There's nothing better than starting the day with a fresh cup of coffee. And thanks to flavored creamers, you can turn your daily cup into a tasty treat! However, store-bought flavored coffee creamers are often full of added sugars, artificial flavorings and preservatives. They also contain dairy, which can be disappointing if you're allergic to dairy, lactose intolerant or vegan. So, why not make it yourself? It's surprisingly easy (and cheap) to whip up flavored coffee creamers at home. This way, you can customize the ingredients and flavors according to your preferences and dietary needs. Keep reading to learn how to make a basic coffee creamer, plus five ways to add flavor.
Basic Coffee Creamer Recipe
Things You’ll Need
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1 cup milk of choice
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1 cup heavy cream, half and half, plant-based creamer, or condensed milk
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1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
Step 1
In a small pot over low heat, combine all three ingredients. Mix for 3 to 5 minutes or until combined. And just like that, you have two cups of homemade creamer!
To make a flavored version, simply add extra ingredients. Here are five delicious ideas to get you started:
Peanut Butter Cup Coffee Creamer
Things You’ll Need
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2 cups plain creamer
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1/4 cup peanut butter
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1/4 cup chocolate chips or shavings
Step 1
Make the basic coffee creamer over low heat. Add the peanut butter and chocolate chips. Whisk until melted.
Step 2
Let cool and blend in a blender until smooth.
Tip
If you're allergic to peanuts, replace the peanut butter with cashew, almond, or sunflower seed butter. You can also use cocoa powder if you don't have chocolate chips or shavings.
French Vanilla Coffee Creamer
Things You’ll Need
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2 cups plain creamer
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1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
Step 1
Make the basic coffee creamer. Add an extra tablespoon of vanilla extract and mix well.
Toasted Marshmallow Coconut Coffee Creamer
Things You’ll Need
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2 cups plain coconut creamer, warm
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15 regular marshmallows
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1/3 cup white, brown, or coconut sugar
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Step 1
Make the basic coffee creamer.
Step 2
Pre-heat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a metal cookie sheet with parchment paper (this will make cleanup much easier). Place 15 marshmallows on the sheet.
Step 3
Toast the marshmallows for 3 to 5 minutes. They will toast quickly, so keep an eye on them.
Step 4
Place a pot over low heat. Spoon the melted marshmallows into the pot. This will be messy, so work quickly. If the marshmallows toughen up, pop them back in the oven for another 15 to 30 seconds.
Step 5
Add the sugar. Mix until the marshmallows and sugar melt together. Add the vanilla extract and warm coconut creamer. Stir until all of the ingredients are combined.
Tip
To make a basic coconut creamer, use coconut milk and/or canned coconut cream. However, if you're allergic to coconut or don't like the taste, feel free to make a basic creamer with milk and cream of your choice. Next, follow the above recipe as usual. The result will be a toasted marshmallow creamer without the coconut flavor.
Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer
Things You’ll Need
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2 cups plain coffee creamer
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1/3 to 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
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1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
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1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Step 1
Make the basic coffee creamer over low heat. Add the pumpkin puree, spices and vanilla extract. Mix until the pumpkin puree dissolves.
Peppermint Mocha Coffee Creamer
Things You’ll Need
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2 cups plain coffee creamer
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1/3 to 1/2 cup chocolate chips (or 1/3 cup cocoa powder)
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1/4 teaspoon espresso powder
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1/2 – 1 teaspoon peppermint extract, to taste
Step 1
Make the basic coffee creamer over low heat. Add the chocolate chips, espresso powder and peppermint extract. Mix until the chocolate completely melts. If you're using cocoa powder, you might need to use a blender to fully combine the ingredients.
Remember, these recipes are simply guides. Don't hesitate to adjust the ingredients according to your taste buds or what you have on hand.
Your homemade coffee creamer will last for 1 week in the refrigerator. Some versions, like the toasted marshmallow creamer, will need a good mix or shake before using. Enjoy!