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Creamy French Vanilla Iced Coffee

creamy french vanilla iced coffee - featured image

A quick and easy recipe for a refreshing, creamy French vanilla iced coffee with homemade vanilla syrup, perfect for summer and family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 ยฝ cups (360 ml) freshly brewed medium or dark roast coffee, cooled
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk (can substitute almond, oat, or soy milk)
  • ยผ cup (60 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 3 tablespoons vanilla syrup (see syrup ingredients below), or to taste
  • Ice cubes (preferably large cubes to avoid quick dilution)
  • Optional: 1 vanilla bean pod, split and scraped
  • Optional: Splash of caramel or hazelnut syrup

Instructions

  1. Brew 1 ยฝ cups (360 ml) of medium or dark roast coffee using a French press or drip coffee maker. Let it cool completely, about 10-15 minutes.
  2. Make the vanilla syrup: In a small saucepan, combine 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar and 1 cup (240 ml) water. Add 1 tablespoon vanilla extract or seeds from 1 vanilla bean pod. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally until sugar dissolves. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and cool to room temperature.
  3. In a pitcher or mixing bowl, combine 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk and ยผ cup (60 ml) heavy cream. Stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract.
  4. Once coffee and syrup are cooled, pour coffee into the milk mixture. Add 3 tablespoons of vanilla syrup (or adjust to taste). Stir well to blend all flavors evenly.
  5. Fill a glass with large ice cubes, pour the creamy French vanilla iced coffee over the ice, stir gently, and serve immediately. Garnish with a vanilla bean or sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Notes

Use freshly brewed coffee for best flavor. Let coffee cool completely before mixing to avoid breaking down vanilla flavor. Large ice cubes melt slower to keep drink flavorful longer. Vanilla syrup can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 weeks. For dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with full-fat coconut or oat milk. Adjust sugar to taste or use sugar substitutes like stevia for sugar-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: iced coffee, French vanilla, creamy coffee, vanilla syrup, summer drink, refreshing coffee, homemade iced coffee