Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink

Name: Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled; 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk; 1 tbsp vanilla extract; 1-2 tsp sweetener of choice (like stevia or erythritol); Ice cubes

Highlighted under: Balanced Wellness Meals

I absolutely love starting my day with a refreshing iced coffee. This Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink is my go-to recipe when I want something delicious that won’t derail my diet. The combination of aromatic coffee, a smooth splash of vanilla, and just the right amount of sweetness makes for a perfect pick-me-up. It’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying, allowing me to enjoy my coffee fix without the guilt.

Created by

Rebecca Mills

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:10:35.575Z

When I decided to create this iced coffee drink, I wanted to find a way to enjoy a classic flavor without all the calories. After experimenting with various ingredients, I discovered that using unsweetened almond milk and pure vanilla extract gives just the right flavor punch while keeping it light. I was surprised at how satisfying this drink can be with so few ingredients!

The key to getting the best flavor in my iced coffee is using freshly brewed coffee that has cooled down slightly. This way, you enjoy the warm aroma paired with the chilled drink, bringing a beautiful balance. Also, feel free to add ice according to your preference for a more refreshing experience!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously refreshing and guilt-free
Perfectly balanced vanilla and coffee flavors
Simple to whip up in just a few minutes

Mastering Your Brew

The foundation of any great iced coffee is the brewing process. Use high-quality coffee beans and consider cold brewing for a smoother, less acidic flavor. If you're brewing hot coffee, let it cool down to room temperature before proceeding. This helps prevent dilution from melting ice. If you're short on time, the refrigerator is a quick way to chill your coffee; just don't let it sit too long, as it may lose its vibrant flavor.

Experiment with different roast levels to find what you enjoy most. Dark roasts will lend a deeper flavor, while medium roasts tend to have brighter, more pronounced notes. Remember, the coffee flavor will intensify once it's mixed with ice, so balance is key. Adjust the coffee strength according to your taste, especially if you plan to add more almond milk.

Choosing the Right Ingredients

Selecting your sweetener is crucial for keeping the drink low in calories while still satisfying your sweet tooth. Granulated sweeteners like erythritol dissolve easily in cold liquids and mimic the taste of sugar without the calories. Stevia is another great option but be mindful of the brand, as some can have a bitter aftertaste. Start with a smaller amount and adjust to your preference.

Almond milk is an excellent choice for this recipe due to its lightness and nutty flavor. If you're looking for something richer, try cashew or coconut milk. Remember that flavored almond milks may add extra sweetness, so adjust your sweetener accordingly. For a protein boost, consider adding a bit of protein powder that complements the flavor profile.

Ingredients

Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink Ingredients

1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tbsp vanilla extract
1-2 tsp sweetener of choice (like stevia or erythritol)
Ice cubes

Instructions

Prepare the Coffee

Brew your coffee as per your usual method, then let it cool slightly to room temperature.

Mix the Ingredients

In a glass, combine the cooled coffee, almond milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener. Stir well to mix all the flavors.

Serve

Fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the coffee mixture over the ice. Enjoy it immediately for the best flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top before serving. You can also use flavored coffee for a unique twist!

Storage Solutions

If you prepare your iced vanilla coffee drink in advance, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain the best taste, it's recommended to keep the coffee and milk mixture separate from ice until you're ready to serve. This prevents dilution and helps preserve flavor integrity.

Freezing coffee is another clever method to keep your iced drinks cold without watering them down. Simply pour brewed coffee into ice cube trays and freeze. Use these coffee ice cubes in place of regular ice cubes for a perfect, flavorful chill without compromising the taste.

Creative Variations

Get creative with flavorings by adding a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder to the mix. A pinch of cinnamon can elevate the drink with its warm spiciness, while cocoa powder brings a rich, chocolatey depth. Just be sure to blend these in well to avoid clumping.

Try using different extracts for a unique twist. Almond extract can add a delightful nuttiness, while hazelnut extract offers a warm, cozy flavor. Just substitute equal amounts for the vanilla extract to change things up without altering the drink's texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use regular milk, but keep in mind it may add extra calories.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

Simply ensure you're using plant-based ingredients, like almond milk and a vegan-friendly sweetener.

→ Can I prepare this drink ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the coffee and mix the ingredients ahead, storing them in the fridge. Just add ice when you're ready to serve.

→ What sweeteners work best?

You can use any low-calorie sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for the best results.