Easy DIY Coffee Candles 

Indulge in the aroma of coffee all year round with DIY coffee candles. Discover how to make these delightful, easy-to-craft candles that transform your home into a cozy haven.

Perfect for coffee lovers and non-coffee enthusiasts alike!

Here’s my confession. DIY coffee candles are something we love burning in our home at any time of year. 

They’re fantastic in summer as, believe it or not, the scent of coffee makes an excellent insect repellent! However, I usually save these for inside the home and burn my citronella candles outdoors.

Also, in cooler months, say, Autumn and Winter, these coffee candles give off a wonderful homely scent that infuses each room with warm, comforting vibes.

But what if you don’t like coffee?

Will these candles be good for you? 

Well, all I’ll say is that these homemade coffee candles smell amazing – even if you dislike the coffee taste. 

And that’s because they’re made with beeswax, similar to my honey vanilla candles; you get a sweet scent when you burn them (which isn’t too overpowering.)

They’re easy to make, too, and so much fun: why not give them a go?

What are coffee candles?

Coffee candles are simply candles made with coffee, which also take on the scent of coffee. 

The coffee scent, however, is different from the taste of coffee.

Really! I know many people who don’t like coffee as a beverage, but they love the coffee scent of these DIY coffee candles!

Why you’ll love this recipe

• It’s easy: You simply melt the ingredients together and leave them to set (and add a wick, of course!)
• It’s low cost: Coffee granules and beeswax are relatively inexpensive, especially if you buy in bulk.
• They make great gifts: Here’s an idea! Grab some transparent cellophane packing and a cute ribbon, and wrap these candles up as Christmas gifts for loved ones. 

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How to make coffee candles

Ingredients/Supplies:

• Beeswax (or soy wax)
• Candle wicks
• One teaspoon of natural, coarse-ground coffee (not instant coffee)
• A mug to pour the candle wax into

Instructions: 

Step 1: Melt the beeswax using a wax melter or a double boiler. Note the amount of wax will vary depending on the size of the mug you use. Depending on the mug size, you’ll need to melt more (or less.)

Step 2: Glue your wick to the bottom of the mug.

Tip: Choose an appropriately sized wick for your size coffee mug.

Step 3: Add the coffee grounds to the mug.

Step 4: Pour the melted wax carefully into the mug over the top of the coffee granules. 

Note: The grounds will float to the top.

Step 5: Center the top of the wick with bamboo skewers or two pencils.

Step 6: Allow it to cool completely before trimming the wick.

Step 7: Light the candle and take in that lovely aroma!

Tips

• Coffee grounds: It’s normal for coffee grounds to float around in hot wax until it turns solid. 
• Wick size: Use a thicker wick size depending on the size of the mug you use for the candle. 
• Beeswax: Beeswax, on its own, is slightly fragrant of honey. You’ll surely notice the fragrance of the coffee grounds, but it won’t be too much. I personally love the combination of honey scent and coffee – like a sweet shop!
• If you love coffee: Add a coffee fragrance to the wax mixture for a more aromatic coffee scent. 
• Fresh coffee or used: You can use either used or fresh coffee grinds; it’s up to you! Fresh grounds will give off a slightly greater aroma.
• Safety: Of course, the wax, when melted, is very hot, so take care and use protective gloves and an apron. Also, consider goggles and tying your hair back if it’s long. 
• Keep your drain clean: Whatever you do, don’t wash wax down the drain – it’ll clog the pipes. Instead, wipe it out with a paper towel and throw it in the trash.  
• Using a mug: I suggest using a mug to create the candle because it looks cute and saves on costs. Indeed, we all have a mug in our cabinets! You could use a teacup, but avoid glass as it may crack with the wax heat. 

Safety Precautions

As always with any candle-making process, care needs to be taken. Never leave coffee candles unattended. Coffee grounds are flammable and care should be taken when burning them in candles.

Be ultra cautious when you’re pouring the wax into the mug, as it’ll be near boiling. Wear gloves and an apron to be safe.

Also, when burning the candle, avoid placing the lit candle underneath or near curtains or drapes, or anything that may catch fire.

FAQs

Is it safe to put coffee grains in candles?

Yes, it is. They will float around in the hot wax, creating a nice sprinkled effect once the wax dries. 

Can you make candles out of coffee cups?

Sure you can! Picking the coffee mug is the best part! Check out your local thrift stores, or pull one out of your cabinet!

Just don’t use glass to make the candles – unless it’s glass specially made for candle-making purposes (strengthened glass)

Can you make the coffee scent stronger?

Yes, you can. You’ll need to add in a coffee fragrance, which you can buy from candle-making or craft stores.

Is beeswax or soy wax better for coffee candles?

Both waxes will work just fine for coffee candles. Soy wax is white with little to no scent, while the beeswax is yellow with a hint of sweet honey aroma.

Why Beeswax?

These are the top reasons why I chose to make these coffee candles with beeswax:

• Longer burn time compared to other wax options.
• Non-toxic and hypoallergenic, meaning it’s unlikely to cause allergic reactions.
• 100% natural with no synthetics added.
• Clean burning without smoke or residue.
• A subtle, sweet scent that compliments the coffee granules.

Summary

I absolutely love making candles. From candle dipping to wax melts, it’s always a lovely experience with beautiful-smelling results!

I hope you enjoy making and using these DIY coffee candles in your home! 

I’m sure your loved ones will enjoy using them, too. If you share them as gifts, why not make a larger batch and stock up for birthdays or Christmas? 

For more candle gift ideas, check out these posts:

• Christmas scented candles
• Simple beeswax candle recipe
• Mason jar candles with dried flowers