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Iced-Coffee-Recipe

Homemade Iced Coffee

Learn how to make the perfect iced coffee at home with this simple recipe. Refreshing, customizable, and much more affordable than coffee shop versions. Works with cold brew or cooled hot coffee for a rich, smooth flavor that won't get watery.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 0 minutes
0 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 glass
Course: Beverage
Cuisine: American
Calories: 25
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Base Coffee
  • 1 cup brewed coffee chilled or at room temperature (cold brew or cooled hot coffee)
  • 1 cup ice cubes or coffee ice cubes for stronger flavor
Add-ins
  • 2-4 tablespoons milk of choice whole milk, almond milk, oat milk, or cream
  • 1-2 teaspoons sweetener simple syrup, sugar, maple syrup, or agave nectar (optional)

Equipment

  • Glass or tumbler
  • Spoon for stirring
  • Ice cube trays (optional)

Method
 

  1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes, leaving about 1 inch from the top. For extra coffee flavor, use frozen coffee ice cubes instead of regular ice.
  2. Slowly pour the chilled coffee over the ice, filling the glass about 3/4 full. The coffee should be at room temperature or cold to prevent rapid ice melting.
  3. Add 2-4 tablespoons of your preferred milk, starting with less and adjusting to taste. Stir gently to combine.
  4. If desired, add sweetener to taste. Simple syrup works best as it dissolves easily in cold coffee. Stir well to incorporate.
  5. Taste and adjust milk and sweetener as needed. Serve immediately with a straw or long spoon for stirring.

Notes

Coffee Preparation Tips:
  • Cold Brew: Steep coffee grounds in cold water for 12-24 hours for the smoothest flavor
  • Hot Coffee: Brew stronger than usual, then cool completely before using
  • Make Ahead: Brewed coffee keeps in the fridge for up to 4 days
Flavor Variations:
  • Add vanilla extract for vanilla iced coffee
  • Mix in chocolate syrup for a mocha version
  • Try flavored syrups like caramel or hazelnut
  • Use coconut milk for tropical flavor
Pro Tip: Make coffee ice cubes by freezing leftover coffee in ice cube trays. This prevents dilution and actually strengthens the coffee flavor as they melt!