Do you love the taste of a refreshing iced coffee but don’t feel like paying a hefty price for one from your local coffee shop? Making homemade iced coffee drinks is easier than you think, and you can customize the flavors to your tastes. Plus, you’ll save a bundle of money! All you need is some coffee and a few simple ingredients. Here’s how to make homemade iced coffee drinks in three easy steps.
Step 1: Brew The Coffee
Brew a cup of brewed coffee using either French press or filter drip. You can also use espresso, but be sure to dilute it a bit before using. To make iced coffee, use twice the amount of coffee grounds you’d normally use. Measure the amount of grounds you use, and then use the same amount of cold water. This may seem counterintuitive, but the smaller amount of water helps concentrate the flavor of the beans.
When the coffee is ready, immediately transfer it to a heatproof storage container and let it cool until refrigerator-cold. This step is very important, as if you add hot coffee to the ice it will eventually melt the ice and dilute your drink.
Step 2: Pick Your Creamer
If you’re looking for a creamy iced coffee, here’s how to make one. For the creamer, you can use homemade heavy cream, almond milk, milk, or any other nut milk of your choice. If you’re vegan, you can also use coconut milk or coconut cream. Once you’ve chosen your milk, add 3-4 tablespoons to the cooled coffee. For a lighter creamer, use only 2 tablespoons.
Step 3: Sweeten To Taste
Now that you have your creamer, it’s time to sweeten your coffee. You can use simple syrup or honey. You can also use Stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or a natural alternative like agave nectar. If you’d like a richer flavor, you can try adding a spoonful of brown sugar. Start with a small amount, and adjust to your tastes.
Step 4: Add The Ice
Now that you have your sweetened and creamed coffee, it’s time to add the ice. Use as much ice as you like, but make sure to use larger cubes if possible. This will help keep your iced coffee from melting too quickly. As an added bonus, the extra ice adds a nice refreshing chill to your beverage.
Mix-In The Extras
Want to take your iced coffee to the next level? You can add a few extra ingredients to give your beverage an extra kick. Try adding a spoonful of cocoa powder, or a tablespoon of instant coffee. You can also add spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. If you have a sweet tooth, try adding a splash of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream. For even more flavor, you can add orange zest or a couple drops of vanilla extract.
Put It All Together
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble your iced coffee. First, fill a glass with the ice. Add the coffee and the creamer, and stir to combine. Next, add the sweetener, and any other flavorings. Stir again to combine all the ingredients. Now your iced coffee is ready to drink!
Variations On The Recipe
If you want to add a little something extra to your iced coffee, there are endless ways to customize the recipe. You can try adding a splash of your favorite liqueur, such as Kahlua, Frangelico, or Amaretto. You can top your iced coffee with foam or dairy-free whipped cream. You can also add a splash of almond, oat, or coconut milk. For an extra fruity kick, add a slice of orange, lime, or grapefruit. The possibilities are endless!
Overnight Iced Coffee
If you don’t have time to make your iced coffee right away, there’s an easy solution: overnight iced coffee. Simply combine your coffee and creamer in a pitcher and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, add your sweetener and any other desired flavorings. The result is a smooth, cold, and delicious iced coffee treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.
Add A Smooth Finish
If you want an extra smooth finish to your iced coffee, there’s one last step you can take. Fill a blender with your pre-made iced coffee and blend until it’s frothy. The result is an ultra-smooth and creamy iced coffee that’s sure to delight. You can also add a scoop of ice cream for an extra special treat.
Making Affogato
For an even more indulgent iced coffee treat, try making an affogato. An affogato is a scoop of ice cream with a shot of espresso poured over the top. To make an affogato, simply scoop your desired ice cream into a cup or bowl, and pour a freshly-brewed shot of espresso over it. The espresso will melt the ice cream and create a deliciously creamy treat that’s perfect for a hot day.
Storing Iced Coffee
If you have any iced coffee leftover, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To keep it fresher for longer, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to six months. When you’re ready to enjoy your iced coffee, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy.
Conclusion
Making homemade iced coffee drinks is a great way to save money and enjoy a delicious treat. It’s easy to customize the recipe with your favorite flavors, so you can create a cool and refreshing beverage that’s perfect for any occasion. So the next time you’re craving an iced coffee, try making your own!
