Tired of Paying for Starbucks? Making Iced Coffee at Home Is Easier Than You Think
On a hot summer day, nothing beats a refreshing iced coffee. But if you’re looking to save money and ditch your Dunkin’ Donuts or Starbucks habit, making iced coffee at home is relatively easy and uses the same basic ingredients as hot coffee.
Iced coffee differs from cold brew coffee in that it is less concentrated and contains less caffeine. But while cold brew can take an entire day to brew and requires a special cold brew maker, iced coffee is far more convenient and retains more of the coffee’s subtle flavor notes than cold brew.
Here is how to make homemade iced coffee. We also provide instructions on how to make ice cream in a food processor and a viral cocktail called the Dirty Shirley. You can also view our recommendations for the top coffee maker and coffee grinder.
What is required to prepare iced coffee
It may seem obvious, but the following items are required to make iced coffee at home:
Brewed coffee (this can be from your Keurig, an automatic coffee pot, a pour-over or any other method you prefer)
Ice Extras (sugar, simple syrup, flavored syrups, cream, milk, etc.)
How to prepare coffee iced
Here is the easiest method for preparing iced coffee.
Cool your freshly brewed coffee. You can leave it out until it reaches room temperature, place it in the freezer for a few minutes, or, if you’re planning ahead, refrigerate it overnight so it’s ready to pour in the morning.
Fill a glass with ice, then pour the coffee over the ice. (If you pour hot coffee over ice in a hurry, you get weak, lukewarm coffee.)
Add any desired condiments, such as cream and sugar.
Freeze a portion of your brewed coffee in ice cube trays. The next time you make iced coffee and want to keep it cold without watering it down, add some ice.
