This 2-Ingredient Vanilla Coffee Creamer is Better Than Store-Bought (2024)

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Are you the kind of coffee drinker who needs a splash (sometimes light, sometimes heavy) of flavored creamer before you can even consider drinking your morning cup of java? For you, it’s the perfect way to cut through coffee’s acidity while also adding a little sweetness. It’s tempting to buy the pre-made jug at the store, but what if I told you there was a way to make your own delicious version at home with only two ingredients?

This "Secret" Ingredient Makes the Best Coffee Creamer

If you want to make delicious coffee creamer at home all you’ll need is some vanilla extract and a can of evaporated milk. Yes, I’m talking about the stuff you buy to make a pumpkin pie. Evaporated milk is the perfect base for homemade creamer because it’s essentially concentrated milk, made by simmering milk until it’s reduced by 60 percent. This results in milk that’s creamy, rich, and even slightly sweet. It’s the perfect stand-in for pre-made creamers!

But What About Cost?

Making your own creamer will likely cost about one or two more dollars than store-bought versions, but it’s still a deal (you’ll spend less if you already have vanilla extract around). Many store-bought creamers contain stabilizers, preservatives and ingredients that improve mouthfeel. Some also use corn syrup and water.

Those extra ingredients take up space, space that you’re paying for. I prefer my creamer to not have those things, that’s why making my own makes sense. I’ll spend that extra dollar on a yummy vanilla extract instead of corn syrup, water, and guar gum.

How To Make My 2-Ingredient Coffee Creamer

The best part of this recipe is that it requires zero cooking. It’s as simple as opening a bottle and a can and you’re seconds away from a delicious, creamy coffee experience.

If you want to make a single serving, simply combine 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract with 1 tablespoon evaporated milk. If you’d like a sweet version, add 1 teaspoon simple syrup or other liquid sweetener like honey or agave syrup.

If you want to use the whole (12-ounce) can of evaporated milk, simply mix it with 2 tablespoons vanilla extract. Add simple syrup—1/2 to 1 teaspoon per 1 tablespoon serving— or just granulated sugar to taste when mixing the creamer into your morning cup.

Tips for Making 2-Ingredient Coffee Creamer

• Use quality vanilla extract—If it makes sense for your budget, buy pure vanilla extract. You may actually be able to use less. Since it’s the prevailing flavor in this creamer, you’ll want something that tastes delicious.
• Leave the sweetener out for big batches—Some days I want sweet, other days I don’t. That’s why I recommend adding the sweetener not to the creamer, but to the coffee. This allows others in your house to customize too.
• Add more flavor—This is a recipe for a vanilla-flavored creamer, but have fun and experiment. Add some ground cinnamon or other spices for a flavor boost. Or try a bit of unsweetened cocoa powder for a mocha-style version.