Iced coffee is a perfectly refreshing drink, ideal for hot days or for those who prefer a smooth, chilled coffee experience. Unlike cold brew, which takes hours to steep, this classic iced coffee is made quickly using freshly brewed coffee, ice, and a touch of sweetness if desired. The result? A bold, crisp, and cooling coffee that’s easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup (240ml) of freshly brewed coffee (hot)
- ½ cup of ice cubes
- 2 teaspoons of sugar or sweetener (optional)
- ¼ cup of milk or cream (optional)
- Vanilla extract or flavored syrup (optional)
How to Make Iced Coffee
- Brew the Coffee – Start by making a fresh cup of strong coffee. If using a drip coffee maker or French press, brew your coffee slightly stronger than usual, as the ice will dilute it.
- Let it Cool Slightly – Allow the coffee to cool at room temperature for 5–10 minutes to prevent excessive melting of the ice.
- Prepare the Glass – Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, ensuring it’s at least half full.
- Pour Over Ice – Slowly pour the cooled coffee over the ice. The ice will begin to chill the coffee instantly.
- Sweeten to Taste – If you like your iced coffee sweet, stir in sugar or flavored syrup while the coffee is still warm so it dissolves easily.
- Add Milk or Cream (Optional) – For a creamy version, pour in cold milk, cream, or a dairy-free alternative and stir well.
- Serve and Enjoy – Add a straw, give it a final stir, and enjoy your homemade iced coffee!
Preparation Time
- Total time: 10 minutes
- Active preparation time: 5 minutes
- Cooling time: 5 minutes
Tips for the Best Iced Coffee
- Use Strong Coffee: Since the ice will dilute the coffee, make it slightly stronger than usual. A dark roast or espresso works great.
- Chill Faster: If you’re in a hurry, place the freshly brewed coffee in the fridge for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process.
- Sweeten the Right Way: Dissolve sugar or syrup while the coffee is hot, or use simple syrup to ensure smooth sweetness.
- Make It Creamier: Add condensed milk for a Vietnamese-style iced coffee or use oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Customize It: Try adding a splash of vanilla extract, caramel syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
More About Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is one of the easiest coffee drinks to make at home, offering a refreshing way to enjoy coffee year-round. Unlike cold brew, which takes 12–24 hours to steep, this method is quick and convenient, making it a great option for busy mornings or an afternoon pick-me-up.
You can experiment with different brewing methods, like using espresso shots for a bold, Italian-style iced coffee, or blending it with ice for a frappé-style drink.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic iced coffee, why not try adding whipped cream, flavored syrups, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat?