Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee: the perfect guilt-free indulgence to kickstart your day or provide an afternoon pick-me-up! Imagine the rich, nutty aroma of toasted hazelnuts mingling with the bold, invigorating taste of coffee, all served over ice for a refreshingly cool experience. This isn’t just another iced coffee recipe; it’s a delightful journey into the world of keto-friendly flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.

While iced coffee has a long and varied history, enjoyed in different forms across the globe for centuries, the addition of hazelnut elevates it to something truly special. Hazelnuts have been prized since ancient times, symbolizing wisdom and fertility in various cultures. Today, their distinctive flavor is beloved worldwide, and pairing them with coffee is a match made in heaven.

People adore this Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly delicious! The creamy texture, the subtle sweetness (without the sugar!), and the delightful hazelnut notes create a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Secondly, it’s incredibly convenient. You can whip up a batch in minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings or when you need a quick and satisfying treat. Finally, and perhaps most importantly for those following a ketogenic lifestyle, it allows you to enjoy a decadent beverage without derailing your diet. So, ditch the sugary lattes and embrace this healthier, tastier alternative. You won’t regret it!

Ingredients:

1 cup strong brewed coffee, cooled
1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or other keto-friendly milk)
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 tablespoon hazelnut extract (ensure it’s sugar-free)
1-2 tablespoons erythritol or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (optional, for thickening)
Pinch of sea salt
Ice cubes
Optional toppings: sugar-free whipped cream, chopped hazelnuts, sugar-free chocolate shavings

Preparing the Hazelnut Coffee Base:

Okay, let’s get started! The first thing we need to do is make sure our coffee is nice and strong. I usually brew a double-strength batch because the ice and milk will dilute it later. You can use your favorite brewing method French press, drip, pour-over, whatever you prefer. Just make sure it’s cooled down before we move on. Nobody wants a lukewarm iced coffee!

Brew Strong Coffee: Brew 1 cup of strong coffee using your preferred method. Allow it to cool completely. You can even brew it the night before and keep it in the fridge for an extra-chilled treat.
Combine Coffee and Hazelnut Extract: In a small bowl or measuring cup, combine the cooled coffee with the hazelnut extract. Give it a good stir to ensure the extract is evenly distributed. This is where that lovely hazelnut flavor starts to develop!

Creating the Creamy Keto Mixture:

Now for the creamy, dreamy part! This is where we’ll combine the almond milk, heavy cream, sweetener, and xanthan gum (if you’re using it) to create a luscious base for our iced coffee. The xanthan gum is optional, but it really helps to thicken the drink and prevent it from separating. If you don’t have it, don’t worry, it will still taste amazing!

Combine Almond Milk and Heavy Cream: In a separate bowl or shaker, combine the unsweetened almond milk and heavy cream. The ratio here is important for that perfect creamy texture.
Add Sweetener and Xanthan Gum (Optional): Add the erythritol (or your preferred keto-friendly sweetener) and xanthan gum (if using) to the almond milk and heavy cream mixture. Start with 1 tablespoon of sweetener and adjust to taste. If you’re using xanthan gum, make sure to whisk it in really well to prevent clumping. A little goes a long way!
Whisk or Shake Vigorously: Whisk the mixture vigorously until the sweetener is fully dissolved and the xanthan gum (if using) is incorporated. If you’re using a shaker, make sure the lid is on tight and shake well for about 30 seconds. This will help to create a smooth and creamy texture.
Add a Pinch of Salt: A tiny pinch of sea salt might seem odd, but it really enhances the sweetness and balances the flavors. Trust me on this one!

Assembling the Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee:

Alright, we’re in the home stretch! Now it’s time to put everything together and enjoy our delicious keto hazelnut iced coffee. This is the best part, right?

Fill Glass with Ice: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. The amount of ice you use will depend on how cold you like your iced coffee. I usually fill the glass about two-thirds full.
Pour in the Hazelnut Coffee: Pour the hazelnut coffee mixture over the ice. Leave some room at the top for the creamy mixture.
Pour in the Creamy Keto Mixture: Gently pour the creamy keto mixture over the coffee. You can pour it slowly to create a layered effect, or just pour it all in at once. It’s up to you!
Stir Gently: Stir the iced coffee gently to combine all the ingredients. Be careful not to over-stir, as this can cause the ice to melt too quickly.

Optional Toppings and Variations:

Now, let’s talk about toppings! This is where you can really get creative and customize your keto hazelnut iced coffee to your liking. Here are a few of my favorite options:

Sugar-Free Whipped Cream: A dollop of sugar-free whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence and makes the iced coffee even more decadent.
Chopped Hazelnuts: A sprinkle of chopped hazelnuts adds a nice crunch and enhances the hazelnut flavor. Make sure they are unsalted.
Sugar-Free Chocolate Shavings: A few sugar-free chocolate shavings add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Cinnamon: A dash of cinnamon adds warmth and spice.
Cocoa Powder: A sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa powder adds a rich chocolate flavor.
Keto Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some keto-friendly caramel sauce for extra sweetness and flavor.

And here are some variations you can try:

Bulletproof Iced Coffee: Add 1 tablespoon of MCT oil or coconut oil and 1 tablespoon of grass-fed butter to the coffee before blending. This will add healthy fats and make the iced coffee even more filling.
Mocha Iced Coffee: Add 1 tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the coffee before blending.
Vanilla Iced Coffee: Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the coffee before blending.
Spiced Iced Coffee: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to the coffee before blending.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee:

Here are a few extra tips and tricks to help you make the perfect keto hazelnut iced coffee every time:

Use High-Quality Coffee: The better the coffee, the better the iced coffee will taste. I recommend using freshly roasted beans and grinding them just before brewing.
Adjust Sweetness to Taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to sweetness. Start with 1 tablespoon of sweetener and adjust to taste.
Use a Good Quality Hazelnut Extract: Make sure to use a good quality hazelnut extract that is sugar-free. Some extracts can have a artificial taste.
Don’t Over-Stir: Over-stirring the iced coffee can cause the ice to melt too quickly and dilute the drink.
Use a Straw: Using a straw can help to prevent the ice from melting as quickly.
Make it Ahead: You can make the coffee base and creamy mixture ahead of time and store them in the fridge. This is a great way to save time in the morning.
Experiment with Different Flavors: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavors and toppings to find your perfect keto hazelnut iced coffee.

Enjoy your delicious and refreshing Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee! I hope you love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect way to start your day or enjoy a guilt-free treat any time of day.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee is more than just a drink; it’s a delightful experience that fits perfectly into your keto lifestyle. It’s quick, easy, and unbelievably satisfying, offering a delicious way to beat the heat and get your caffeine fix without derailing your dietary goals. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a refreshing and guilt-free treat. Why is it a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the obvious deliciousness, it’s the perfect blend of convenience and indulgence. We all know how tempting those sugary coffee shop drinks can be, but with this recipe, you can recreate that coffee shop experience at home, knowing exactly what’s going into your body. Plus, the hazelnut flavor adds a touch of sophistication that elevates it beyond your average iced coffee. It’s the perfect pick-me-up for a busy morning, a relaxing afternoon treat, or even a dessert alternative after dinner. Now, let’s talk serving suggestions and variations! While I love this recipe as is, there’s always room for a little personalization. For an extra creamy texture, try using full-fat coconut milk instead of almond milk. If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy twist. You could even experiment with different keto-friendly sweeteners to find your perfect level of sweetness. Another fun variation is to make coffee ice cubes! Simply brew a batch of strong coffee, let it cool, and then freeze it in ice cube trays. This prevents your iced coffee from getting watered down as the ice melts. You can also add a dollop of whipped coconut cream on top for an extra decadent treat. And for those who prefer a stronger coffee flavor, try using espresso instead of regular brewed coffee. The possibilities are endless! Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different flavors and textures. The beauty of this recipe is that it’s so versatile and easy to adapt to your own preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned keto pro or just starting out, this Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee is a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself! I truly believe you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s the perfect way to stay cool, energized, and on track with your keto goals. So, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and give it a try! And most importantly, please share your experience with me! I’d love to hear what you think, what variations you tried, and how you made it your own. Leave a comment below, tag me in your social media posts, or send me a message. I’m always eager to hear from my readers and see how they’re enjoying my recipes. Happy brewing, and enjoy your delicious Keto Hazelnut Iced Coffee! I can’t wait to hear all about it!