by Lisa Oates

Created on: July 18, 2009

Most people either love coffee or hate coffee. A few folks can be found somewhere between the two extremes, drinking coffee for the caffeine and not the taste, or having a cup every once in a while for social purposes. Those who love coffee often drink it black, and are very particular about how they like it, but the majority of coffee drinkers will drop some love into each cup. This love has a name: coffee creamer.

For coffee drinkers that are not die-hard, coffee creamer is a real gem. It takes away the bitterness and adds a sweet taste. Some like a little creamer with their coffee, and others like a little coffee with their creamer. Whichever category you fall into, there are some fabulous and delicious creamers on market shelves everywhere, and it is recommended that you try many kinds to find your favorite.

There are the traditional flavors, like vanilla, hazelnut, and Irish cream that are classic choices to fall back on when you've driven yourself mad by trying out some more extreme flavors. Vanilla is sweet and decadent, but not too overpowering. Hazelnut has a delicate natural flavor. Irish cream boasts a rich and provocative flavor that no other creamer can match.

If you are more contemporary, spontaneous, and like to take risks, perhaps the traditional flavors aren't for you. Try chocolate clair, cinnamon vanilla, tiramisu, amaretto, kahlua, or B-52! Yes, some of these might also be liqueurs, but as creamers, they are equally divine. Chocolate clair and tiramisu, when added to that perfect hot cup of java are equivalent to drinking dessert. Cinnamon vanilla combines the classic vanilla flavor and the spicy zing of cinnamon, and it is simply wonderful. Amaretto and kahlua are quite sweet and add a smooth creaminess to your coffee and makes it glide down so nicely.

B-52? My personal favorite! It is rare and robust and combines the flavors of Irish cream, amaretto, and kahlua. Magnificent! (For those who also like their alcohol, this creates a nice adult beverage as well.) If ever you walk into a coffee shop or are perusing the grocery aisles and come across this fantastic flavor, waste no time in trying it out! You will be won over, converted, and your love of coffee creamer will transform to a new level one you never even knew existed.

Try them one, try them all! Each flavor of coffee creamer possesses unique qualities, whether it is a nutty essence, a sweet taste, or a bold flavor. After you've sampled as many as possible, make your decision. Which is your favorite?

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