Iced Coffee

This iced coffee recipe is my go-to when I want a cool, refreshing caffeine fix without heading to the coffee shop. It’s simple to make at home with just a few ingredients, and there are tons of ways to customize it to match exactly what I’m craving. Whether I like it bold and black or creamy and sweet, this recipe has all the tips to make it perfect every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this iced coffee because it’s quick, affordable, and way better than paying coffee shop prices. It lets me control the strength, sweetness, and creaminess. Once I figured out how to avoid watered-down coffee, it completely changed the way I enjoy iced drinks. Plus, I can get creative—sometimes I go classic, and other times I make it fancy with flavored syrups or coffee ice cubes.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Brewed coffee, chilled or at room temperature
• Ice cubes (or coffee ice cubes for a stronger flavor)
• Milk, cream, or milk alternative (like almond, oat, or soy milk)
• Sugar or sweetener of choice (optional)
• Optional flavorings: vanilla syrup, hazelnut syrup, cinnamon

Directions

1. I start by filling a tall glass to the rim with ice. For extra flavor, I like using coffee ice cubes made from frozen brewed coffee.
2. I pour the chilled or room temperature coffee over the ice, leaving a little space at the top.
3. For creaminess, I add milk, half & half, or any milk substitute I’m in the mood for.
4. If I want it sweet, I stir in sugar, simple syrup, or my favorite flavored syrup.
5. I give it all a good stir, watch those pretty swirls, and it’s ready to enjoy.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 serving and takes just 5 minutes to prepare.

Variations

• Coffee Ice Cubes: I like freezing leftover coffee in ice cube trays to use in place of regular ice, so the coffee never waters down.
• Vietnamese Style: For something richer and sweeter, I make Vietnamese iced coffee using sweetened condensed milk.
• Flavored Iced Coffee: A splash of vanilla or hazelnut syrup transforms this into a café-style drink.
• Espresso-Based: I use chilled espresso shots for a bolder, more intense coffee flavor.
• Cinnamon Spice: A little ground cinnamon stirred in gives it a cozy twist.

Storage/Reheating

Since this is an iced drink, I don’t usually store it long. But if I want to prep ahead, I brew a batch of strong coffee and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Then I just assemble each glass when I’m ready to drink. I never reheat this—it’s meant to be cold!

FAQs

Can I make iced coffee without it tasting watered down?

Yes, I use coffee ice cubes or brew stronger coffee to balance the dilution from melting ice.

What kind of coffee works best?

I use any kind I have—drip, espresso, or instant—but freshly ground beans give the best flavor.

How can I sweeten iced coffee?

I usually use simple syrup because it mixes easily in cold drinks, but sugar or flavored syrups work too.

Is there a dairy-free option?

Absolutely. I like almond, oat, or soy milk depending on what I’m in the mood for.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, I brew a pot of coffee in advance and chill it in the fridge, then assemble the iced coffee when I’m ready.

Conclusion

Making iced coffee at home is easy, delicious, and totally customizable. I’ve saved so much time and money since I started doing it myself. Once I figured out the best tricks—like using coffee ice cubes and adding just the right touch of cream—I never looked back. Whether I want it bold or sweet, this recipe always hits the spot.

Iced Coffee

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Learn how to make iced coffee at home with this easy, refreshing recipe! Customize it to your taste with your favorite milk, sweeteners, or flavored syrups. Say goodbye to watered-down coffee—this foolproof method uses chilled brew and optional coffee ice cubes for maximum flavor.

• Author: Mayaa
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Yield: 1 serving
• Category: Drinks
• Method: No-cook
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

• 1 cup brewed coffee, chilled or at room temperature
• Ice cubes or coffee ice cubes
• 1/4 cup milk, cream, or non-dairy alternative (almond, oat, soy, etc.)
• Sugar or sweetener of choice, to taste (optional)
• Optional flavorings: vanilla syrup, hazelnut syrup, ground cinnamon

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Fill a tall glass with ice cubes or coffee ice cubes for stronger flavor.
2. Pour the chilled or room temperature coffee over the ice, leaving room at the top.
3. Add your choice of milk or milk substitute for added creaminess.
4. Stir in sugar, simple syrup, or flavored syrup if desired.
5. Mix well, enjoy the swirls, and serve immediately.

Notes

• Brew strong coffee or use coffee ice cubes to avoid a watered-down taste.
• Sweetened condensed milk gives a rich, Vietnamese-style twist.
• Flavored syrups can be used to recreate coffeehouse favorites.
• Can use espresso for a bolder version.
• Ground cinnamon adds a cozy flavor boost.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 glass
• Calories: 45
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 20mg
• Fat: 2g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 1g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 4g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg