One thing to note: These milk alternatives work well in frozen coffee drinks, but may not be ideal in hot applications that require frothed, fluffy milk, such as a latte. Because of its protein and fat content, whole milk provides the ideal substance for lattes. Many local coffee shops offer soy lattes, which are as delicious as regular lattes, but the milk doesn't take on quite the same airy, cloud-like texture as dairy milk.
More: 7 Healthy Milk Alternatives
Step 3: Once in a While, Top Your Healthier Frozen Coffee Drink With Real Whipped Cream
Buy the smallest container of all-natural heavy whipping cream (no additives, and nothing out of a can or plastic tub) you can find, and beat the cream with an electric beater until stiff peaks form.
One tablespoon of heavy whipping cream contains 52 calories and 5.5 grams of fat (3.5 grams of saturated fat). Yes, this is a lot of calories and fat for a small amount of cream, but this once-in-a-while treat won't make an impact on your health or waistline if you're making the above healthy swaps, eating right during the rest of the day, and sticking to your exercise program. Three reasons the full-fat, full-sugar frozen drinks at your favorite coffee shop are so addictive: both caffeine and sugar are habit-forming substances, and the fat in the milk and cream used in these drinks allow the caffeine and sugar to linger on your tongue so you can savor the flavor for longer.
More: 4 Comfort Food Tweaks That Won't Widen Your Waist
Frozen Coffee and Tea Drink Recipes
Chocolate Almond Frappuccino
- 1 cups brewed coffee or 1 to 2 shots of espresso (cooled)
- 1/2 cup milk of your choice
- 3 teaspoons almond syrup
- 2 cups ice cubes
- Drizzle of chocolate syrup
Blend together coffee, milk, syrup and ice until smooth. Pour into glass and top with chocolate syrup drizzle.
