Vanilla Ice Cubes

Ingredients:

• 2 c. almond or refrigerated coconut milk

• 1/3 c. granulated sugar

• 1 vanilla bean

• 1 tsp. vanilla (optional--add for more intense vanilla flavor)

Directions:

Combine almond milk and sugar in a large saucepan. Slice open vanilla bean lengthwise and scrape insides into saucepan, then place empty vanilla bean into mixture. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, whisking to break up clumps of vanilla. Once mixture has come to a simmer, reduce heat to low and cook 10 minutes more, whisking occasionally.

Allow vanilla mixture to come to room temperature. Pour through a fine mesh strainer into a bowl with a spout, then pour mixture into ice cube trays. Freeze until completely solid, 3-4 hours (depending on the temperature of your freezer and size of the cubes). Serve with iced coffee, tea, or other beverages.

Notes

• Be aware that if you use soy milk, it's more likely to curdle when added to tea or coffee.