Name: Keto Cashew Milk Iced Coffee: The Ultimate Guide
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 1 serving
Ingredients: 1 cup unsweetened cashew milk (keto-friendly, minimal carbs); 1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled (or 2 shots of espresso); 1-2 tablespoons erythritol or keto-friendly sweetener (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess); 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor); Pinch of sea salt; Ice cubes; Optional toppings: unsweetened cocoa powder, cinnamon, sugar-free caramel sauce

Keto cashew milk iced coffee: the refreshing, creamy, and guilt-free pick-me-up you've been searching for! Imagine starting your day, or beating that afternoon slump, with a beverage that tastes indulgent but perfectly aligns with your ketogenic lifestyle. Forget those sugary coffee shop concoctions loaded with carbs; this homemade version is just as satisfying, if not more so, and takes only minutes to prepare.

While iced coffee itself has a relatively modern history, gaining popularity in the United States in the late 19th century, the keto adaptation is a testament to our evolving dietary needs and preferences. We're constantly seeking ways to enjoy our favorite treats without compromising our health goals. And that's where this recipe shines!

People adore iced coffee for its invigorating coolness, especially on warm days. But what truly elevates this keto cashew milk iced coffee is the creamy, subtly sweet flavor of cashew milk. It's naturally lower in carbs than traditional dairy milk and adds a luxurious texture that perfectly complements the bold taste of coffee. Plus, it's incredibly convenient to make at home, allowing you to customize the sweetness and strength to your exact liking. Get ready to experience a delicious and energizing beverage that will quickly become a staple in your keto routine!

Ingredients:

1 cup unsweetened cashew milk (ensure it's keto-friendly, with minimal carbs)
1/2 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled (or 2 shots of espresso)
1-2 tablespoons erythritol or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional, for extra creaminess)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)
Pinch of sea salt (enhances sweetness)
Ice cubes
Optional toppings: unsweetened cocoa powder, cinnamon, sugar-free caramel sauce

Preparing the Coffee Concentrate:

The key to a delicious iced coffee is starting with a strong coffee base. You have two options here: brewing a concentrated batch of coffee or using espresso. I personally prefer espresso for its intense flavor, but a strong brew works just as well.

Brew Strong Coffee: If you're opting for brewed coffee, use a higher coffee-to-water ratio than you normally would. I recommend using about 2 tablespoons of ground coffee per 6 ounces of water. Brew using your preferred method – drip, French press, or pour-over. Let it cool completely before moving on to the next step. This prevents the ice from melting too quickly and diluting your drink.
Prepare Espresso (Optional): If you have an espresso machine, pull two shots of espresso. Allow the espresso to cool slightly before using it. You can even chill it in the refrigerator for a few minutes to speed up the process.

Sweetening and Flavoring the Cashew Milk:

Now, let's get that cashew milk tasting amazing! The sweetness level is entirely up to you, so feel free to adjust the amount of sweetener to your liking. I find that erythritol works best because it doesn't have that weird aftertaste that some other keto sweeteners can have.

Combine Cashew Milk and Sweetener: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the unsweetened cashew milk with the erythritol (or your chosen sweetener).
Dissolve the Sweetener: Stir well until the sweetener is completely dissolved. This is important to prevent any gritty texture in your iced coffee. If you're having trouble dissolving the sweetener, you can gently warm the cashew milk in the microwave for a few seconds (but don't boil it!).
Add Vanilla Extract (Optional): If you're using vanilla extract, add it to the cashew milk mixture and stir to combine. Vanilla adds a lovely warmth and depth of flavor.
Add a Pinch of Salt: Don't skip the pinch of salt! It might seem counterintuitive, but a tiny bit of salt actually enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors.
Incorporate Heavy Cream (Optional): For an extra creamy and decadent iced coffee, stir in the heavy cream. This will add richness and a velvety texture.

Assembling the Keto Cashew Milk Iced Coffee:

This is the fun part! Now we get to put everything together and enjoy our delicious, keto-friendly iced coffee.

Fill a Glass with Ice: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. The amount of ice you use will depend on your preference. I like to fill the glass almost to the top.
Pour in the Coffee: Gently pour the cooled coffee (or espresso) over the ice.
Add the Sweetened Cashew Milk: Pour the sweetened cashew milk mixture over the coffee.
Stir Well: Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure that the coffee and cashew milk are well combined.
Taste and Adjust: Give your iced coffee a taste. If it's not sweet enough, add a little more sweetener. If it's too strong, add a splash more cashew milk.
Add Toppings (Optional): Now for the finishing touches! You can sprinkle a little unsweetened cocoa powder or cinnamon on top for added flavor and visual appeal. A drizzle of sugar-free caramel sauce is also a delicious option.
Enjoy Immediately: Your keto cashew milk iced coffee is ready to be enjoyed! Sip slowly and savor the refreshing flavors.

Tips and Variations:

Here are a few extra tips and ideas to customize your keto cashew milk iced coffee:

Make Coffee Ice Cubes: To prevent your iced coffee from becoming diluted as the ice melts, try making coffee ice cubes. Simply brew a batch of coffee, let it cool, and then pour it into ice cube trays. Freeze until solid and use these coffee ice cubes instead of regular ice.
Add MCT Oil: For an extra boost of energy and healthy fats, add a tablespoon of MCT oil to your iced coffee. MCT oil is easily digested and can help you stay in ketosis.
Experiment with Flavors: Get creative with your flavorings! Try adding a few drops of peppermint extract for a refreshing minty iced coffee, or a dash of cinnamon for a warm and spicy flavor. You can also use different types of sugar-free syrups to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Use a Milk Frother: For a super frothy and creamy iced coffee, use a milk frother to froth the cashew milk before adding it to the coffee. This will create a latte-like texture.
Make it a Mocha: Add a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the cashew milk mixture for a delicious mocha iced coffee.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
Cold Brew Concentrate: Using cold brew concentrate will give you an even smoother, less acidic flavor. Dilute it with water according to the concentrate's instructions before using it in the recipe.
Different Nut Milks: While this recipe is for cashew milk, you can easily substitute almond milk, coconut milk (from a carton, not the canned variety), or macadamia nut milk. Just be sure to check the nutrition labels to ensure they are unsweetened and keto-friendly.

Storing Leftovers:

While I recommend enjoying your iced coffee fresh, you can store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Keep in mind that the ice will melt and dilute the coffee over time, so it's best to drink it as soon as possible. You can also store the coffee and cashew milk mixture separately and combine them when you're ready to drink.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.

Calories: Approximately 50-80
Net Carbs: 1-3 grams
Fat: 3-6 grams
Protein: 1-2 grams

Enjoy your guilt-free, keto-friendly cashew milk iced coffee! It's the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a refreshing afternoon treat.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Keto Cashew Milk Iced Coffee recipe is more than just a caffeine fix; it's a delicious and guilt-free way to kickstart your day or enjoy a refreshing afternoon treat. I truly believe this is a must-try for anyone following a ketogenic diet, watching their sugar intake, or simply looking for a healthier and more flavorful alternative to traditional iced coffee. The creamy cashew milk, combined with the bold coffee flavor and a touch of sweetness, creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. But why is this recipe a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the incredible taste, it's incredibly easy to make. Seriously, it takes just minutes to whip up a batch, making it perfect for busy mornings or when you need a quick pick-me-up. Plus, it's packed with healthy fats from the cashews, which will keep you feeling full and satisfied for hours. No more mid-morning energy crashes! And let's not forget the versatility – you can easily customize this recipe to suit your own preferences. Speaking of customization, let's talk serving suggestions and variations! For an extra layer of indulgence, try adding a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top. It adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess that perfectly complements the coffee. You could also sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and comforting flavor. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a few drops of sugar-free vanilla extract or almond extract for a unique twist. Another great variation is to use different types of sweeteners. While I personally love using erythritol or monk fruit, you can experiment with stevia or xylitol to find your perfect level of sweetness. Just remember to adjust the amount according to your taste preferences. You can also play around with the coffee itself. Use your favorite blend, whether it's a dark roast for a bolder flavor or a light roast for a more delicate taste. Cold brew coffee works exceptionally well in this recipe, as it's naturally less acidic and has a smoother flavor. For those who prefer a warmer drink, you can easily adapt this recipe to make a hot cashew milk coffee. Simply heat the cashew milk in a saucepan or microwave until warm, then stir in the coffee and sweetener. It's the perfect cozy beverage for chilly mornings or evenings. You can even add a splash of MCT oil for an extra boost of energy and focus. I'm so confident that you'll love this Keto Cashew Milk Iced Coffee recipe that I urge you to give it a try. It's a game-changer for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious and healthy coffee beverage without compromising their dietary goals. Once you try it, I have a feeling it will become a staple in your routine. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and prepare to be amazed. And most importantly, don't forget to share your experience with me! I'd love to hear your thoughts, variations, and any tips you might have. Leave a comment below, tag me in your social media posts, or send me a message. I'm always excited to see how you make this recipe your own. Happy brewing! I can't wait to hear how much you enjoy this creamy, dreamy, keto-friendly coffee creation. Enjoy!