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: 1 cup brewed coffee, chilled; 1 cup unsweetened almond milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1-2 tablespoons low-calorie sweetener (like Stevia or Monk Fruit); Ice cubes

Highlighted under: Clean Healthy Food Inspiration

I’m always on the lookout for refreshing beverages to enjoy while keeping my calorie count in check. This Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink has become my go-to for those hot days when I want something energizing yet satisfying. The combination of rich coffee and sweet vanilla creates a delightful balance, and using a low-calorie sweetener means I can indulge without guilt. It's incredibly simple to prepare and makes for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up or a relaxing treat after a long day.

Created by

Nicola Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-02-27T13:13:35.665Z

When I created this Low Calorie Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink, I experimented with various sweeteners and coffee-to-milk ratios. I found that using unsweetened almond milk paired beautifully with the vanilla flavor, making it creamy without the extra calories of regular milk. This drink has become my favorite because it keeps me refreshed while satisfying my craving for something sweet.

One key tip I learned is to chill your brewed coffee before serving. When you pour hot coffee over ice, it can dilute the flavor. By cooling it first, I ensure that every sip remains deliciously concentrated. Trust me, it makes a huge difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Refreshing and energizing for warm days
Simple to make with just a few ingredients
A sweet treat without the calories guilt
Customizable with your favorite coffee and milk choices

Perfecting Your Coffee Base

The foundation of this Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink is the brewed coffee, so using quality beans is essential. Opt for a medium roast for a balanced flavor that won’t overpower the vanilla. Brew it using your preferred method—whether it's a French press, drip coffee maker, or espresso machine. For the best taste, let the coffee cool naturally before chilling it in the refrigerator; this helps to preserve the rich, complex flavors of the coffee.

If time is short, consider brewing your coffee in advance and storing it in the refrigerator overnight. Make sure it's well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing any odors from your fridge. This way, you can whip up your Iced Coffee easily on warmer days when you want a refreshing pick-me-up.

Choosing Your Sweetener and Milk

Selecting the right low-calorie sweetener can significantly impact the overall taste of your drink. Stevia tends to have a slight aftertaste for some, whereas Monk Fruit offers a more rounded sweetness that closely mimics natural sugar. I recommend starting with 1 tablespoon and adjusting based on your preferences. Remember, it's easier to add more sweetener later than to mask it if you've added too much at once.

When it comes to milk, unsweetened almond milk is a popular choice for this drink due to its mild flavor and low calorie content. However, you can also use oat milk for a creamier texture or soy milk for added protein. Each type of milk will slightly alter the final texture and flavor, so feel free to experiment until you find your perfect blend.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your iced coffee drink:

Ingredients

1 cup brewed coffee, chilled
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons low-calorie sweetener (like Stevia or Monk Fruit)
Ice cubes

Mix these ingredients together for a refreshing coffee beverage!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your iced coffee:

Brew the Coffee

Brew your coffee as you normally would. Allow it to cool to room temperature and then refrigerate until chilled.

Combine Ingredients

In a large glass, combine the chilled coffee, almond milk, vanilla extract, and desired amount of sweetener. Adjust the sweetness to your taste preference.

Serve Over Ice

Fill another glass with ice cubes and pour the coffee mixture over the ice. Stir well to combine.

Your delicious iced vanilla coffee is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra indulgent treat, top with a dollop of low-calorie whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your iced coffee experience, consider garnishing with a light sprinkle of cocoa powder or cinnamon on top. This not only adds visual appeal but also a delightful aroma as you sip. For those who enjoy a richer drink, a dollop of whipped topping made from a low-calorie alternative could add a touch of indulgence without sabotaging your calorie-conscious goals.

If you want to add a bit of flair, blend the coffee mixture with ice for a frappé-like consistency. This can be especially refreshing on exceptionally hot days as the blended ice creates a velvety texture that is both cooling and satisfying.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Iced Vanilla Coffee Drink can be made ahead of time for busy mornings or spontaneous afternoon cravings. Simply prepare the coffee and milk mixture and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, just pour over ice and stir in any additional sweetener if needed.

For a fun twist, consider freezing leftover coffee into ice cubes and use those in your iced coffee drink. This way, your beverage doesn’t get diluted as the ice melts, maintaining the flavor throughout your sipping experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of almond milk?

Yes, you can use regular milk or any milk alternative you prefer. Just be mindful of the calorie count.

→ How can I store leftover iced coffee?

Store leftover iced coffee in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just shake well before serving.

→ Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! You can switch up the sweetener or use flavored syrups to create different variations.

→ Can I make this drink dairy-free?

Yes, simply use any non-dairy milk like oat, soy, or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.