Ah, the great coffee debate: Folgers or Maxwell House? If you’ve ever found yourself in the grocery store aisle pondering which of these classic coffee brands to choose, you’re not alone.
Folgers and Maxwell House have been providing American households with ready-to-brew coffee for over a century, and while they share many similarities, there are some key differences worth exploring.
So, let’s dive into the world of these beloved budget coffee brands and find out what sets them apart!
The Bean Blend: Arabica and Robusta
Both Folgers and Maxwell House use a blend of two distinct types of coffee beans— arabica and robusta. Arabica beans are known for their smoother, more complex flavors and aromas. On the other hand, robusta beans have a bolder, more bitter taste and pack a caffeine punch (sometimes double the caffeine of arabica beans!).
Back in 2007, Maxwell House made a bold move to use 100% arabica beans, giving them an edge over Folgers in terms of taste and quality. But, quality comes at a cost, and to keep prices competitive, Maxwell House eventually returned to a blend of arabica and robusta beans.
The Taste Test: Smooth Vs. Bold
When it comes to flavor, the preference is personal. Maxwell House is often praised for its smooth and inoffensive aroma, while Folgers is known for a slightly sweeter, bolder flavor. So, if you’re looking for a gentle wake-up call, Maxwell House might be your go-to. But if you’re after a strong caffeine boost, Folgers is ready to deliver.
The History: Golden Beginnings
Folgers got its start back in 1850 when a young entrepreneur named James Folger ventured to San Francisco during the Gold Rush. While James didn’t strike gold, he did build a coffee empire. Fun fact: the famous jingle “The best part of waking up, is Folgers in your cup” was launched by Proctor & Gamble in 1963, and it’s still stuck in our heads today!
Maxwell House has an intriguing origin story too. In 1873, traveling salesman Joel Cheek recommended a superior-tasting coffee to a grocer and later teamed up with Roger Nolley Smith to start Maxwell House Coffee. Named after the hotel where it was first served, Maxwell House’s slogan “good to the last drop” is said to have a connection to President Theodore Roosevelt. How’s that for coffee history?
Product Offerings: Something for Everyone
Folgers and Maxwell House don’t just offer classic roast coffee—they have a variety of options to suit different preferences. From dark roasts to flavored coffees, there’s something for everyone. Here are some popular choices:
Folgers:
- Classic Roast
- Black Silk (Dark Roast)
- 100% Colombian (Medium-Dark Roast)
- French Vanilla (Flavored)
- Hazelnut (Flavored)
Maxwell House:
- Original Roast
- French Roast (Dark Roast)
- 100% Colombian (Medium-Dark Roast)
- French Vanilla (Flavored)
- Hazelnut (Flavored)
At a Glance: Folgers Vs. Maxwell House
| Aspect | Folgers | Maxwell House |
|---|---|---|
| Bean Blend | Arabica & Robusta | Arabica & Robusta |
| Flavor Profile | Slightly sweeter, bolder flavor | Smooth, inoffensive aroma |
| Popular Slogan | “The best part of waking up, is Folgers in your cup” | “Good to the last drop” |
| Founded | 1850 | 1892 |
| Range of Products | Classic Roast, Dark Roasts, Flavored Coffees, etc. | Original Roast, Dark Roasts, Flavored Coffees, etc. |
The Bottom Line: A Cup of Comfort
While coffee connoisseurs might reach for single-origin, freshly ground coffee, there’s something special about a regular cup of joe. Whether it’s the warmth, the nostalgia, or the simple pleasure of an average cup of coffee, Folgers and Maxwell House deliver. So, which is better? Well, that’s up to you and your taste buds!
As you enjoy your next cup, remember that both Folgers and Maxwell House are steeped in history and tradition. And whether you prefer smooth or bold, these iconic brands are ready to greet you each morning, one comforting sip at a time.
Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using these links. Remember to support us by purchasing through the Amazon/Walmart/Impact Radius links provided. Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Disclosure: No compensation or free products were received in exchange for writing this review.
Editorial Staff
The editorial staff at Crazy Coffee Crave is a team of coffee enthusiasts & Baristas who enjoy the one thing we all think about as soon as we get up in the morning. Trusted by thousands of readers worldwide.
