Summer heat got you down? Beat the heat and boost your energy with this incredibly easy and refreshing blender iced coffee recipe. Forget those expensive, sugary coffee shop concoctions – this homemade version is just as delicious, completely customizable, and way better for your wallet. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekend mornings, or any time you crave a delicious and invigorating treat. Let's dive into this quick and easy recipe for the best iced coffee you'll ever taste!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled (use your favorite blend!)
- 1 cup milk of your choice (dairy, almond, soy – experiment!)
- 1/4 cup ice
- 2 tablespoons sweetener (maple syrup, honey, sugar – adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Pinch of salt (enhances the sweetness)
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, chocolate shavings, cinnamon
Instructions:
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Brew the Coffee: Start by brewing your favorite coffee. Let it cool completely before blending to prevent a watery, lukewarm drink. Stronger coffee will result in a more intense flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cooled coffee, milk, ice, sweetener, vanilla extract, and salt to a blender.
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Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until the ice is completely crushed and the mixture is frothy and smooth. This usually takes about 30-45 seconds.
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Pour and Enjoy: Pour your delicious blender iced coffee into your favorite glass. Add your desired toppings and savor every sip!
Tips for the Perfect Blend:
- Ice Quality Matters: Using high-quality ice ensures a smoother, less watery iced coffee.
- Sweetener Adjustment: Adjust the amount of sweetener according to your preference. Start with less and add more gradually until you reach your desired sweetness.
- Experiment with Flavors: Get creative! Add a dash of cocoa powder for a mocha-flavored iced coffee, or blend in some frozen berries for a fruity twist.
Variations:
- Mocha Iced Coffee: Add 1-2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Caramel Iced Coffee: Drizzle caramel syrup over the top after blending.
- Vanilla Bean Iced Coffee: Use vanilla bean paste instead of extract for a richer vanilla flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate values):
This will vary depending on the ingredients you use. For a general idea, using 1 cup brewed coffee, 1 cup almond milk, 2 tablespoons maple syrup:
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-35g
- Protein: 5-10g
This recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, and delicious dishes. It's a simple yet satisfying homemade cooking project, perfect for those looking for easy recipes without sacrificing flavor. Enjoy this refreshing and revitalizing blend, and let us know your favorite variations in the comments below!