How to Make a Blended Iced Coffee Drink
An iced coffee drink can be a delightful way to help you beat the summer heat. Traditionally, iced coffee is brewed hot and served over ice. Blended iced coffee, on the other hand, is a cold-based drink made with ice, fruit and coffee-flavored powders. This type of iced coffee is as refreshing and as flavorful as its hot-brewed counterpart and ready in a matter of minutes.
A blended iced coffee drink consists of strong iced coffee, ice cream, cream and a variety of flavorings, such as nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and caramel. Coffee aficionados may use instant coffee or a freshly brewed, espresso-based or drip-brewed coffee for their drinks, depending on their preferred taste. Beginner baristas often find that using a good quality, instant coffee powder makes it easier to control their desired strength and sweetness.
In terms of serving size, iced coffee drinks are typically much larger than a traditional cup of coffee, often 8 ounces or larger. This is a great way to enjoy a caffeine boost without the added stress of overindulging. If a strong coffee isn’t your cup of tea, an iced coffee made with an extra serving of cream and a few drops of syrup or sugar can still provide the desired pick-me-up.
Ready to get started? Here are the steps you need to take to make your own delicious, blended iced coffee drink. First, combine the instant coffee powder and the liquid cream in a blender. Next, add the ice cream, ice cubes and your choice of flavorings. Once everything’s in the blender, mix at high speed for 20-25 seconds. Your drink should have a silky-smooth consistency and a light, frothy texture. Finally, pour into a tall glass, top with additional cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg or cinnamon.
What’s more, a great iced coffee drink can be even more delightful when topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could even add some fresh fruit pieces or crushed cookies on top. No matter how you top your iced coffee, the possibilities for experimentation are endless!
To help ensure you get the most flavor out of your coffee, take note of the ingredients you use. Make sure that ingredients such as flavored syrups and coffee powders are fresh and of good quality. You can also experiment with different coffee beans to find the flavor that works best for you. Don’t be afraid to try different combinations of ingredients and flavorings until you find the right mix.
Ready to give blended iced coffee a try? Your summer routine is sure to get a much-needed refreshment with this cool, caffeine-charged delight!
Lemon-Blueberry Iced Coffee
The tart, sweet and refreshing combination of lemon and blueberry is a great way to twist your traditional iced coffee. To make this blend, start with a base of cold-brewed espresso or an instant coffee powder mixed with cream. Add in crushed ice, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, a few drops of lemon extract and a few strands of blueberry for extra flavor. For a frothy topping, use a handheld blender to froth the mixture for 15-20 seconds before pouring it into a glass. Finish the look with a sprig of fresh blueberries and a spritz of lemon zest.
This blend is best enjoyed in summer when you’re looking for a smile of refreshment. The combination of its citrusy, sweet and tart notes is sure to bring the sunshine.
Cinnamon-Maple Iced Coffee
Nothing says cozy like the blend of cinnamon and maple. Start by preparing an 8-ounce glass with a teaspoon of ground or instant coffee powder. Then, fill your mug with ice cubes and add in a scoop of cinnamon or vanilla ice cream, 2 tablespoons of cream or milk, 2 teaspoons of maple syrup, a few drops of cinnamon extract and a pinch of ground cinnamon. Use a handheld mixer until the consistency is smooth. Once you’re satisfied with the texture, pour the mixture into a glass and add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
This drink offers a comforting flavor and a creamy texture that will make you feel as if you’re enjoying a hug in a cup.
Cherry-Chocolate Iced Coffee
For the sweet tooth that just can’t resist, try this iced coffee infusion with the flavors of cherries and chocolate. To make this blend, begin by filling a mug of cold-brewed espresso or an instant coffee powder topped with cream. Next, add crushed ice, a scoop of your favorite ice cream, and a few drops of chocolate extract or melted chocolate. For a sweet finish, top your drink with a handful of chopped, maraschino cherries, a dollop of whipped cream, some crushed chocolate cookies and a sprinkle of cocoa powder.
This indulgent interpretation of iced coffee will satisfy the most discerning sweet tooth and is perfect for any after-dinner treat.
Orange-Coconut Iced Coffee
This iced coffee blend is a tropical escape in a glass, perfect for a hot summer day. Start off with a base of cold-brewed espresso or an instant coffee powder mixed with cream. Scoop in a scoop of coconut ice cream and add in 1-2 tablespoons of cream or milk, some drops of orange extract and 3 tablespoons of shredded coconut. Blend until the mixture has a thick, smooth texture. Pour the contents into a glass, add a dollop of whipped cream and sprinkle with orange zest. To take your iced coffee explosion a step further, top it with orange slices for a citrusy finish.
This tropical-fruity blend is sure to transport you to the Caribbean with each sip.
Caramel-Banana Iced Coffee
Make this classic iced coffee a bit more romantic with the flavors of caramel and banana. Begin by preparing a cup of cold-brewed espresso or an instant coffee powder combined with cream. Then, put in a scoop of banana or vanilla ice cream, 3 tablespoons of cream or milk, 2 teaspoons of melted caramel and a few drops of banana extract. Blend the mixture until it’s smooth, pour it into a glass and add a scoop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg for the perfect caramel-banana iced coffee. For a bit of extra sweetness, top off your concoction with a few drops of caramel syrup.
This is your chance to indulge in a smooth and creamy concoction that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and make you yearn for more.
