Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee: Imagine starting your day with a creamy, nutty, and utterly refreshing beverage that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also keeps you firmly on track with your ketogenic lifestyle. Sounds too good to be true? It's not! This isn't just another coffee recipe; it's a delightful experience that will transform your mornings (or afternoons!).
Iced coffee, in its various forms, has been a beloved pick-me-up for generations, evolving from a simple way to cool down leftover coffee to a sophisticated and customizable drink enjoyed worldwide. The addition of hazelnut elevates it to a new level of indulgence, reminiscent of European cafes and decadent desserts. But what if you could enjoy that same luxurious flavor without the guilt? That's where our Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee recipe comes in.
People adore iced coffee for its invigorating coolness, especially on warm days. It's a convenient and customizable beverage that can be tailored to individual preferences. The rich, nutty flavor of hazelnut adds a layer of complexity and sophistication, making it a truly special treat. This keto-friendly version allows you to savor all the deliciousness without worrying about the carb count. Get ready to discover your new favorite way to enjoy coffee!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other keto-friendly milk)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon hazelnut extract (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
- Ice cubes
- Optional toppings: whipped cream (keto-friendly), sugar-free chocolate shavings, chopped hazelnuts
Preparing the Coffee Base:
- Brew your coffee strong. I usually use a French press or a Moka pot for this, as they tend to produce a richer, more concentrated brew. You can also use an espresso machine if you have one. The key is to make sure it's strong enough to stand up to the other ingredients.
- Cool the coffee completely. This is crucial! You don't want to melt all your ice right away. I often brew the coffee ahead of time and let it cool in the refrigerator for at least an hour, or even overnight. This also helps to develop the flavors even more.
Blending the Iced Coffee:
- Combine the ingredients in a blender. In a high-speed blender, add the cooled coffee, almond milk, heavy cream, hazelnut extract, and sweetener. Start with 1 tablespoon of sweetener and adjust to taste later.
- Add xanthan gum (optional). If you want a thicker, more milkshake-like consistency, add the xanthan gum. Be careful not to add too much, as it can make the drink gummy. A little goes a long way!
- Blend until smooth. Blend the mixture on high speed until it's completely smooth and well combined. This usually takes about 30-60 seconds, depending on the power of your blender.
- Taste and adjust. Now's the time to taste your iced coffee and adjust the sweetness or hazelnut flavor to your liking. Add more sweetener or hazelnut extract, a little at a time, until you reach your desired taste.
Serving the Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee:
- Fill a glass with ice. Grab your favorite glass and fill it with ice cubes. I prefer to use crushed ice, but regular ice cubes work just fine too.
- Pour the blended coffee over the ice. Carefully pour the blended keto hazelnut iced coffee over the ice in your glass.
- Add optional toppings. If you're feeling fancy, you can add some keto-friendly whipped cream on top. I like to use a sugar-free whipped cream from a can, or you can make your own using heavy cream and a keto-friendly sweetener.
- Garnish with sugar-free chocolate shavings or chopped hazelnuts. For an extra touch of flavor and visual appeal, sprinkle some sugar-free chocolate shavings or chopped hazelnuts on top of the whipped cream.
- Serve immediately and enjoy! Your keto hazelnut iced coffee is now ready to be enjoyed. Sip slowly and savor the delicious, refreshing flavor.
Tips and Variations:
- Adjust the sweetness to your preference. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to sweetness, so feel free to adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking. You can use erythritol, stevia, monk fruit, or any other keto-friendly sweetener.
- Use different types of milk. While I prefer unsweetened almond milk for its low carb content, you can also use other keto-friendly milk alternatives, such as coconut milk, macadamia milk, or even heavy cream diluted with water.
- Add a pinch of salt. A tiny pinch of salt can actually enhance the sweetness and hazelnut flavor of the iced coffee.
- Make it a mocha. For a chocolatey twist, add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the blender along with the other ingredients.
- Add a shot of espresso. If you want an extra caffeine boost, add a shot of espresso to the blender.
- Make it ahead of time. You can prepare the blended coffee base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before pouring it over ice.
- Use coffee ice cubes. To prevent your iced coffee from getting watered down, freeze some brewed coffee in ice cube trays and use those instead of regular ice cubes.
- Experiment with different extracts. While hazelnut extract is the star of this recipe, you can also experiment with other extracts, such as vanilla, almond, or even peppermint.
- Add MCT oil or powder. For an extra boost of healthy fats and energy, add a tablespoon of MCT oil or powder to the blender.
- Consider adding protein powder. If you want to make this iced coffee a more substantial meal replacement, add a scoop of your favorite keto-friendly protein powder to the blender.
Choosing the Right Sweetener:
Selecting the right sweetener is crucial for maintaining a keto-friendly diet. Here's a breakdown of some popular options:
- Erythritol: This is my go-to sweetener for most keto recipes. It has a very similar taste and texture to sugar, but it has virtually no calories or carbs. It's also well-tolerated by most people.
- Stevia: Stevia is a natural sweetener derived from the stevia plant. It's much sweeter than sugar, so you only need to use a small amount. Some people find that it has a slightly bitter aftertaste.
- Monk Fruit: Monk fruit is another natural sweetener that's derived from a fruit. It's also very sweet and has no calories or carbs. It's often blended with erythritol to reduce the intensity of the sweetness.
- Xylitol: Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that's commonly used in sugar-free gum and candy. It has a similar sweetness to sugar, but it has fewer calories and carbs. However, it's important to note that xylitol is toxic to dogs, so keep it away from your furry friends.
- Sucralose: Sucralose is an artificial sweetener that's sold under the brand name Splenda. It's very sweet and has no calories or carbs. However, some people are concerned about the potential health effects of artificial sweeteners.
I recommend experimenting with different sweeteners to find the one that you like best. Keep in mind that some sweeteners can have a slightly different taste or texture, so you may need to adjust the amount you use in your recipes.
Understanding Xanthan Gum:
Xanthan gum is a polysaccharide that's commonly used as a thickening agent in food. It's made by fermenting simple sugars with a bacterium called Xanthomonas campestris. It's a very effective thickener, and it only takes a small amount to make a big difference in the consistency of your recipes.
In this keto hazelnut iced coffee recipe, xanthan gum helps to create a thicker, more milkshake-like texture. It also helps to prevent the ingredients from separating. However, it's important to use xanthan gum sparingly, as too much can make the drink gummy.
If you don't have xanthan gum on hand, you can try using other thickening agents, such as guar gum or chia seeds. However, these alternatives may not produce the same results.
Choosing Keto-Friendly Milk:
When following a keto diet, it's important to choose milk alternatives that are low in carbohydrates. Here are some of the best options:
- Unsweetened Almond Milk: This is my go-to milk alternative for most keto recipes. It's very low in carbs and calories, and it has a mild, neutral flavor.
- Coconut Milk (Canned): Canned coconut milk is a good option for adding richness and creaminess to your recipes. However, it's important to choose unsweetened coconut milk, as some brands contain added sugar.
- Macadamia Milk: Macadamia milk is another low-carb milk alternative that's rich and creamy. It has a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with many different ingredients.
- Heavy Cream: While technically not a milk alternative, heavy cream can be used to add richness and creaminess to your keto recipes. It's very high in fat and low in carbs.
Avoid using regular cow's milk, as it's high in lactose, a type of sugar that can kick you out of ketosis.
Health Benefits of Keto Coffee:
Besides being a delicious and refreshing treat, keto coffee can also offer several health benefits:
- Increased Energy: The combination of caffeine and healthy fats can provide a sustained energy boost without the crash that often comes with sugary
Conclusion:
So, there you have it! This Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee isn't just a drink; it's a delightful experience waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to indulge in a creamy, nutty, and utterly satisfying beverage without derailing their keto goals. It's quick, easy, and customizable, making it the perfect addition to your morning routine or a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up.
Why is it a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the obvious deliciousness, it's the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The rich, bold coffee, the sweet and nutty hazelnut, and the creamy smoothness all come together in perfect harmony. Plus, it's incredibly versatile! You can adjust the sweetness to your liking, experiment with different types of keto-friendly sweeteners, and even add a dash of cinnamon or cocoa powder for an extra layer of flavor. It's a blank canvas for your taste buds!
Serving Suggestions and Variations:
While this recipe is fantastic as is, there are endless ways to customize it to your preferences. For a richer, more decadent treat, try adding a tablespoon of heavy cream or coconut cream. If you're feeling adventurous, blend in a handful of ice for a frozen frappe-like consistency. You could also top it with a dollop of whipped cream (keto-friendly, of course!) and a sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts for a truly indulgent experience.
Here are a few more ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cardamom or nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor.
- Chocolate Hazelnut: Incorporate a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder for a mocha-inspired twist.
- Vanilla Bean: Scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean into the coffee for an extra touch of elegance.
- Make it a Meal: Add a scoop of your favorite keto protein powder for a filling and energizing breakfast or post-workout snack.
Don't be afraid to experiment and find your perfect combination! The beauty of this recipe is that it's incredibly forgiving and adaptable. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your taste and dietary needs.
I'm so excited for you to try this Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee! I'm confident that you'll love it as much as I do. It's the perfect way to satisfy your sweet cravings without compromising your health goals. It's a guilt-free indulgence that you can enjoy any time of day.
So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, grab your blender (or shaker), and get ready to experience the magic of this delicious drink. I can't wait to hear what you think! Please, come back and share your experience in the comments below. Let me know what variations you tried, what you loved, and what you would change. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me create even better recipes for you in the future.
Happy brewing, and enjoy your Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee!
Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee: The Perfect Low-Carb Summer Drink
A creamy and refreshing keto hazelnut iced coffee, perfect for a low-carb treat. Made with strong coffee, almond milk, and a hint of hazelnut, it's a delicious way to stay cool and energized.
Ingredients
- 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other keto-friendly milk)
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon hazelnut extract (adjust to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons erythritol or other keto-friendly sweetener (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
- Ice cubes
- Optional toppings: whipped cream (keto-friendly), sugar-free chocolate shavings, chopped hazelnuts
Instructions
- Brew Coffee: Brew your coffee strong using a French press, Moka pot, or espresso machine.
- Cool Coffee: Cool the coffee completely. Refrigerate for at least an hour or overnight.
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine cooled coffee, almond milk, heavy cream, hazelnut extract, and sweetener.
- Add Xanthan Gum (Optional): If desired, add xanthan gum for a thicker consistency.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend on high speed until smooth and well combined (30-60 seconds).
- Taste and Adjust: Adjust sweetness or hazelnut flavor to your liking.
- Fill Glass with Ice: Fill a glass with ice cubes.
- Pour Coffee Over Ice: Pour the blended coffee over the ice.
- Add Optional Toppings: Top with keto-friendly whipped cream, sugar-free chocolate shavings, or chopped hazelnuts.
- Serve Immediately: Enjoy your keto hazelnut iced coffee!
Notes
- Adjust sweetness to your preference using erythritol, stevia, or monk fruit.
- Use different keto-friendly milk alternatives like coconut milk or macadamia milk.
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.
- Make it a mocha by adding a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder.
- Add a shot of espresso for an extra caffeine boost.
- Prepare the blended coffee base ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Use coffee ice cubes to prevent watering down.
- Experiment with different extracts like vanilla or almond.
- Add MCT oil or powder for healthy fats and energy.
- Consider adding protein powder for a meal replacement.
