go wrong and produce strange textures or flavors if not prepared correctly — but when balanced with the right amounts of liquid and dairy, it dissolves smoothly and adds a velvety richness without any odd aftertaste.
This month, Dunkin Donuts is running a Mug Up contest that highlights mugs and moments people love. The promotion invites participants to celebrate the simple pleasures of coffee and favorite mugs. To enter, people are asked to upload an image to social media with the contest hashtag or to submit an entry through the contest page. Prizes include a year’s supply of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee, a $250 VISA® gift card, and a Dunkin’ Donuts mug. If you’re proud of your morning routine or have a beloved mug you want to show off, this is a fun way to share it.
If you’re thinking about a mug upgrade, I sell a few designs in my shop. But regardless of which cup you use, this gelatin coffee is straightforward and fast. The first sip will likely make you wonder why you didn’t try it sooner. It adds a satisfying mouthfeel and gentle body that transforms an ordinary cup into something cozy and decadent.
Coffee with Gelatin
Author: Kelly Bejelly @ A Girl Worth Saving
Prep time: 2 mins
Cook time: 5 mins
Total time: 7 mins
Serves: 1
Ingredients
1 cup boiling water
1 tbsp ground coffee
1/2 cup half-and-half (or milk of choice)
1 tsp gelatin (unflavored)
Optional: pinch of cinnamon, sweetener to taste
Instructions
1. In a French press (or pour-over), combine the ground coffee and boiling water. Let it steep for about 5 minutes, then press or strain.
2. While the coffee steeps, warm the half-and-half in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir in the gelatin and a pinch of cinnamon, if using. Whisk constantly until the gelatin is fully dissolved and the mixture is warm but not boiling, about 2–3 minutes.
3. Pour the brewed coffee into a mug, then gently add the warm, gelatin-enriched half-and-half. Stir briefly to combine. Taste and add sweetener if desired. Enjoy immediately for a silky, comforting cup.
A few practical tips: use unflavored gelatin so it won’t interfere with the taste of your coffee. If you prefer non-dairy options, powdered collagen or gelatin alternatives designed for vegans can be substituted, though textures may vary. If the half-and-half cools too quickly, the gelatin can thicken — keep it warm enough to stay fluid until it’s mixed into the coffee.
Beyond flavor and texture, gelatin adds nutritional value. It’s a convenient way to introduce collagen-supporting amino acids into your routine without spending hours making bone broth. Many people notice benefits for skin, hair, nails, and joint comfort over time, though results vary by person.
If you’re entering the Mug Up contest, consider capturing a cozy moment: your favorite mug, a steaming cup of gelatin coffee, and a peaceful corner of your kitchen. Share what you love about your coffee ritual and why your mug matters to you. Contests like these are a cheerful reminder to celebrate small daily pleasures.
This conversation was created by me on behalf of Dunkin’ Donuts. The opinions and text are my own.