Homemade Amaretto Coffee Creamer: Bring Back Your Favorite Flavor!

Name: Homemade Amaretto Coffee Creamer: Bring Back Your Favorite Flavor!
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Ingredients: 1 can evaporated milk; 1 can sweetened condensed milk; 1/2 to 1 cup whole milk; 1 1/2 tsp pure almond extract; 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tbsp 1–2 amaretto liqueur

Debbie Hauck August 9, 2025

Total Time: 5 mins Difficulty: Beginner

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Make your own amaretto coffee creamer at home—creamy, nostalgic, and customizable. Perfect for hot or iced coffee, with dairy-free options!

Pouring coffee creamer in a glass cup full of good coffee

If you’re searching for an easy homemade amaretto coffee creamer that tastes just like International Delight Amaretto, you’re in the right place!

If you’re anything like me, your morning cup of coffee isn’t just about caffeine — it’s about comfort, routine, and a little indulgence to start the day. For years, my one non-negotiable was a splash of International Delight Amaretto Coffee Creamer. The almondy, sweet flavor made my coffee feel like a treat, every single time.

So when I found out this beloved creamer was discontinued, I was honestly in trouble. It was the only store-bought creamer I truly loved, and suddenly it was gone from shelves everywhere. I quickly discovered I wasn’t the only one searching for a homemade coffee creamer alternative or a copycat International Delight Amaretto recipe. Reddit and coffee forums were filled with people venting about the loss of this favorite flavor, swapping homemade hacks, and begging for a comeback. I knew I had to take matters into my own hands.

After lots of research, experimenting, and taste-testing, I finally landed on a recipe that’s nearly identical to the original. This homemade amaretto coffee creamer is creamy, full of that signature almond flavor, and easy to make at home. It’s creamy, dreamy, and full of that signature amaretto flavor. And the best part? You can make it in minutes with simple ingredients you probably already have. Whether you’re a fellow amaretto fan or just curious about making your own creamer, this recipe is for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Nostalgic Flavor: Captures the almond, vanilla, and subtle cinnamon notes of the classic Amaretto coffee creamer, just like International Delight Amaretto. Quick & Easy: Comes together in less than 10 minutes — no fancy equipment needed.
Customizable Sweetness: Adjust the sweetness or strength of the almond flavor to your liking.
Dairy-Free Options: This homemade coffee creamer can easily be made with oat milk or almond milk for a lactose-free or vegan version.
Cost-Effective: Homemade creamer costs a fraction of the store-bought kind.
No Weird Additives: Just simple, real ingredients — no gums, oils, or preservatives.
Versatile: Use it in hot or iced coffee, lattes, or even desserts!

History of Coffee Creamer

Coffee creamer as we know it has an interesting history. The first commercial non-dairy creamer was launched in the 1950s, offering a shelf-stable alternative to milk or cream for coffee drinkers. Over time, brands like International Delight and Coffee-mate began introducing a rainbow of flavors — french vanilla, hazelnut, caramel, and, yes, amaretto. Amaretto creamer became a cult favorite, especially for those who loved almond desserts or Italian-inspired flavors in their morning mug.

When International Delight discontinued their Amaretto flavor, it left a surprising void in the coffee world. Social media and forums quickly filled with passionate pleas for its return, but as of now, it’s still missing from shelves. Thankfully, this homemade amaretto coffee creamer recipe gives you an easy way to recreate your favorite coffee creamer at home and enjoy that nostalgic flavor again. Luckily, making your own is not only possible — it’s fun and delicious.

⚖️ Comparisons

How does homemade Amaretto creamer stack up against the original?

In my kitchen, the answer is: you might not even notice the difference!

The store-bought version is shelf-stable and includes stabilizers and artificial flavors, while this homemade version is dairy-based, ultra-creamy, and made with real almond extract and a touch of cinnamon. If you want that signature “boozy” amaretto coffee creamer flavor, you can even add a splash of real amaretto liqueur for a true International Delight Amaretto taste.

Compared to other homemade creamers, this recipe is richer and more nuanced, thanks to the combination of evaporated milk, sweetened condensed milk, and customizable flavorings. And unlike many store-bought creamers, you can easily adjust the sweetness and consistency to your liking.

Homemade vs. Storebought

Storebought creamers are convenient, but they often come with a long list of unpronounceable ingredients — oils, thickeners, stabilizers, and artificial flavors. They’re also usually ultra-sweet and sometimes leave a weird aftertaste. Homemade creamer, on the other hand, is all about control. You get to pick your ingredients, balance the flavors, and skip the preservatives. This homemade amaretto coffee creamer recipe lets you enjoy a cleaner, real-ingredient version of your favorite store-bought creamer. Plus, you can whip up a batch in less time than it takes to run to the store.

And let’s be honest, there’s something extra satisfying about pouring a homemade creamer into your coffee, knowing you recreated a discontinued favorite from scratch!

📢 Fun Facts about Amaretto Coffee Creamer

The word “amaretto” comes from the Italian “amaro,” meaning “bitter.”
Traditional amaretto liqueur is made from almonds or apricot pits and has a sweet, nutty flavor with a hint of bitterness.
Coffee creamers were first introduced in the 1950s as “non-dairy creamers.” They were designed to be shelf-stable and easy to use for busy households.
Sweetened condensed milk was invented in 1856 by Gail Borden. It quickly became a staple for desserts and, eventually, homemade creamers!
Amaretto creamer has a loyal fan base. When International Delight discontinued it, online petitions and Reddit threads popped up overnight.
You can make coffee creamer in endless flavors. From pumpkin spice to coconut mocha, the possibilities are almost limitless.
Homemade creamer can double as a dessert topping. Drizzle over pancakes, French toast, or even ice cream for an almond-cinnamon twist.
Most store-bought creamers are actually dairy-free, even if they taste creamy. They use oils and thickeners to mimic the texture of real cream.
The average American drinks over 3 cups of coffee a day. That’s a lot of opportunities to enjoy homemade creamer!

☕️ And now, with this homemade amaretto coffee creamer recipe, you can enjoy your favorite flavor any time — even if it’s disappeared from the grocery shelves!

💡Tips & Tricks and Variations

✅ Adjust Sweetness: If your creamer is too sweet, thin it with regular milk or unsweetened almond/oat milk.
✅ Dairy-Free Version: Substitute both evaporated and condensed milk with non-dairy versions, or use a mix of oat milk and sweetened condensed coconut milk.
✅ Amp Up the Almond: Add a touch more almond extract for a stronger flavor, but be careful—a little goes a long way!
✅ Make it Boozy: Stir in a tablespoon or two of amaretto liqueur for an authentic kick.
✅ Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for extra warmth.
✅ Try a Vanilla Twist: Swap almond extract for vanilla for a classic, crowd-pleasing creamer.
✅ Keep It Fresh: Store in a tightly sealed jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. Shake well before each use.

☕️ For a true copycat International Delight Amaretto creamer, use pure almond extract and a dash of cinnamon!

🥜 Substitutions & Allergy Info

Lactose-Free: Use lactose-free dairy milks or plant-based milks (oat, almond, coconut) and sweetened condensed coconut milk.
Nut-Free: Use only vanilla extract and skip the almond extract, or try sunflower seed milk as a base.
Sugar-Free: Use sugar-free sweetened condensed milk or make your own with a sugar substitute.
Vegan: Use plant-based milks (oat, almond, or soy) and sweetened condensed coconut milk.
Extra Creamy: Add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half.
No Cinnamon: Skip the cinnamon if you prefer a pure almond flavor.

☕️ This homemade coffee creamer recipe is easy to adapt for nearly any dietary need!

Ingredient Spotlight

Evaporated Milk: Adds rich, creamy body without being heavy.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: Provides sweetness and thickness — no extra sugar needed.
Almond Extract: The key to that signature amaretto flavor; use pure extract for best results.
Cinnamon: A subtle background note that warms up the whole blend.
Whole Milk: Thins the creamer to your preferred consistency.
Amaretto Liqueur (optional): For a true “amaretto” flavor and a grown-up twist.
☕️ These ingredients combine to make the best homemade amaretto coffee creamer — rich, creamy, and full of almond flavor.

Instructions:

Combine Ingredients: In a large jar or blender, pour in the evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk. Blend or shake well.
Add Flavorings: Stir in the almond extract and cinnamon. Add amaretto liqueur if using.
Adjust Consistency: Add whole milk, a little at a time, until the creamer is as thick or thin as you like. Taste and adjust almond or cinnamon if needed.
Store: Transfer to a clean, airtight bottle or jar. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. Shake before each use.
Enjoy your homemade amaretto coffee creamer in hot or iced coffee, lattes, or even as a dessert drizzle!

🫙Storage and Freezing

Refrigerate: Store homemade creamer in a sealed bottle or jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
Shake Well: Ingredients may settle or separate — just shake before using.
Freeze: You can freeze creamer in ice cube trays for up to 2 months. Thaw cubes in the fridge and stir before using.
Watch for Spoilage: If the creamer smells sour or curdles, it’s time to toss it and make a new batch. Homemade coffee creamer is best enjoyed fresh, but freezing in small portions is perfect for meal prepping your favorite flavors!

FAQ – about Coffee Creamer

Q: Can I make this creamer dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use oat milk or almond milk for the base, and swap in sweetened condensed coconut milk for the condensed milk.
Q: How long does homemade creamer last?
A: Up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, as long as it’s stored in a tightly sealed container.
Q: Is this creamer gluten-free?
A: Yes, all ingredients listed are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels for cross-contamination.
Q: Can I use non-fat milk?
A: You can, but the creamer will be less rich and creamy. Whole milk or 2% is best for flavor and texture.
Q: How do I make it less sweet?
A: Add extra regular milk to thin the sweetness, or use less sweetened condensed milk.
Q: Is it safe to add real amaretto liqueur?
A: Absolutely! Just add a tablespoon or two for flavor. The alcohol content is minimal per serving.
Q: Can I use this creamer in iced coffee?
A: Yes! It’s delicious in both hot and iced coffee — just give it a good shake before pouring.
Q: How do I avoid curdling in hot coffee?
A: Add the creamer to your cup first, then pour in the hot coffee slowly while stirring. This helps temper the creamer and prevents curdling.
Q: Can I add other flavors?
A: Definitely! Try a pinch of nutmeg, a splash of hazelnut extract, or even a little cocoa powder for a mocha twist.

☕️ If you have more questions about making homemade coffee creamer, drop them in the comments below!

Troubleshooting Tips

Creamer Too Thick or Sweet: Thin it out with extra milk (dairy or non-dairy) until you reach the perfect consistency and sweetness.
Creamer Separates in the Fridge: This is normal — just shake or stir well before each use.
Creamer Curdles in Coffee: If your coffee is super hot, try letting it cool for a minute before adding the creamer, or pour the creamer in first and then add coffee slowly.
Homemade coffee creamer is easy to adjust to your taste — don’t be afraid to experiment!

Easy Vanilla Coffee Creamer (Bonus Recipe!)

Ingredients:

1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk

1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk

2 tsp pure vanilla extract

1/2 to 1 cup whole milk (to taste, for thinning)

Instructions:

Mix all ingredients in a jar or bottle. Shake well, store in the fridge, and use within 2 weeks. That’s it!

Related Recipes

✅ Almond Cherry Cake

✅ Almond Bear Claws

✅ Apple Amaretto Cake

☕️ Looking for more homemade coffee bar recipes? Try my almond cherry cake or Apple Amaretto Cake for more delicious inspiration.

Wrapping Up

Losing a favorite store-bought product can be frustrating, but it’s also an opportunity to get creative in the kitchen. This homemade Amaretto Coffee Creamer is my answer to a discontinued classic, and I hope it brings as much joy to your mornings as it does to mine. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a creamer that’s creamy, customizable, and bursting with almond flavor — no artificial stuff required.

And if you ever crave something a little different, try the easy vanilla variation for a classic twist. Whether you’re a die-hard amaretto fan or just love the idea of homemade coffee treats, I hope this recipe helps you reclaim your perfect cup.

👉 Don’t forget to pin this homemade amaretto coffee creamer recipe and share with your fellow coffee lovers!

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