Bye, Bye Store-Bought Creamer

For those of you who like a little cream in your coffee, or maybe just want to add a hint of sweet or subtle flavor, you no longer have to go to the store to find it! When you start out with a delicious, quality cup of coffee why not maintain the quality of the cup by controlling what you add? Yes, there are seemingly endless possibilities of coffee creamer flavors out there now but what's really in that sugar-free, low-fat white chocolate mocha flavored creamer? I'm not claiming that all of the following recipes are sugar-free, or low-fat, but at least your saving yourself from chemical additives. Plus, using your good sense to make your own creamer, can help put some extra dollars back into your budget! So if you're curious, tempted, or just looking for an easy DIY, try some of the recipes below and see just how easy it is! My current favorite is the homemade vanilla cinnamon creamer... what will be yours?

Simple DIY Coffee Creamer Base: 

(Start with this one)

• 1 14 oz. can sweetened-condensed milk (you can use regular or fat-free) 
• 1 1/2 cups milk (recipe works with rice and soy as well as dairy) 

Mix the ingredients together well, thoroughly whisking so that the ingredients are blended. The mixture will keep for up to 2 weeks in an airtight container in the refrigerator! 

Now, if you'd like to add a little flavor... 

Vanilla Cinnamon (uncooked) Creamer:

(Add to the base) 

• 1 tbsp. Vanilla extract 
• 1/2 tsp. Cinnamon 

Simply add ingredients to your base, mix thoroughly and enjoy! 

Salted Chocolate Coffee Creamer: 

(Add to the base)

• 1/2 tsp. Salt 
• 1 tbsp. Unsweetened cocoa powder 
• 1 tbsp. Agave nectar or Honey 
• 1 tsp. Water 

In a small pot mix together ingredients, slowly stirring over low-medium heat. Once all of the ingredients are incorporated slowly add to your base, stirring again to ensure that all the ingredients are well blended. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator! 

French Vanilla Coffee Creamer: 

(Add to the base) 

• 2 tsp. Vanilla extract (or syrup if you want a stronger taste) 
• Dash of cinnamon 

Simply mix, shake and serve! You can adjust the vanilla flavor by simply adjusting how much extract or syrup you use. *Also try almond extract, either alone or mixed with the vanilla for a delicious mix. 

Sip, smile, stay awhile