Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink

Name: Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups brewed coffee, cooled; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons sugar substitute (to taste); 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice); Ice cubes; Optional: whipped cream for topping

Highlighted under: Wellness Table Creations

I love starting my hot days with a refreshing Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink. This delightful beverage combines the rich essence of coffee with just the right amount of vanilla sweetness, all while keeping the calorie count low. As someone who enjoys indulging in simple pleasures, this drink is my go-to for a cool afternoon pick-me-up. With just a handful of ingredients and a few minutes of prep time, I can easily whip up a satisfying drink that keeps me rejuvenated and energized throughout the day.

Created by

Phoebe Drake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T17:41:34.935Z

When I first experimented with making this iced coffee at home, I was amazed at how easily I could achieve a café-quality drink without the guilt of heavy calories. Steeping the coffee overnight allows the flavors to develop fully, resulting in a smooth, bold taste that pairs perfectly with vanilla. I learned that using a sugar substitute gives it that sweet kick without unnecessary calories.

This recipe has become a staple for me, especially during summer. I love adding a splash of almond milk to enhance the creaminess while keeping it light. The best part? I can customize the sweetness to my liking, making it a satisfying treat that I never tire of!

Why You'll Love This Drink
Rich coffee flavor balanced perfectly with sweet vanilla.
Low in calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy mornings.

Crafting the Perfect Brew

Choosing the right coffee is critical to achieving a flavor that shines through in your Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink. Opt for a medium to dark roast, as they provide a robust base that complements the sweetness of the vanilla. Brewing your coffee using a drip method or a French press usually results in a richer flavor. If you have a coffee maker with a timer feature, brewing your coffee the night before can enhance its taste further, as it allows the flavors to deepen during the cooling process.

Letting the brewed coffee cool to room temperature might seem like a trivial step, but it greatly affects your drink's overall enjoyment. Utilize a refrigerator to chill the coffee if you're short on time; this will help maintain the drink's refreshing quality. Ideally, you want the coffee to be cold but not frozen, which would dilute the flavor when ice is added. The perfect temperature should be around 40°F (4°C) when mixing your ingredients.

Ingredient Insights

Vanilla extract is a key player in this recipe, providing aromatic sweetness without the added calories of traditional syrups. When selecting vanilla extract, look for pure vanilla rather than imitation vanilla for a more authentic flavor. If you're looking for alternatives, consider using vanilla bean paste for an intensified flavor experience—a little goes a long way, so start with half the amount of extract called for.

The choice of milk can significantly alter the drink's creaminess and flavor profile. Unsweetened almond milk is a fantastic low-calorie option, but if you're in the mood for a richer texture, you could use oat milk or coconut milk. Just be mindful that these alternatives can have varying sweetness levels, so adjust the sugar substitute accordingly to maintain the intended flavor balance. If you want to keep it dairy-free, ensure your whipped cream topping is also plant-based.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink

Ingredients

2 cups brewed coffee, cooled
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons sugar substitute (to taste)
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or milk of choice)
Ice cubes
Optional: whipped cream for topping

Mix and match your ingredients to suit your taste!

Instructions

Instructions for Making Iced Vanilla Coffee

Prepare Coffee

Brew your coffee as usual and let it cool to room temperature. For the best flavor, consider brewing it the night before and refrigerating.

Mix Ingredients

In a mixing glass, combine the cooled coffee, vanilla extract, and sugar substitute. Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.

Serve with Ice

Fill two glasses with ice cubes and pour the coffee mixture over the ice. Top each glass with almond milk.

Garnish (Optional)

Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra touch of indulgence, if desired.

Enjoy your refreshing iced vanilla coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a dash of cinnamon or a few coffee beans as garnish.

Storing and Making Ahead

One of the advantages of the Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink is its make-ahead capabilities. Prepare the coffee mixture in advance, combining the coffee, vanilla, and sugar substitute, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes it an ideal option for busy mornings—you can simply pour it over ice and add your milk when you're ready to enjoy your drink.

If you're considering batch-making this beverage for a gathering, doubling or tripling the recipe is easily achievable. Just ensure you keep proportions consistent; for every 2 cups of coffee, maintain the same ratio of vanilla and sugar substitute. This approach not only saves time but also allows your guests to indulge in a refreshing treat without compromising dietary goals.

Creative Variations

Experimenting with flavors is part of what makes this drink versatile. For a mocha twist, add a tablespoon of cocoa powder or chocolate-flavored sugar substitute to the coffee mixture. This adds a delightful chocolate undertone that pairs beautifully with the vanilla and coffee, perfect for those who crave a bit of decadence without the extra calories.

If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider incorporating a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices complement the sweetness of the vanilla and add a cozy warmth to your drink. Start with a pinch, as a little can go a long way, and adjust according to your taste preference. This little hack not only enhances the flavor but can also provide additional health benefits by enhancing metabolism.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use any milk of your choice, but using unsweetened milk will keep the calorie count low.

→ How can I make it sweeter?

Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar substitute or add natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, but be mindful of the calorie count.

→ Is it possible to make this drink dairy-free?

Absolutely! Just use plant-based milk, such as almond, coconut, or oat milk, instead of regular milk.

→ Can I prepare this drink in advance?

Yes, you can brew the coffee ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. Just mix it with the other ingredients right before serving.