Five Light and Frosty Coffee Drinks

When summer's wet, humid heat drags us down we all need a frosty pick-me-up. Yet so many ice-blended drinks are high in calories, sugar and fat. Here are some easy ideas you can make on your own with just a few, simple ingredients. You don't have to have an espresso maker, you can just use instant espresso powder or some strongly brewed coffee.

Make your own frappucino. Blend together equal parts cooled espresso, skim or soymilk, with Splenda to taste and lots of crushed ice. If you want to add more flavor spoon in a couple of tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa and a splash of vanilla or almond extract. You can also use flavored soymilk or milk, such as chocolate or vanilla. There are also fat free coffee creamers that add a lot of richness to these frozen drinks and they come in a variety of exotic flavors such as Irish Cream and Amaretto.

If you're craving something sweeter try blending cooled espresso with lowfat chocolate, mocha, or your personal favorite flavor of frozen yogurt along with a big scoop of frozen light whipped topping. Pour into tall glasses and add an extra dollop of whipped topping for garnish.

A crisp, cool drink perfect for either sipping on the patio or in front of your computer is to pour cooled espresso over ice and a sprig of mint, and sweeten with honey to taste. The ice, honey and mint will even out the bitterness of the espresso, but you can add skim or soymilk if you prefer.

For an Indonesian flair, pour a few tablespoons of fat free sweetened condensed milk into the bottom of a tall glass. Pour espresso over the thick milk and stir together until creamy and sweet. Add a few cubes of ice and enjoy. Fresh mint or basil leaves add a crisp and exotic twist to this sweetly tropical drink.

If you're craving a more adult style beverage on a hot summer evening, blend equal parts espresso, coffee liqueur, rum, light coconut milk, along with a tablespoon or two of unsweetened cocoa powder, and lots of crushed ice. For an extra sweet touch add a dollop of light whipped topping or frozen yogurt.

Try some of these refreshing coffee drinks this summer for the perfect way to keep crisp yet cool. They'll keep you going even on the hottest day and they won't weigh you down with too many calories. They're a guilt free way to indulge your sweet tooth while giving your brain and body a well-needed boost.