Name: Homemade Coffee Creamer
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk; 1 3/4 cups milk (whole, 2%, or any milk of choice); 1 to 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or other flavorings like almond, hazelnut, or peppermint extract)

Why You’ll Love Homemade Coffee Creamer Recipe

This recipe is:
• Made with simple pantry ingredients you likely already have.
• Customizable — add your favorite flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or caramel.
• Free from artificial additives and preservatives found in many commercial creamers.
• Easy to make and store for weeks in the fridge.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

4 cups whole milk (or milk of choice)
1/2 cup dark brown sugar (or preferred sweetener)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract (or vanilla bean paste)

Directions

In a small heavy‑bottomed saucepan, combine 2 cups of milk and the brown sugar.
Heat over low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Slowly bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to reduce slightly, about 30–35 minutes, without stirring so it develops a light golden hue.
Remove from heat and let the mixture cool until it is warm to the touch.
Stir in the remaining 2 cups of milk and the vanilla extract until well combined.
Transfer the creamer to a quart‑sized lidded container and refrigerate. Shake well before using.

Servings and timing

Servings: About 3 3/4 cups (roughly 60 servings at 1 tablespoon each)
Cook time: ~35 minutes
Total time: ~35 minutes

Variations

• Vanilla Bean: Use vanilla bean paste or scrape the seeds from a vanilla bean for a richer vanilla flavor.
• Brown Sugar Cinnamon: Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth and depth.
• Caramel: Stir in caramel sauce after heating for a caramel‑flavored creamer.
• Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin pie spice and a bit of pumpkin puree for seasonal flair.
• Dairy‑Free: Substitute your favorite non‑dairy milk (almond, oat, coconut) and sweetener for a vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

Store your homemade coffee creamer in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Use within about a week, or up to the sell‑by date of the milk you used. Shake well before each use as natural separation may occur. Do not freeze dairy‑based creamers, as freezing can affect texture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes. Whole milk gives the creamer richness, but you can use 2%, skim, half‑and‑half, or non‑dairy alternatives.

How long does homemade coffee creamer last in the fridge?

It typically keeps up to about a week, though you can follow the sell‑by date on the milk for guidance.

Can I make this sugar‑free?

Yes. Substitute sugar with a sugar‑free sweetener of choice and adjust to taste.

Can I flavor this creamer differently?

Absolutely. Try cinnamon, caramel, hazelnut, pumpkin spice, or almond extracts for variation.

Do I need to heat the milk mixture?

Heating helps dissolve the sugar and slightly reduce the milk for a richer flavor, but a no‑heat version using simply stirred ingredients can work too.

Why does my creamer separate in the fridge?

Natural separation can occur; shaking the container before use will remix the ingredients.

Can I freeze homemade coffee creamer?

Freezing is not recommended for dairy‑based creamers because the texture may change.

Is this recipe suitable for lactose‑intolerant individuals?

Yes, if you use lactose‑free milk or a non‑dairy alternative.

Can I make a thicker creamer for cold brew?

Using half‑and‑half or adding more cream will result in a thicker, richer creamer.

What’s the best container to store homemade creamer?

A glass jar with a tight‑fitting lid works best to keep the creamer fresh and easy to shake.

Conclusion

This homemade coffee creamer recipe is a versatile and delicious way to personalize your daily coffee. With basic ingredients and simple steps, you’ll enjoy a creamy, flavorful creamer without the additives found in many store‑bought versions. Customize it to suit your taste and savor every sip.