How To Make Iced Coffee With Oat Milk: 3 Ways
Are you looking for a refreshing, dairy-free alternative to your regular iced coffee? Look no further! In this blog post, we'll explore three mouthwatering ways to make iced coffee with oat milk. Whether you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply curious about trying something new, these recipes will satisfy your caffeine cravings while keeping things creamy and delicious.
Why Oat Milk is the Perfect Coffee Companion
Before we dive into the recipes, let's talk about why oat milk has become such a popular choice for coffee lovers:
- Creamy texture: Oat milk has a naturally creamy consistency that mimics dairy milk, making it ideal for coffee drinks.
- Neutral flavor: Unlike some plant-based milks, oat milk has a subtle taste that doesn't overpower the coffee.
- Environmentally friendly: Oat production requires less water and land compared to dairy and other plant-based milks.
- Nutritious: Oat milk is often fortified with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice.
Now that we've covered the basics, let's explore three delicious ways to make iced coffee with oat milk!
Method 1: Classic Cold Brew with Oat Milk
This method is perfect for those who love a smooth, less acidic coffee experience. Cold brew concentrate paired with creamy oat milk creates a refreshing and balanced drink.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
- 4 cups cold water
- Oat milk
- Ice cubes
- Optional: sweetener of choice
Instructions:
- In a large jar or pitcher, combine the ground coffee and cold water.
- Stir gently to ensure all the grounds are saturated.
- Cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
- Strain the coffee concentrate through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
- Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour 1/2 cup of cold brew concentrate over the ice.
- Add 1/2 cup of oat milk and stir well.
- Taste and add sweetener if desired.
Pro tip: Make a larger batch of cold brew concentrate and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks. This way, you'll always have some ready for your iced coffee cravings!
Method 2: Instant Iced Coffee with Oat Milk
For those mornings when you need your caffeine fix ASAP, this method is a quick and easy solution.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons instant coffee
- 1/4 cup hot water
- 3/4 cup cold oat milk
- Ice cubes
- Optional: sweetener of choice
Instructions:
- In a glass, dissolve the instant coffee in hot water.
- Add a few ice cubes to cool the coffee quickly.
- Pour in the cold oat milk and stir well.
- Add more ice cubes to fill the glass.
- Taste and add sweetener if desired.
Barista's secret: For an extra creamy texture, use a handheld milk frother to blend the coffee and oat milk together. This creates a smoother, more cafe-like experience!
Method 3: Blended Iced Coffee Oat Milk Frappe
This indulgent method is perfect for those hot summer days when you want something extra special. It's like a healthier, homemade version of your favorite coffee shop frappe!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1 cup oat milk
- 2-3 tablespoons sweetener (maple syrup, agave, or sugar)
- 2 cups ice cubes
- Optional: 1 scoop vanilla protein powder for added nutrition
Instructions:
- Brew a cup of strong coffee and let it cool to room temperature.
- In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, oat milk, sweetener, and ice cubes.
- If using, add the scoop of vanilla protein powder.
- Blend on high speed until smooth and frothy.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Flavor boost: For a mocha twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the blender. You can also experiment with different flavored syrups or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg!
Tips for the Perfect Iced Coffee with Oat Milk
To elevate your iced coffee game, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the right oat milk: Look for barista-style oat milk, which is formulated to work well with coffee and won't separate when heated.
- Experiment with coffee-to-milk ratios: Everyone has different preferences, so try different proportions to find your perfect balance.
- Make coffee ice cubes: Freeze leftover coffee in an ice cube tray. Use these instead of regular ice cubes to prevent dilution as they melt.
- Sweeten smartly: If you like your coffee sweet, use simple syrup or liquid sweeteners that dissolve easily in cold drinks.
- Garnish creatively: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dollop of whipped coconut cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special touch.
The Health Benefits of Oat Milk Iced Coffee
Not only is iced coffee with oat milk delicious, but it also comes with some health perks:
- Lower in calories: Oat milk typically has fewer calories than whole dairy milk, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.
- Rich in fiber: Oats are a good source of soluble fiber, which can help improve digestion and keep you feeling full.
- Heart-healthy: The beta-glucans in oats have been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.
- Antioxidant boost: Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.
According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition, regularly consuming oat milk can lead to a 5% reduction in total and LDL cholesterol levels. Combined with the potential health benefits of moderate coffee consumption, your oat milk iced coffee might just be doing your body a favor!
Conclusion: Embrace the Oat Milk Iced Coffee Revolution
With these three delicious methods for making iced coffee with oat milk, you're well-equipped to enjoy a refreshing, dairy-free caffeine fix all summer long. Whether you prefer the smooth taste of cold brew, the convenience of instant coffee, or the indulgence of a blended frappe, there's an oat milk iced coffee recipe for everyone.
Don't be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors, sweeteners, and toppings. The world of oat milk iced coffee is yours to explore!
So, which method will you try first? Share your creations on social media and tag us – we'd love to see your oat milk iced coffee masterpieces!
Key Takeaways
- Oat milk is a creamy, environmentally friendly alternative to dairy milk that pairs perfectly with iced coffee.
- Cold brew with oat milk offers a smooth, less acidic coffee experience.
- Instant iced coffee with oat milk is a quick and easy option for busy mornings.
- Blended oat milk coffee frappes provide an indulgent, cafe-style treat at home.
- Experimenting with ratios, sweeteners, and add-ins can help you create your perfect oat milk iced coffee.