How to Make Iced Coffee with Oat Milk: 3 Methods

Oat milk is slowly replacing cow's milk in coffee shops, and baristas love it! Whether you're lactose intolerant, vegan, or just want to enjoy a healthier coffee , oat milk is an excellent substitute packed with nutrients and dietary fiber.

There are many brands of oat milk, but not all are created equal. Some are too watery and others lack flavor. You're looking for a creamy, smooth texture without a grainy or cereal taste. Plus, plant-based milks, like oat milk, contain little to no fat, which is essential for creating foam.

These iced coffee recipes with oat milk are simple, easy, and refreshing. They're just what you need when you want a healthy boost on a hot summer day!

Why is Oat Milk the Perfect Companion to Coffee?

Before we dive into the recipes, let's talk about why oat milk has become such a popular choice among coffee lovers:

• Creamy Texture: Oat milk has a naturally creamy consistency that mimics cow's milk, making it ideal for coffee drinks.
• Neutral flavor: Unlike some plant-based milks, oat milk has a subtle flavor that doesn't overpower the coffee.
• Environmentally friendly: Oat production requires less water and land compared to cow's milk and other plant-based milks.
• Nutritious: Oat milk is often fortified with vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice.

Now that we've covered the basics, let's explore three delicious ways to make Iced Coffee with oat milk!

Method 1: Classic Cold Brew with Oat Milk

This method is perfect for those who enjoy a smooth, less acidic coffee experience. The cold brew concentrate combined with creamy oat milk creates a refreshing and balanced beverage.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
• 4 cups of cold water
• Oat milk
• Ice cubes
• Optional: sweetener to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large jar or pitcher, combine the ground coffee and cold water.
2. Stir gently to ensure all grains are saturated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for 12-24 hours.
4. Strain the coffee concentrate through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter.
5. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
6. Pour 1/2 cup of cold brew concentrate over ice.
7. Add 1/2 cup of oat milk and stir well.
8. Taste and add sweetener if desired.

Pro tip: Make a larger batch of cold brew concentrate and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks. This way, you'll always have something ready for your iced coffee cravings!

Method 2: Instant Iced Coffee with Oat Milk

For those mornings when you need your caffeine fix as quickly as possible, this method is a quick and easy solution.

Ingredients:

• 1-2 tablespoons of instant coffee
• 1/4 cup hot water
• 3/4 cup cold oat milk
• Ice cubes
• Optional: sweetener to taste

Instructions:

1. In a glass, dissolve the instant coffee in hot water.
2. Add some ice cubes to quickly cool the coffee.
3. Pour in the cold oat milk and stir well.
4. Add more ice cubes to fill the glass.
5. Taste and add sweetener if desired.

Barista Secret: For an extra creamy texture, use a handheld milk frother to mix the coffee and oat milk. This creates a smoother, more café-like experience!

Method 3: Iced Coffee Frappe with Oat Milk

This indulgent method is perfect for those hot summer days when you're craving something special. It's like a healthier, homemade version of your favorite coffee shop frappe!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
• 1 cup of oat milk
• 2-3 tablespoons of sweetener (maple syrup, agave, or sugar)
• 2 cups of ice cubes
• Optional: 1 scoop of vanilla protein powder for added nutrients

Instructions:

1. Brew a strong cup of coffee and let it cool to room temperature.
2. In a blender, combine the cooled coffee, oat milk, sweetener, and ice cubes.
3. If using, add the scoop of vanilla protein powder.
4. Blend at high speed until smooth and foamy.
5. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.

Flavor Boost: For a mocha twist, add 1-2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the blender. You can also experiment with different flavored syrups or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg!

Tips for a Perfect Iced Coffee with Oat Milk

To improve your iced coffee game, keep these tips in mind:

• Choose the right oat milk: Look for barista-style oat milk, which is formulated to work well with coffee and won't separate when heated.
• Experiment with coffee to milk ratios: Everyone has different preferences, so try different ratios to find your perfect balance.
• Make coffee cubes: Freeze leftover coffee in an ice cube tray. Use these instead of regular ice cubes to avoid dilution as they melt.
• Sweeten smart: If you like your coffee sweet, use simple syrup or liquid sweeteners that dissolve easily in cold drinks.
• Decorate creatively: Add a sprinkle of cinnamon, a dollop of whipped coconut cream, or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a special touch.

The Health Benefits of Iced Coffee with Oat Milk

Not only is Iced Coffee with oat milk delicious, but it also has some health benefits:

• Fewer calories: Oat milk generally has fewer calories than whole milk, making it a great choice for those watching their calorie intake.
• Rich in fiber: Oats are a good source of soluble fiber, which can help improve digestion and keep you feeling full.
• Healthy Heart: Beta-glucans in oats have been shown to help reduce cholesterol levels.
• Antioxidant Boost: Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage.

According to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition , regularly consuming oat milk can lead to a 5% reduction in total and LDL cholesterol levels. Combined with the potential health benefits of moderate coffee consumption, your iced coffee with oat milk could be doing your body a favor.