Homemade Coffee Creamer Recipe
Introduction
This homemade coffee creamer is a simple, delicious way to elevate your morning brew. Made with just a few pantry staples, it’s creamy, sweet, and infused with vanilla flavor that beats store-bought options. Ready in under an hour, it’s perfect for coffee lovers who enjoy customizing their creamer at home.
Ingredients
- 4 cups whole milk, divided (or your milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (or your sweetener of choice)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk and the dark brown sugar. Place over low heat and stir gently until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Step 2: Let the mixture simmer slowly without stirring for 30 to 35 minutes, until it reduces to about 3/4 of the original volume (approximately 1 1/2 cups) and turns a light golden brown. During simmering, skim off any foam or film that forms on the surface and discard it.
- Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the milk syrup to cool until warm to the touch.
- Step 4: Stir in the remaining 2 cups of milk and the vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Step 5: Transfer the creamer to a quart-sized container with a lid and refrigerate until chilled. Shake well before each use.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer creamer, substitute half of the milk with heavy cream or evaporated milk.
- Try using different sweeteners such as maple syrup or honey for unique flavor profiles.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg along with the vanilla for a spiced twist.
- If you prefer a thicker texture, simmer the milk mixture a little longer to reduce it further, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Storage
Store the coffee creamer in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for as long as the milk you used is good, typically up to 5 to 7 days. Before using, give it a good shake to recombine any separation. Reheat gently if you prefer warm creamer, but be careful not to boil it.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use non-dairy milk to make this creamer?
Yes, you can use non-dairy alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may vary slightly, and simmering times might be shorter as these milks can reduce differently than dairy milk.
Why does the creamer form a film or foam during simmering?
The film or foam is natural proteins and fats in the milk separating as it heats. Skimming it off helps keep the creamer smooth and prevents any burnt flavors from developing.
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Homemade Coffee Creamer Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 3 1/2 cups 1x
Description
This homemade coffee creamer recipe creates a rich, smooth, and lightly sweetened creamer perfect for enhancing your morning coffee. Made with simple ingredients including whole milk, dark brown sugar, and vanilla extract, it is gently simmered to develop a deep caramel-like flavor and creamy texture without any preservatives or artificial additives.
Ingredients
Milk Mixture
- 4 cups whole milk, divided (or your milk of choice)
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar (or your sweetener of choice)
Flavoring
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)
Instructions
- Combine milk and sugar: In a small, heavy-bottomed saucepan, add 2 cups of milk and 1/2 cup dark brown sugar. Place the pan over low heat.
- Simmer and reduce: Slowly bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally at first to dissolve the sugar. Once dissolved, avoid stirring as the mixture simmers for about 30 to 35 minutes until it reduces to approximately 3/4 of the original volume, around 1 1/2 cups. The mixture will develop a light golden brown color.
- Remove foam: During simmering, you may notice foam or film forming on the surface. Gently skim off the foam with a spoon and discard it to ensure a smooth creamer.
- Cool the milk syrup: Once reduced, remove the saucepan from heat and allow the milk syrup to cool until it is warm to the touch.
- Combine remaining milk and vanilla: Add the remaining 2 cups of milk and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract to the cooled milk syrup. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients.
- Store properly: Pour the creamer into a quart-sized airtight container and refrigerate. Use within the sell-by date of the milk used for best quality and safety.
Notes
- You can substitute whole milk with any milk of your choice, including plant-based alternatives, but the texture and richness may vary.
- Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar or using your preferred sweetener.
- Vanilla bean paste can be used instead of vanilla extract for a more intense vanilla flavor.
- Do not stir the milk mixture during simmering to prevent scorching and to allow proper caramelization.
- Store the creamer in the refrigerator and use within the recommended date based on the milk used.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: homemade coffee creamer, dairy creamer, vanilla coffee creamer, brown sugar creamer, coffee enhancer
