Ingredients
Making an ice cream coffee drink is an easy way to turn a regular cup of coffee into a sweet, summery treat. To get started, you’ll need 4 main ingredients: strong brewed coffee, softened ice cream, milk, and a dash of sugar. There are plenty of variations of this recipe, depending on what type of ice cream and milk you use, so feel free to experiment. In addition, you’ll also need to have a blender or other food processor to properly blend everything together.
When selecting the type of ice cream, you have a few options. You can opt for a classic vanilla or chocolate ice cream, which will lend a classic sweetness and flavor to the drink. If you want to try something different, you could also use a more unusual flavor, like maple or coconut. Just make sure to pick an ice cream that suits your taste buds.
When it comes to the milk, you can use any type that you like: skim, 2%, whole, or even almond milk. However, whole milk will add a creamy richness to the beverage and is recommended. You’ll also need approximately half of a cup of sugar; this should be enough to sweeten the drink to your liking, but feel free to adjust the amount according to your preferences.
Instructions
Once you have all of your ingredients ready, it’s time to get started. Start by making a cup of strong, brewed coffee. You can use either regular or decaf, and adding any flavorings is optional. Let the coffee cool until it’s just warm. In the meantime, add the ice cream and milk to a blender. If you’re using a hard, scoopable ice cream, make sure to soften it first by leaving it at room temperature for a few minutes.
Next, add the coffee and sugar to the blender, and blend until everything is thoroughly mixed. Depending on the strength of your blender, you may need to adjust the settings several times in order to get the right consistency. For a creamier texture, blend longer and until the texture reaches the desired thickness.
Once the mixture reaches the desired consistency, stop blending and pour the coffee-ice cream mixture into a tall glass. For an extra iced coffee twist, add some extra coffee and a splash of cold milk before serving. And to top things off, you can also garnish the ice cream coffee drink with whipped cream or a sprinkle of chocolate shavings.
Variations
The beauty of this drink is that there are so many ways to customize it. If you want to add a bit of nutrition, add some Greek yogurt or nut butter prior to blending. For a vegan version, you can use vegan ice cream and dairy-free milk. And if you’re looking for a more indulgent version, you can use a rich, creamy ice cream and full-fat milk.
You can also change up the flavorings and add-ins that you use. Add some fruit like bananas or strawberries for a fruity twist, or add some spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a spicy kick. Or for an extra touch of sweetness, add a few squirts of chocolate syrup or a drizzle of honey.
Finally, you can also experiment with the coffees and creamers that you use. Try using espresso instead of regular coffee for a bolder flavor, flavored creamers for a sweeter taste, or cold brew for a smooth, less acidic taste.
Serving
When it comes to serving this ice cream coffee drink, you can enjoy it as-is or you can get creative with the presentation. For an extra special treat, try adding a dollop of whipped cream or some chocolate shavings on top. You could also garnish the glass with some colorful fruits or sprinkles. Or if you really want to make a statement, you can use edible glitter or even freshly grated cinnamon.
If you’re making this drink for a special occasion, you could also consider making an ice cream coffee float. Instead of blending the ice cream and coffee together, pour the coffee over your favorite scoop of ice cream before topping it off with a splash of cold milk. This presentation is sure to impress your guests.
Benefits
This ice cream coffee drink is a great way to indulge in a sweet treat without feeling guilty. It’s an ideal option for those watching their sugar intake, as it contains significantly less sugar than most desserts. In addition, it provides some essential nutrients, such as calcium and protein, from the milk and ice cream.
What’s more, this is a great way to incorporate coffee into your diet. Coffee contains numerous beneficial compounds, such as antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and promote heart health. Plus, the caffeine content will help boost your energy levels and focus.
Tips
For the best results, opt for a high-quality brand of ice cream. This will ensure that your beverage has the right consistency and sweetness. In addition, make sure to use cold ingredients and keep the drink cool until you’re ready to serve it. Otherwise, the ice cream could melt and the beverage could become too thin.
If you’re not going to drink your ice cream coffee drink right away, it’s best to store it in the refrigerator. The drink should stay good for up to a day, but it’s best to drink it as soon as possible for the best flavor and texture.
Pairings
This ice cream coffee drink is versatile enough to pair with almost any type of food. It’s especially tasty when paired with heavier desserts, such as chocolate cake or brownies. It can also be enjoyed with breakfast pastries, like scones or muffins. If you want to try something a bit different, you can also pair this beverage with savory snacks, like chips or crackers.
For an elegant presentation, this ice cream coffee drink pairs well with breakfast, brunch, and lunch items, like crepes, omelets, and paninis. However, it’s also great on its own as a post-dinner treat. No matter what you decide to pair it with, it’s sure to be a hit.
Health Considerations
While this ice cream coffee drink is a tasty treat, it does have some calories and sugar. Therefore, it’s best to enjoy it in moderation. Be sure to track how much you’re drinking and opt for smaller servings if necessary. Additionally, if you have any food sensitivities, be sure to read the labels on the products you use to make sure they don’t contain any ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction.
It’s also important to note that this drink contains caffeine. While moderate amounts of caffeine are generally safe, too much can lead to jitters, insomnia, and other side effects. If you’re sensitive to caffeine or you have any underlying health conditions, it’s best to limit your intake of this beverage and to speak to a doctor or health professional for advice.
