Forget Coffee Creamer — This $2 Canned Pantry Staple Is Just As Creamy, And Adds A Touch Of Sweetness

If you're a coffee aficionado, drinking it black is probably a daily occurrence for you. For the rest of us, every cup needs a splash of creamer to make it perfect. While the habit isn't as expensive as visiting a cafe everyday, buying quality store bought coffee creamers frequently does add up. Thankfully, canned coconut milk is an inexpensive, luscious addition to your cup of Joe that you probably already have.

Coconut milk has proven itself to be an incredible thickener for soups, as well as a delicious tropical ingredient in desserts, so why not try it in coffee? Nature's version of heavy cream has a smooth body, with earthy nuances that are sure to elevate your daily brew. Best of all, there are plenty of great canned coconut milk picks that only cost about two bucks.

For a velvety finish in your coffee, opt for full fat coconut milk. The ingredient is prone to solidifying slightly in the can, so heat it up on the stove and give it a good stir. Once both the coffee and coconut milk have cooled slightly, gently pour the milk into the brew. If you like your creamer to have an airiness to it, hit it with a milk frother or blend it with a dash of coconut oil. Once well incorporated, your coffee should have a silkier mouthfeel and nutty flavor.

The earthy taste from the milk definitely tastes great with coffee, but you can accentuate the notes further with extra ingredients. If you're using unsweetened coconut milk, throw it in the blender or food processor with your choice of sweetener. Honey, maple syrup, date paste, or agave nectar give the homemade creamer a candied taste, while amping up the milk's nuttier notes.

To give it an extra boost, pour some vanilla, almond, or hazelnut extract. A hint of spice never hurts when making cozy drinks like a dirty chai latte or homemade cappuccino. When simmering the coconut milk, add a pinch of nutmeg, cinnamon, cardamom, and allspice. If you favor a brighter take on coffee, use coconut milk to make some vegan orange creamsicle coffee creamer.

If you're not using up the creamer all at once, place it in a mason jar or other airtight container. When stored in the fridge properly, the coconut milk creamer should last up to 10 days. Fattier coconut milk may harden slightly when chilled, so gently heat it up in the microwave or on the stove before using it.