My love for coffee knows no bounds, but as a vegan, I sometimes find it challenging to find dairy-free alternatives that satisfy my cravings. That’s where oat milk comes in. It’s creamy, delicious, and adds the perfect touch to my daily cup of joe. But why stop at a regular hot cup of coffee when you can enjoy its refreshing iced version? In this article, I will guide you through the process of making oat milk iced coffee, a refreshing vegan option that will leave you wanting more.
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s make sure we have all the ingredients needed. To make oat milk iced coffee, you will need the following:
1. Oat Milk
Oat milk is the star of this recipe. You can either buy it from a store or make your own at home. Making oat milk at home is relatively simple and requires rolled oats and water. However, if you prefer the convenience of store-bought oat milk, go ahead and grab your favorite brand.
2. Coffee
Choose your preferred coffee variety. Whether it’s instant coffee, brewed coffee, or espresso, make sure it’s strong enough to stand up to the flavors of the oat milk and any additional ingredients you may add.
3. Sweetener
To sweeten your oat milk iced coffee, you can use natural alternatives like maple syrup, agave nectar, or even dates. Experiment with different sweeteners to find your perfect balance of sweetness.
4. Ice
Of course, we can’t have an iced coffee without ice. Make sure you have enough ice cubes to keep your drink cold and refreshing.
Prepare Your Oat Milk
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s move on to making our oat milk. You can skip this step if you’re using store-bought oat milk.
To make oat milk at home, follow these simple steps:
1. Soak the Oats
Take 1 cup of rolled oats and soak them in 3 cups of water for about 30 minutes. This will soften the oats and make them easier to blend.
2. Blend It Up
After soaking, drain the oats and add them to a blender with 3 cups of fresh water. Blend on high speed for about 2 minutes until the mixture becomes creamy and smooth.
3. Strain the Milk
Place a nut milk bag or cheesecloth over a jug or bowl. Pour the oat mixture into the bag or cloth, and carefully squeeze out the milk. Continue this process until all the liquid has been strained, leaving behind the oat pulp.
Brew Your Coffee
While you can’t have iced coffee without coffee, the brewing method is entirely up to you. Use your preferred brewing method, whether it’s a traditional coffee maker, French press, or espresso machine, to make a strong cup of coffee. Ensure that the coffee is cooled before adding it to your iced coffee.
Combine and Sweeten
Now that we have our oat milk and coffee ready, it’s time to bring the two together.
1. Mix Coffee and Oat Milk
Fill a glass with ice cubes, leaving enough space at the top for your desired amount of coffee and milk. Pour in the cooled coffee and follow it up with the oat milk. Stir gently to combine the two.
2. Sweeten to Taste
Taste your oat milk iced coffee, and if desired, add your preferred sweetener. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preferences. Give it a final stir to ensure the sweetener is well mixed.
Add a Flavorful Twist
While oat milk iced coffee is already delicious on its own, you can take it to the next level by adding various flavorings. Here are a few ideas to inspire you:
1. Vanilla Extract
Add a splash of vanilla extract to infuse your iced coffee with a subtle and fragrant twist. It pairs exceptionally well with the creamy notes of oat milk.
2. Cinnamon or Nutmeg
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg over your iced coffee for a warm, comforting flavor. This addition is perfect for those chilly mornings or when you’re craving a bit of spice.
3. Cocoa Powder
For all the chocolate lovers out there, a teaspoon of cocoa powder can transform your oat milk iced coffee into a mocha-like treat. Stir it in thoroughly for a rich and indulgent experience.
Enjoy Your Vegan Delight
Now that your oat milk iced coffee is beautifully prepared, take a moment to savor your creation. Find a comfortable spot, kick back, and enjoy the refreshing vegan goodness you’ve crafted. Whether it’s a warm summer day or you simply prefer cold beverages year-round, oat milk iced coffee is the perfect companion.
So, the next time you’re craving a refreshing vegan option, turn to oat milk iced coffee. With its creamy texture, robust coffee flavor, and endless customization options, it’s sure to become your new favorite. Plus, by making it at home, you have full control over the ingredients, ensuring that your vegan lifestyle is upheld. So, gather your ingredients, blend up some oat milk, brew a strong cup of coffee, and indulge in this divine fusion of flavors. Cheers to your newfound love for oat milk iced coffee!