Iced coffee is a refreshing treat that you can easily make at home.
It’s become incredibly popular, and for good reason.
You don’t need fancy equipment or barista skills.
With just a few simple ingredients and tools, you can enjoy delicious iced coffee anytime.
This post covers a variety of iced coffee recipes.
From classic cold brews to creative, flavored drinks, there’s something for everyone.
Whether you prefer a simple iced coffee or a decadent caramel macchiato, you’ll find easy-to-follow recipes to suit your taste.
Get ready to cool down with these delightful iced coffee creations!
21 Best Iced Coffee Recipes: At A Glance
- Simple Iced Coffee
- Cold Brew Coffee
- Iced Americano
- Iced Caramel Macchiato
- Iced Mocha
- Vietnamese Iced Coffee
- Greek Frappe
- Thai Iced Coffee
- Iced Shaken Espresso
- Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew
- Caramel Frappuccino
- Brown Sugar Iced Coffee
- Vanilla Cinnamon Iced Coffee
- Hazelnut Iced Coffee
- Maple Syrup Iced Coffee
- Dairy-Free Iced Latte
- Vegan Mocha Frappe
- Protein Coffee Shake
- Iced Coffee Milkshake
- Cookies and Cream Mocha Milkshake
- Coffee Ice Cubes
Essential Ingredients and Tools
Common Ingredients for Iced Coffee
To make great iced coffee at home, you need the right ingredients.
Here are the basics:
- Coffee: You can use brewed coffee, cold brew, or instant coffee. Each type has its own flavor and strength, so choose what you like best.
- Sweeteners: Sugar, syrups, and other sweeteners can enhance the flavor of your iced coffee. Classic options include simple syrup, caramel syrup, and flavored syrups like vanilla or hazelnut.
- Milk and Milk Alternatives: Dairy milk, almond milk, soy milk, and oat milk are all popular choices. These can add creaminess and richness to your iced coffee.
- Flavorings: Vanilla, caramel, and other flavorings can take your iced coffee to the next level. You can use extracts, flavored syrups, or even spices like cinnamon.
Tools You’ll Need
Having the right tools can make preparing iced coffee at home easier and more enjoyable.
Here are the essentials:
- Coffee Maker or Cold Brew Pitcher: A coffee maker is perfect for brewing hot coffee, while a cold brew pitcher is designed for making cold brew coffee. Both are great options depending on your preference.
- Blender: A blender is useful for making frappes and other blended iced coffee drinks. It helps achieve a smooth, frothy texture.
- Frother: A frother can be used to create foamy milk or cream for your iced coffee. This adds a professional touch to your drinks.
- Mason Jars or Glasses: Mason jars or sturdy glasses are perfect for serving iced coffee. They are practical and have a nice aesthetic for enjoying your homemade drinks.
Basic Iced Coffee Recipes
1. Simple Iced Coffee
Making a simple iced coffee at home is quick and easy.
Here’s how you can do it:
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons warm water
- 2 teaspoons instant coffee granules
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 cup ice, or as needed
- 6 fluid ounces cold milk
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients.
- Combine warm water, instant coffee, and sugar in a sealable jar. Seal and shake until foamy.
- Pour the mixture into a glass full of ice.
- Add cold milk to the glass. Adjust to taste if necessary.
This simple iced coffee recipe is creamy, affordable, and doesn’t require a blender.
You can customize it with different types of milk and sweeteners.
For a stronger coffee, use more coffee granules.
It’s adaptable for various dietary needs, including vegan and keto-friendly options.
2. Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee is known for its smooth, less bitter flavor. Here’s an easy way to make it:
Ingredients
- 1 cup whole coffee beans
- 4 cups water
Special Equipment
- Coffee or spice grinder
- Cheesecloth or flour sack cloth
Instructions
Coarsely Grind the Coffee:
Grind the coffee beans on the coarsest setting on your grinder, or in short 1-second pulses in a spice grinder.
The grounds should look like coarse cornmeal.
Combine the Coffee and Water:
Transfer the coffee grounds to a container.
Pour the water over top.
Stir gently to ensure the grounds are saturated with water.
Steep Overnight:
Cover the jar and let the coffee steep for about 12 hours.
You can leave it on the counter or in the refrigerator.
Strain the Coffee:
Line a small strainer with cheesecloth and place it over a large measuring cup or bowl.
Pour the coffee through the strainer.
Store the Coffee:
Transfer the coffee to a bottle or jar and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
Serve the Coffee:
Dilute the coffee with water or milk to your preference.
Serve over ice.
Using filtered water can enhance the flavor, and you can adjust the coffee concentration by changing the ratio of coffee beans to water.
Cold brew coffee can also be customized with coffee ice cubes to avoid dilution.
Popular Iced Coffee Variations
3. Iced Americano
An Iced Americano is a bold and refreshing coffee drink.
It’s simple to make and perfect for those who enjoy the strong taste of espresso.
Ingredients
- ½ cup ice
- 2 ounces (1 double shot) espresso
- 2 tablespoons cold water (optional)
Instructions
- Make the espresso using an espresso machine, manual espresso maker, French press, or Moka pot.
- Add the ice to a glass.
- Pour the espresso over the ice.
- Taste and add cold water if desired. The ice will sufficiently dilute the espresso, so additional water is not required.
This drink is richer and bolder than the Starbucks version.
It’s great for a quick caffeine fix and can be customized with sweeteners or flavored syrups if you prefer.
4. Iced Caramel Macchiato
An Iced Caramel Macchiato is a delicious and sweet treat, perfect for caramel lovers.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ice
- 1 ounce (1 shot) espresso
- 1 cup milk (any type)
- 2 tablespoons vanilla syrup
- Caramel sauce for drizzling
Instructions
- Add ice to a glass.
- Pour in the vanilla syrup.
- Add the milk.
- Brew a shot of espresso and pour it over the milk and ice.
- Drizzle caramel sauce on top.
This layered drink looks beautiful and tastes amazing.
It combines the strong flavor of espresso with the sweetness of vanilla and caramel, making it a popular choice.
5. Iced Mocha
An Iced Mocha is perfect for those who love a blend of coffee and chocolate.
It’s rich, creamy, and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1 cup ice
- 1 ounce (1 shot) espresso
- 1 cup milk (any type)
- 2 tablespoons chocolate syrup
- Whipped cream for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Add ice to a glass.
- Pour in the chocolate syrup.
- Add the milk and stir to combine.
- Brew a shot of espresso and pour it over the milk and ice.
- Top with whipped cream if desired.
This drink is a chocolate lover’s dream.
The combination of espresso and chocolate syrup creates a rich and indulgent beverage that’s perfect for any time of day.
International Iced Coffee Recipes
6. Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Vietnamese iced coffee, known as Cà Phê Sữa Đá, is a strong, sweet, and creamy coffee drink from Vietnam.
It’s made with dark roast coffee and sweetened condensed milk, making it a rich and refreshing beverage.
Ingredients
- 4 cups water
- ½ cup dark roast ground coffee beans
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk, divided
- 16 ice cubes
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients.
- Brew the coffee using your preferred method. For authenticity, use a Vietnamese coffee filter (phin).
- Add 2 tablespoons of sweetened condensed milk into each of the four coffee cups.
- Pour 1 cup of freshly brewed hot coffee into each cup and stir until the condensed milk dissolves.
- Fill four tall glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the sweetened coffee over the ice and stir briskly to chill.
This recipe serves four and takes about 10 minutes to prepare.
You can adjust the sweetness and strength by varying the amount of condensed milk and ice cubes.
For a stronger flavor, use coffee ice cubes instead of regular ice.
7. Greek Frappe
Greek Frappe is a popular iced coffee drink in Greece, known for its foamy texture and strong flavor.
It was invented in 1957 by Dimitris Vakondios.
Ingredients
- 2-3 teaspoons instant coffee (Nescafe)
- Sugar to taste (optional)
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3 ice cubes
- 1 glass cold water (250 ml)
- 1 tablespoon evaporated milk (optional)
- Drinking straw
Instructions
- Add instant coffee, sugar (if using), and 1 tablespoon of water to a shaker or a jar with a tight lid.
- Shake vigorously until a thick foam forms.
- Pour the foam into a tall glass.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Fill the glass with cold water and add evaporated milk if desired.
- Serve with a straw.
This refreshing drink is quick to prepare and can be customized with varying amounts of coffee, sugar, and milk.
It’s a perfect pick-me-up for hot days.
8. Thai Iced Coffee
Thai iced coffee is a sweet, creamy, and strong drink often enjoyed on the streets and beaches of Thailand.
It’s typically made with strong coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and evaporated milk or cream.
Ingredients
- 2 cups (16 ounces) strong brewed hot coffee
- 4-6 tablespoons sweetened condensed milk
- ¼ cup evaporated milk (or fresh heavy cream)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Brew the coffee and pour it into a glass jug or container.
- Add the sweetened condensed milk to the hot coffee and stir until dissolved.
- Refrigerate the coffee for at least 1 hour.
- Fill glasses with ice cubes.
- Pour the chilled coffee over the ice.
- Top each glass with evaporated milk or heavy cream.
This recipe can be customized by adding ground cardamom, almond extract, or vanilla extract.
For an extra treat, try adding a splash of liqueur like Baileys or Kahlúa.
Adjust the sweetness to your preference by varying the amount of condensed milk.
Enjoy this exotic drink as a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up!
Starbucks and Other Copycat Recipes
9. Iced Shaken Espresso (Starbucks Copycat)
Making an Iced Shaken Espresso at home is simple and cost-effective.
This refreshing drink features espresso, brown sugar syrup, cinnamon, and milk, shaken together for a frothy, delicious treat.
Ingredients
- 3 shots espresso
- 2 tablespoons homemade brown sugar syrup
- ⅛ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅓ cup oat milk or your personal milk preference
- 1 ½ cups ice
Instructions
- Brew 3 shots of espresso.
- Combine the espresso, brown sugar syrup, and cinnamon in a 12-ounce mason jar or cocktail shaker. Stir to mix.
- Add 1 ½ cups of ice to the jar or shaker. Close the lid tightly and shake vigorously for about 30 seconds to cool and froth the espresso.
- Pour the shaken espresso into a tall glass.
- Top with ⅓ cup of oat milk or your preferred milk.
Optional
Add vanilla sweet cream cold foam on top for an extra fancy touch.
This homemade version is a great alternative to the Starbucks drink, with approximately 198 calories per serving.
10. Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew (Starbucks Copycat)
Pumpkin Cream Cold Brew is a fall favorite that combines cold brew coffee with a creamy pumpkin-flavored foam.
It’s easy to make at home with a few simple ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 cup half and half
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons pumpkin puree
- ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
- 4 cups cold brew coffee
- Ice
Instructions
- Make the pumpkin cream by combining the half and half, maple syrup, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin pie spice in a bowl. Use a frother or electric whisk to mix until thick and foamy.
- Fill a tall glass with ice cubes and pour in the cold brew coffee, leaving room for the pumpkin cream.
- Top with the pumpkin cream mixture and stir gently.
For a thicker consistency, use heavy cream instead of half and half.
This drink is perfect for fall gatherings and can be made in just five minutes.
11. Caramel Frappuccino
A Caramel Frappuccino is a delicious blended coffee drink that combines coffee, milk, caramel sauce, and ice.
It’s easy to make at home and tastes just like the one from Starbucks.
Ingredients
- 2 cups ice
- 1 cup strongly brewed black coffee, cooled
- 1 cup low-fat milk
- ⅓ cup caramel sauce
- 3 tablespoons white sugar
Instructions
- Blend the ice, coffee, milk, caramel sauce, and sugar together in a blender on high speed until smooth.
- Pour the mixture into two 16-ounce glasses.
- Optional: Drizzle caramel sauce on the inside of the glass before pouring the Frappuccino for an extra touch.
- Top with whipped cream and drizzle more caramel sauce on top if desired.
This homemade Caramel Frappuccino is a refreshing and cost-effective alternative to the Starbucks version.
It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth on a hot day.
Flavored and Creative Iced Coffee Recipes
12. Brown Sugar Iced Coffee
Brown sugar adds a rich caramel flavor to iced coffee, making it a delightful treat.
This recipe is simple and quick to prepare, perfect for a refreshing drink on a hot day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup brewed coffee
- 1-3 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 cup ice
- 1/3 cup milk or mylk (non-dairy milk)
Instructions
- Brew 1 cup of coffee.
- Add brown sugar to the hot coffee and stir until dissolved.
- Fill a tall glass with ice.
- Pour the sweetened coffee over the ice.
- Top with milk or mylk and stir well.
For an extra chilled experience, shake the coffee, ice, and sugar in a shaker cup before adding milk.
This easy-to-make drink offers a caramel flavor and can be customized with different types of milk and sweeteners.
13. Vanilla Cinnamon Iced Coffee
Vanilla and cinnamon give this iced coffee a warm, aromatic flavor.
It’s a comforting yet refreshing drink that’s easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup espresso or strong brewed coffee (hot)
- Coffee ice cubes
Instructions
- Prepare coffee ice cubes by brewing 3 cups of coffee, adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of sugar, then freezing in an ice cube tray overnight.
- Pour milk into a mug and add sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla. Stir well.
- Heat the milk mixture in the microwave for about 30 seconds.
- Pour hot espresso or coffee into a mug and mix with the warm milk mixture. Let it cool for about 5 minutes.
- Fill a tall glass with coffee ice cubes.
- Pour the coffee mixture over the ice cubes. Add more cold milk if desired.
For a frappe option, blend all ingredients.
Top with whipped cream, chocolate syrup, or chocolate shavings for extra flavor.
14. Hazelnut Iced Coffee
Hazelnut iced coffee is a quick and delicious drink, perfect for any coffee lover looking to add a nutty flavor to their iced coffee.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chilled coffee
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 tablespoon hazelnut syrup
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Pour 1 cup of chilled coffee into a tall glass.
- Add hazelnut syrup and sugar to the coffee. Stir well.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Pour 1/4 cup of milk over the mixture and stir again.
This recipe is versatile and can be customized with different flavors.
Freshly brewed coffee is recommended for the best taste.
15. Maple Syrup Iced Coffee
Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness to iced coffee, making it a perfect choice for a refreshing drink without refined sugar.
Ingredients
- 1-2 cups chilled coffee
- 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
- Creamer of choice (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Pour your chilled coffee into a tall glass or mason jar.
- Add 1-2 tablespoons of maple syrup and stir to combine.
- Add ice cubes to the glass.
- Add creamer if desired and stir well.
This simple recipe requires only a few ingredients and provides a naturally sweetened iced coffee that’s easy to make and enjoy.
Healthy and Vegan Iced Coffee Options
16. Dairy-Free Iced Latte
This keto iced latte is a simple, dairy-free option that’s perfect for those following a low-carb diet.
It’s creamy, frothy, and easy to make with just three ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp MCT oil
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk
- 2 shots fresh brewed espresso or ¼ cup strong brewed coffee
Instructions
- Brew the espresso or coffee and let it cool slightly.
- Add the espresso, almond milk, and MCT oil to a blender.
- Blend on medium for 5-10 seconds until the mixture is frothy.
- Pour the blended mixture over ice in a tall glass.
- Enjoy immediately for a refreshing, low-carb iced latte.
This latte is quick to prepare, taking only about 5 minutes.
If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, adjust the amount of almond milk to your taste.
You can also add sugar-free extracts or spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.
17. Vegan Mocha Frappe
This easy dairy-free iced mocha is a rich, chocolatey treat that’s perfect for hot summer days.
It’s made with simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- ½ cup non-dairy milk
- 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup (or to taste)
- Handful of ice
Instructions
- Combine the cold brew coffee, non-dairy milk, cocoa powder, and maple syrup in a blender.
- Blend until smooth and frothy.
- Pour the mixture over ice in a tall glass.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your rich, refreshing mocha frappe.
This recipe takes about 5 minutes to prepare and yields a delicious, low-calorie drink with only 98 calories per serving.
Enjoy it with biscotti or scones for a delightful breakfast treat.
18. Protein Coffee Shake
This protein coffee shake is a nutritious, all-in-one breakfast smoothie that’s perfect for summer.
It provides a good dose of protein and healthy fats, making it an ideal post-workout beverage.
Ingredients
- ½ cup ice cubes made from brewed coffee
- 2/3 cup whole milk (or almond milk for a plant-based option)
- ½ frozen banana
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (or chocolate protein powder)
- 1 tablespoon almond butter (or peanut butter)
- Handful of baby spinach
Instructions
- Prepare the coffee ice cubes by brewing a cup of strong coffee, letting it cool, and freezing it in an ice cube tray.
- Add the coffee ice cubes, milk, frozen banana, protein powder, almond butter, and spinach to a blender.
- Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Adjust the consistency by adding more milk if needed.
- Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
Optional
Top with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder for extra flavor.
This shake is quick to prepare, taking about 10 minutes, and is a healthy alternative to sugar-laden coffee drinks.
It can be made plant-based by using almond milk and provides a refreshing, chocolatey taste similar to a milkshake.
Dessert-Inspired Iced Coffee Recipes
19. Iced Coffee Milkshake
This rich and creamy iced coffee milkshake is a delightful treat with a hint of chocolate.
It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a refreshing indulgence.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon cocoa powder
- 1 to 2 tablespoons instant coffee or espresso powder (adjust based on desired coffee flavor intensity)
- 1 ½ cups vanilla ice cream (about 3 scoops, slightly softened)
- ½ to ¾ cup milk or cold coffee (adjust based on desired thickness)
- Optional toppings: whipped cream, fudge sauce, chocolate shavings
Instructions
- Add cocoa powder and instant coffee or espresso granules to your blender.
- Add ice cream and milk or cold coffee.
- Blend until smooth and well combined.
- Pour into a glass. Drizzle fudge sauce inside the glass if desired.
- Top with whipped cream and chocolate shavings if using.
- Enjoy immediately for the best texture.
This milkshake can be customized with different flavors such as caramel or even a splash of alcohol for an adult version.
It’s best enjoyed right after preparation to maintain its creamy and frothy texture.
20. Cookies and Cream Mocha Milkshake
Combining the classic flavors of cookies and cream with coffee and chocolate, this mocha milkshake is a decadent treat perfect for a hot day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold brewed coffee
- 1 cup milk
- 10 chocolate sandwich cookies (like Oreos)
- 2 cups chocolate ice cream
- 2 tablespoons whipped cream (optional for topping)
Instructions
- Brew and cool the coffee.
- Combine cold coffee, milk, chocolate sandwich cookies, and chocolate ice cream in a blender.
- Blend on high for 30-60 seconds until smooth.
- Pour into glasses and top with whipped cream if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your rich, flavorful milkshake.
This recipe yields about four servings, each packed with the delightful combination of cookies and mocha.
Perfect for a summer treat or a special dessert.
21. Coffee Ice Cubes
Coffee ice cubes are a fantastic way to keep your iced coffee strong and flavorful.
They prevent the drink from getting watered down as the ice melts.
Instructions on how to make and use
Make the coffee:
- Brew 2 cups of strong coffee.
- Add sweetener if desired and stir until dissolved.
- Let the coffee cool to room temperature.
Freeze the coffee:
- Pour the cooled coffee into ice cube trays.
- Place the trays in the freezer and freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Use the coffee cubes:
- Add coffee ice cubes to your iced coffee to keep it cold and strong.
- Top with milk or your favorite creamer for added flavor.
Variations
Mocha Coffee Ice Cubes:
Mix 1 cup of iced coffee, 1 cup of milk, and 6 tablespoons of chocolate milk mix. Freeze in ice cube trays.
Caramel Macchiato Coffee Ice Cubes:
Mix 1 cup of iced coffee, 1 cup of milk, and ¼ cup of caramel. Freeze in ice cube trays.
Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cubes:
Mix 1 ½ cups of iced coffee with ½ cup of sweetened condensed milk. Freeze in ice cube trays.
Storage Tips
- Store the frozen coffee cubes in a Ziploc bag in the freezer for up to 1 month.
- Do not refreeze thawed coffee cubes.
Using coffee ice cubes is a simple yet effective way to elevate your iced coffee experience.
These cubes can be used in various drinks and will keep your beverages flavorful and strong.
Tips for Perfect Iced Coffee
Creating the perfect iced coffee requires a few key steps.
Follow these tips to ensure your iced coffee is delicious and refreshing every time.
Choosing the Right Coffee Beans
Selecting the right coffee beans is crucial for a flavorful iced coffee.
- Opt for Medium to Dark Roast: Medium to dark roast beans provide a richer and more robust flavor, which holds up well when iced.
- Consider Single-Origin Beans: Single-origin beans often have distinct flavor profiles that can add complexity to your iced coffee.
- Freshness Matters: Always use freshly roasted beans for the best taste. Grind your beans just before brewing to retain their full flavor.
Brewing Methods
The brewing method you choose significantly impacts the taste of your iced coffee.
- Cold Brew: This method involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours. It produces a smooth, low-acid coffee that is perfect for iced coffee.
- Flash Brew: Brew hot coffee directly over ice to rapidly cool it. This method preserves the coffee’s aromatics and results in a bright, flavorful iced coffee.
- Aeropress or French Press: These methods are great for making a strong coffee concentrate that can be diluted with water or milk over ice.
Sweetening Your Coffee
How you sweeten your iced coffee can make a big difference in its overall taste.
- Simple Syrup: Dissolve equal parts sugar and water to create a simple syrup. It mixes easily with cold coffee without leaving undissolved granules.
- Flavored Syrups: Vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut syrups are popular choices that can add an extra layer of flavor.
- Natural Sweeteners: Honey, agave nectar, or maple syrup can provide a unique sweetness. They dissolve best when added to warm coffee before it is chilled.
Adding Cream and Flavors
Enhance your iced coffee with the right cream and flavorings.
- Milk and Milk Alternatives: Whole milk, almond milk, oat milk, and soy milk each add a different texture and flavor. Choose based on your dietary preferences and taste.
- Creams and Creamers: Half-and-half or heavy cream create a richer, creamier coffee. Non-dairy creamers are also available in various flavors.
- Flavor Additions: Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, extracts such as vanilla or almond, and even a splash of flavored liqueur can elevate your iced coffee to a gourmet level.
Conclusion
Making iced coffee at home is both versatile and easy. With various recipes and simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delicious iced coffee anytime.
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different flavors and methods to find what you love best.
Try adding unique twists to create your perfect drink.
We’d love to hear from you!
Share your favorite iced coffee recipes and variations in the comments.
Enjoy your homemade iced coffee adventures!