Low Calorie Iced Hazelnut Coffee
Highlighted under: Fresh Nourish Kitchen
I love starting my day with a refreshing cup of coffee, and this Low Calorie Iced Hazelnut Coffee is my go-to. It’s the perfect blend of nutty flavor and icy coolness, making it a delightful treat even in the summer heat. I managed to create a version that feels indulgent without the extra calories, and trust me, you won’t miss the cream! This recipe is so easy and can be whipped up in just a few minutes, which is fantastic for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up.
When I first tried crafting a low calorie coffee, I wasn't sure it was going to be possible. After several attempts, I discovered that using unsweetened almond milk and hazelnut extract created a rich flavor profile, while keeping the calories at bay. Adding a dash of sweetener really enhances the overall experience!
Moreover, I realized the importance of ice in keeping my coffee chilled without diluting the flavor. By preparing the coffee in advance and letting it cool, I could enjoy a delicious iced drink anytime I wanted. This preparation method really makes a difference!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Rich hazelnut flavor without the calories
- Quick and easy to prepare for busy mornings
- Perfectly refreshing on a hot day
Perfecting Your Brew
The foundation of an excellent iced hazelnut coffee lies in the coffee itself. Choosing the right coffee beans is crucial; a medium roast typically provides a well-rounded flavor that complements the nutty notes of hazelnut. I recommend brewing your coffee using a French press or pour-over method, as they tend to extract more nuanced flavors than automatic drip coffee makers. Allow the coffee to cool completely to avoid diluting your drink with melted ice.
For those who enjoy a stronger coffee flavor, consider increasing the brew strength by using more coffee grounds or reducing the water used in brewing. This little tweak can enhance the overall iced coffee experience and ensure that the rich hazelnut flavor shines through.
Customizing Your Drink
While this recipe calls for unsweetened almond milk, feel free to experiment with other milk alternatives like oat or cashew milk, which both lend their own flavors and creaminess. If you're not dairy-free, a splash of low-fat milk or even flavored creamers can elevate the taste while still keeping the calorie count low. Adjust the sweetness by trying different sweeteners—like flavored syrups or honey—depending on your preference for taste and dietary needs.
To enhance the hazelnut flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of ground hazelnuts or a drizzle of hazelnut syrup on top before serving. This not only boosts the nuttiness but adds a delightful visual element. For a brunch twist, a dollop of whipped coconut cream can provide an indulgent finish without tipping the scales on calories.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Make your mornings smoother by prepping your ingredients in advance. Brew a large batch of coffee and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This way, you'll have coffee ready for quick assembly. If you're planning to enjoy this drink throughout the week, consider freezing some of your brewed coffee in ice trays to create coffee ice cubes. This prevents your drink from becoming watered down as the ice melts.
To ensure the best flavor and texture, it's advisable to consume your iced hazelnut coffee within a day of preparation. If stored longer, the coffee might lose its freshness, and the flavors could become muted. Remember, the key to a refreshing iced coffee experience is to maintain that vibrant taste.
Ingredients
For the Iced Hazelnut Coffee
- 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon hazelnut extract
- 1-2 teaspoons sweetener of choice (e.g., stevia, monk fruit)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
How to Make It
Prepare the Coffee
Brew your favorite coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. You can also brew it the night before and refrigerate.
Mix the Ingredients
In a glass, combine the cooled coffee, almond milk, hazelnut extract, and sweetener. Stir well until all ingredients are blended.
Add Ice and Serve
Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the coffee mixture over the ice. Stir to combine and enjoy your refreshing iced coffee!
Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, consider topping your iced coffee with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for some added flavor without too many calories.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Low Calorie Iced Hazelnut Coffee with a slice of almond flour banana bread for a delightful breakfast pairing. The nutty flavors complement each other beautifully, creating a satisfying yet healthy start to your day. You can also offer this drink at social gatherings as a refreshing alternative to traditional iced coffee or sweetened beverages.
For an extra layer of indulgence, consider garnishing your coffee with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a few chocolate shavings to create a mocha hazelnut version. It's a simple twist that can impress your guests or elevate your afternoon pick-me-up.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If you find your iced hazelnut coffee too sweet, simply add a splash more almond milk or chilled water to balance out the flavors. On the flip side, if the coffee is too weak, increase the coffee-to-water ratio next time you brew or try a darker roast to create a more robust base for your drink.
If your iced coffee ends up too watery due to melting ice, you can prep coffee ice cubes in advance. They will help keep your drink chilled without diluting the rich flavors. Another tip is to make your iced coffee by blending it with ice for a frozen coffee treat, especially great for those super hot days.
Scaling the Recipe
This recipe is easily scalable; just maintain the same ratio of ingredients. Whether you're making one cup for yourself or enough for a crowd, multiply the amounts accordingly. For an entire pitcher, brew four cups of coffee and mix with two cups of almond milk and adjust the hazelnut extract to taste—it’s that simple!
When scaling up, prepare the coffee in advance and chill it overnight. This ensures that you'll have a refreshing batch ready to serve at your next brunch or summer picnic. Having a larger quantity on hand makes it easy to customize individual servings with varying levels of sweetness or additional flavors.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?
Yes, you can use regular milk or any other milk alternative you prefer, but keep in mind that this will change the calorie count.
→ Is hazelnut extract necessary?
While it enhances the flavor, you can omit it if you prefer a more traditional iced coffee taste.
→ How can I make this recipe vegan?
This recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses almond milk and does not contain any animal products.
→ Can I sweeten this recipe with sugar?
Absolutely! You can use sugar or any other sweetener, just adjust the amount to your taste.
Low Calorie Iced Hazelnut Coffee
I love starting my day with a refreshing cup of coffee, and this Low Calorie Iced Hazelnut Coffee is my go-to. It’s the perfect blend of nutty flavor and icy coolness, making it a delightful treat even in the summer heat. I managed to create a version that feels indulgent without the extra calories, and trust me, you won’t miss the cream! This recipe is so easy and can be whipped up in just a few minutes, which is fantastic for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up.
Created by: Maisie Clarke
Recipe Type: Fresh Nourish Kitchen
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 serving
What You'll Need
For the Iced Hazelnut Coffee
- 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1/2 teaspoon hazelnut extract
- 1-2 teaspoons sweetener of choice (e.g., stevia, monk fruit)
- Ice cubes
How-To Steps
Brew your favorite coffee and allow it to cool to room temperature. You can also brew it the night before and refrigerate.
In a glass, combine the cooled coffee, almond milk, hazelnut extract, and sweetener. Stir well until all ingredients are blended.
Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the coffee mixture over the ice. Stir to combine and enjoy your refreshing iced coffee!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, consider topping your iced coffee with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a dollop of whipped coconut cream for some added flavor without too many calories.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 50 kcal
- Total Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 40mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 6g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 1g