What Is Instant Coffee: Everything You Need To Know

For many of you, reading the term ‘instant coffee’ just sent a shiver down your spine. In fact, you’re probably picturing a sad, bitter cup your great-uncle drank in the ‘90s. The truth is, instant coffee has come a long way, and when made correctly can be one of the boldest cups you’ve ever had.

What Is Instant Coffee, Really?

Instant coffee is coffee made from real coffee beans that have been brewed, dehydrated, and turned into dissolvable granules or powder. When you add hot water (or milk, if that’s your thing), it transforms back into liquid gold. It’s quick. It’s easy. And when it’s done right? It’s one of the boldest brews around.

Where Did Instant Coffee Come From?

Believe it or not, instant coffee has been around since the late 1700s. The first version popped up in London when resident John Dring filed a patent for his “instant” coffee, made by mixing roasted, ground coffee with butter and suet into a paste. Appetizing, right?

In 1891 the instant coffee version we now know today was created in New Zealand by David Strang, and it got a major glow-up during World War II when soldiers needed a fast, easy caffeine fix. Since then, it’s been a staple for campers, commuters, and anyone too busy to wait for a brew.

Instant Coffee vs. Ground Coffee: What’s the Difference?

Although they seem similar, instant and ground coffee are two very different things.

Let’s set the record straight:

• Ground coffee is raw, unbrewed coffee. You need a brewing method—like a drip machine, French press, or pour-over—to extract that liquid magic.
• Instant coffee is already brewed. It's been freeze-dried or spray-dried so you can skip the machine and get straight to sipping.

Bottom line: Instant is the faster, no-equipment-required version that still packs a punch—if you’re drinking the right brand.

The Best Instant Coffee on the Market

Let’s get one thing straight: not all instant coffee is created equal. What makes a good instant coffee comes down to three key things: quality beans, ethical sourcing, and a clean process. Most instant coffees cut corners with cheap, low-grade beans and harsh chemical processes that strip away flavor (and your faith in humanity).

At Death Wish, we do things differently. Our instant coffee is made with a bold blend of premium Arabica and Robusta beans—carefully selected for maximum strength and smooth flavor. But we don’t stop at taste. Our coffee is USDA Organic and Fair Trade Certified, which means no synthetic pesticides, no shady labor practices—just pure, clean caffeine that you can feel good about drinking. Every sip supports small farmers and sustainable farming practices around the globe. When you choose Death Wish Instant Coffee, you’re not only getting the smoothest cup on the shelf—you’re fueling your day with something that actually makes a difference.

If you’ve written off instant coffee as weak or boring, it’s time to rethink your routine. Instant coffee is perfect for on the go, and incredibly versatile. Drink it. Bake with it. Bring it everywhere.

Who knows? You might’ve just found your new sidekick.