French Coffee

Prep: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: French

A rich, creamy French Coffee drink combining instant coffee, milk, ice cream, and a touch of sweetness, perfect for a luxurious treat or entertaining guests.

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Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup instant coffee
  • 2 cups boiling water
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 gallon milk
  • 1/2 gallon vanilla ice cream

Instructions

  1. Mix instant coffee, boiling water, and sugar in a large bowl until dissolved.
  2. Add milk and vanilla ice cream to the mixture and stir well.
  3. Pour the mixture into cups.
  4. Top each cup with 2 tablespoons of Cool Whip before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using brewed coffee instead of instant; just adjust the water accordingly. If you like a sweeter drink, feel free to add more sugar. You can also substitute half-and-half for milk for a creamier texture or use almond milk for a dairy-free option. If you're feeling adventurous, try adding a splash of flavored syrup or a dash of cinnamon for extra depth.

Serving Suggestions

Serve French Coffee in clear glass mugs to showcase its creamy texture. It pairs beautifully with a slice of cake or cookies for a delightful afternoon treat. Consider offering a variety of toppings like whipped cream, chocolate shavings, or caramel drizzle for guests to customize their drinks. This recipe also makes a fun addition to brunch menus alongside lighter fare or even a savory dish like Chicken Arlette.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover French Coffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to avoid scorching. If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until warm. Be mindful that the ice cream may separate slightly upon reheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of French Coffee contains roughly 3052 calories, with 23g protein, 567g carbohydrates, and 80g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (65% of the Daily Value), protein (47% of the Daily Value), and iron (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2302mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).

3052 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 23.4g 47% DV
Total Fat 80.4g 100% DV
Carbs 566.7g 100% DV
Fiber 18.1g 65% DV
Sugar 352.2g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2302.3mg 100% DV
Potassium 876.6mg 19% DV
Cholesterol 28.8mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 267.6mcg 30% DV
Vitamin C 20.1mg 22% DV
Vitamin D 1mcg 5% DV
Calcium 399mg 31% DV
Iron 8mg 45% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without sugar?

Yes, you can definitely make French Coffee without sugar. You can use sugar substitutes like stevia or monk fruit sweetener for a lower-calorie option. Another alternative is to use flavored syrups, which can add sweetness along with their unique flavors, enhancing the overall taste of the coffee.

How many servings does this recipe make?

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings, depending on the size of your cups. If you're serving a crowd, you can easily double the ingredients to make a larger batch. Just ensure you have a big enough bowl for mixing and enough cups for serving.

Can I freeze leftover French Coffee?

While you can freeze French Coffee, the texture may change once thawed, especially due to the milk and ice cream. If you decide to freeze it, pour it into ice cube trays for later use in smoothies, or blend it with ice for a refreshing iced coffee treat. However, it's best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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