Coffee has long been an integral part of many people’s lives, but it has perhaps never been more popular than it is today. Whether you like it hot, iced or frozen, coffee is an easy way to perk up, even on the most hectic of days. And thanks to its diverse flavors, coffee has become an art form in and of itself – perfect for customizing to suit your own cravings and mood.
Frozen coffee drinks, in particular, are becoming increasingly popular in cafes and restaurants, thanks to their creamy and indulgent texture, as well as their natural sweetness. The best part is that, with just a few ingredients, you can whip up your own frozen coffee drink at home, without ever needing to leave the comfort of your kitchen. Read on for more guidance on how to make a delicious frozen coffee drink for yourself.
First, choose your preferred type of coffee. Any type of coffee will work when making a frozen coffee drink, including espresso, cold brew and instant coffee. You can also mix and match coffees, or use a combination of several different types to create different flavor profiles. Once your base coffee is ready, add it to your blender.
Next, select your choice of sweetener. Once again, there are many options available, including sugar, honey, maple syrup and agave nectar. If you’re counting calories, look for a sugar-free alternative such as stevia or other natural sweeteners. Remember to adjust the amount of sweetener depending on your personal tastes.
You’ll also want to add a dairy or dairy-free alternative to your coffee. Milk is always a classic option and adds a creamy texture, while almond or coconut milk can add some delicious sweetness. For a richer flavor, you can also add evaporated or condensed milk – or look out for dairy-free options such as oat or soy milk. For those who like their coffee thick and rich, try adding a scoop of ice cream. Alternatively, those who prefer a lighter version can use low-fat dairy or non-dairy milk instead.
Finally, add your coffee mixture to the blender and blend until creamy and smooth. Make sure to scrape down the sides of the blender from time to time to ensure everything is thoroughly combined. Once your icy-cold coffee is blended, it’s ready to serve. For an extra flavor, sprinkle on some ground cinnamon or top with a dollop of whipped cream.
Flavor Variations
If you want to get creative with your frozen coffee drink, experiment with different flavor combinations. Vanilla, almond and hazelnut flavors all work well with coffee, as do various types of fruit, such as oranges or cherries. To give your drink a fun, tropical twist, try adding a splash of coconut or pineapple juice. Or if you prefer things on the spicy side, try adding chili flakes or a hint of cardamom.
Want the best of both worlds? Try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream to your blender along with your preferred flavorings to create a decadent shake-style drink. To take it one step further, you can also try adding a dash of orange liqueur for a boozy treat.
Remember – if you’re adding any type of alcohol to your frozen beverage, be sure to drink responsibly. Always know your limits and be aware of the risks of excessive alcohol consumption.
Serving and Storing
Once your frozen coffee drink is ready, transfer it to a large cup, chill in the freezer for a few minutes, then serve. Alternatively, you can also fill molds or ice lolly trays with your coffee mix and freeze until firm. If you have any leftover coffee mix, store it in an airtight container and pop it in the freezer. You can also freeze individual portions and store in the freezer for up to two weeks.
Tools
When making frozen coffee drinks, the right equipment is essential. A good blender is essential, as it needs to be strong enough to handle the ice and frozen ingredients. Also make sure it’s large enough to hold all the ingredients, while also having a small enough cup size to blend up single servings.
If you like to make frozen coffee drinks in batches, opt for an ice cream maker. Many models on the market today also come with a built-in scraper that helps keep your frozen drinks smooth and creamy. A handheld milk steamer or whip can also be useful for adding a rich, creamy texture to the drink.
Hygiene
To keep your frozen coffee drinks safe to consume, be sure to practice good hygiene. Make sure all equipment is thoroughly cleaned before and after use, and always use clean utensils when transferring ingredients to the blender or ice cream maker. Be sure to also wash your hands before preparing any food or drinks, and always inspect your ingredients for freshness and expiration dates.
Health Benefits
Coffee on its own holds a variety of health benefits, including increased energy levels and alertness. Combined with the right ingredients, a frozen coffee drink can also be surprisingly nutritious. Dairy-free ingredients such as coconut milk, oat and almond milk are all dairy-free but still provide essential vitamins and minerals, while fruits such as cherries and oranges can add a boost of antioxidants and natural sweetness. If you’re looking for more of a protein boost, try adding some protein powder to your coffee mixture.
As with all coffee drinks, however, be sure to remember to drink in moderation. Too much coffee can lead to dehydration, jitteriness and headaches – be sure to keep an eye on your caffeine intake.
