Cold coffee is a refreshing and stimulating summer drink, but the addition of milk can turn it into a classic “Iced Coffee” and elevate it to a whole new level of flavor and creaminess. With so many types of milk to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to use. In this article, we’ll delve into the different types of milk you can use with iced coffee, their unique characteristics, and the effects they have on the flavor of your coffee.
Whole Milk
Whole milk is a classic choice for iced coffee, and for good reason. Its rich, creamy texture and subtle sweetness complement the bold flavours of the coffee perfectly. Whole milk contains around 3.5% fat, which adds a velvety smoothness to the coffee. Whole milk will actually make your coffee sweeter, due to the presence of lactose, around 13 grams in one cup.
If you’re looking for a traditional iced coffee taste, whole milk is an excellent choice.
Alternative milks for iced coffee
Skim Milk
Skim milk, with its virtually zero fat content, is a great option for those watching their calorie intake. While it may lack the richness of whole milk, skim milk still provides a refreshing and creamy texture to the coffee. However, some coffee purists may find that skim milk dilutes the flavour of the coffee slightly, making it taste a little watery.
Almond Milk
For those with dairy allergies or intolerances, almond milk is a popular alternative. Made from almonds and water, almond milk is naturally low in calories and rich in vitamins. Look for unsweetened almond milk to avoid added sugars. But be aware – almond milk does impart a marzipan flavour to the coffee. Great if you like marzipan, not so great if you don’t.
Soy Milk
Soy milk is another popular dairy-free option, made from soybeans and water. It has less flavour than almond milk, with a nutty and slightly sweet taste. Soy milk can be a good choice for those who want a creamy texture without the dairy and a less-dominant flavour. Soy milk may also be sweetened, so be sure to check for taste before adding any more sweetener to your iced coffee.
Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is a creamy and rich option that’s perfect for those who want a dairy-free and vegan-friendly iced coffee. Made from the meat of mature coconuts, coconut milk adds a distinct flavour that’s both creamy and slightly sweet. Use the full-fat version for a richer flavour or the low-fat version for a lighter taste.
Oat Milk
Oat milk is a plant-based milk alternative made from oats and water, and I think it is the least offensive milk alternative. It’s naturally creamy and has a subtle, slightly sweet flavour. Oat milk is a great choice for those with dairy allergies or intolerances, and it’s also a good option for those who want a lower-calorie milk alternative.
Cashew Milk
Cashew milk is another plant-based milk alternative made from cashews and water. It has a creamy texture and a subtle, slightly sweet flavour. Cashew milk is a good choice for those who want a dairy-free and vegan-friendly iced coffee with a rich and creamy texture.
Macadamia Milk
Macadamia milk is a new arrival to the coffee scene. Can you think of a more Australian milk alternative? Macadamia milk adds a luxurious taste and creaminess to your iced coffee, with just a very subtle hint of macadamia. Here’s the hot tip – the flavour of macadamia milk is a perfect pairing with coffee! A relationship that was made in food heaven and one that you should definitely try, hot or cold.
Iced coffee tips and tricks
When using milk with iced coffee, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
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- Experiment with different ratios of coffee to milk to find your perfect balance.
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- Try using a flavoured syrup or sweetener (if you must) to enhance the flavour of your iced coffee.
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- If using a non-dairy milk, you may need to adjust the amount of sweetener you use, as some non-dairy milks can be naturally sweeter than dairy milk.
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- Consider using a milk frother or steam wand to create a creamy, velvety texture, although this will turn your iced coffee into a warm one.
The type of milk you use with iced coffee can greatly impact the flavour and texture of your drink. From classic whole milk to dairy-free alternatives like macadamia milk, there’s a milk out there that is bound to suit your personal taste. Experiment with different types of milk to find your perfect match to elevate your iced coffee game!
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