As the weather heats up, nothing beats a refreshing iced coffee to cool you down. But why settle for store-bought when it’s so easy and rewarding to make your own? With my ultimate guide to iced coffee, I’ll show you how to make the best iced coffee at home in minutes! From creamy ice lattes and cold brews to classic coffees given a summer twist. I have rounded up all of your favorite recipes to satisfy your caffeine craving. Let’s get ready to chill out with the very best homemade iced coffees.
What is iced coffee
Iced coffee is simply brewed coffee that has been cooled and served over ice. You can make it with any brewing method or even instant coffee. So it’s incredibly versatile and easy to make. Plus, the possibilities for customizing your own iced coffee drink are endless!
From adding syrups to creating layered drinks, you can enjoy delicious iced coffees all summer long. And by making them yourself you get your coffee your way, without breaking the bank. So let’s get started and learn about all of the amazing iced coffees you deserve to enjoy.
Tips for making the perfect iced coffee
To get the most out of your iced coffee, follow my simple guidelines. I have tried out every single one, and they make a huge difference. You won’t regret it and your friends and family will be totally impressed with your barista skills!
- Use the freshest, best-quality coffee beans you can get and grind them just before brewing for the best flavor.
- If you are using pre-ground or instant coffee, you can still make an amazing iced coffee. But use the best ground or instant you can afford.
- As the ice melts it will weaken the brew. So brew your coffee or espresso stronger than usual to prevent dilution from the ice.
- To help your iced coffee last longer, without the ice melting, chill your coffee before mixing it with the other ingredients. It also cuts down on melting ice weakening your drink.
- Don’t be afraid to try different types of milk (such as almond, coconut, or soy). Each one gives you a unique flavor and texture. I have recently discovered just how good the different types of non-dairy milk can be.
Let’s dive into my full list of the very best iced coffees you can easily make at home:
Best iced and chilled coffees you can make and enjoy
Iced americano
A refreshing and bold coffee drink. An iced americano, like its hot relative, is enjoyable because it maintains the strong taste of espresso while being chilled for a refreshing experience. This is sure to give you an energy boost while helping you cool down. Get an easy win with my super simple iced americano recipe.
Taste & Texture: Strong and smooth with a clean finish.
Tips & Variations: For an even bolder flavor, use two shots of espresso. You can also add a splash of milk or a flavored syrup for a unique twist.
Cold brew
A smooth and low-acidic coffee made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for an extended period (several hours in the fridge). Why not try it yourself, with my simple cold brew recipe?
It has a rich flavor and smooth texture making it enjoyable, and its simplicity allows you to make a large batch to enjoy throughout the week.
Taste & Texture: Rich, full-bodied, and less acidic than regular iced coffee.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different steeping times to find your preferred strength.
- You can also add flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon before steeping for a unique taste.
Instant cold brew
Making great coffee is not only for when you have access to more expensive coffees. Instant coffee makes a great cold brew. Why is that, I hear you asking? The answer lies in the cold brewing process. Making a cold brew produces a less bitter and smoother coffee experience.
To make instant cold brew coffee, check out my super simple instant cold brew recipe.
Taste and texture: Smooth, well-balanced, and less acidic than traditional iced coffee. Its texture is silky and easy on the palate, making it an excellent choice when you want a milder coffee experience.
Tips and variations:
- Add a splash of milk, cream, or your favorite flavored syrup to customize your instant cold brew.
- Don’t be afraid to try a dairy-free alternative, almond, soy, or oat milk. They all work really well!
Instant iced coffee
Short on time? No worries! Instant iced coffee is a quick and easy way to get your caffeine fix without sacrificing flavor. It’s light, refreshing, and has a delightful frothy texture that will leave you wanting more. Check out my easy to follow instant iced coffee recipe, its so quick to make.
Taste and texture: a milder flavor profile and a lighter body. But it still gives you a satisfying, refreshing coffee drink that’s perfect for beating the heat.
Variation tip:
- For a fun and indulgent treat, blend your instant iced coffee with a scoop of ice cream to create an irresistible coffee milkshake.
Iced latte
A creamy and cool coffee drink made with a shot of espresso, milk, and ice. An iced latte is definitely in my top 10. Its perfect balance of strong coffee and smooth milk makes it both delicious and easy to make at home. Check out my super simple iced latte recipe.
Taste & Texture: Perfect balance of strong coffee and smooth milk.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different types of milk or flavored syrups to customize your Iced Latte.
- For a frothy texture, shake the espresso and milk together in a shaker before pouring over ice.
Vietnamese iced milk coffee
A sweet and strong coffee made with a strong blend of arabica and robusta coffees, sweetened condensed milk, and ice. This unique iced coffee is loved for its intense flavor and sweetness, providing a delightful pick-me-up any time of day. Why not try my easy-to-follow Vietnamese Iced Milk Coffee recipe.
Taste & Texture: Intense flavor and sweetness with a thick, creamy texture.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of sweetened condensed milk to your taste.
- You can also use dark roast coffee as a substitute for Vietnamese coffee beans.
Iced mocha
An iced mocha is a fabulous combination of espresso, chocolate, milk, and ice, creating a rich and satisfying coffee treat.
Could there be a better partnership than coffee and chocolate? Together they make this drink irresistible as well as easy to make at home. Check out my super simple iced mocha recipe.
Taste & Texture: Rich and satisfying with a perfect blend of coffee and chocolate.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different types of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder for a unique flavor.
- You can also add whipped cream on top for an indulgent treat.
Iced caramel macchiato
Iced caramel macchiato is an exciting layered coffee drink made with caramel syrup, milk, ice, and espresso. Its beautiful presentation and sweet caramel flavor make it a real crowd-pleaser! Check out my super simple iced caramel macchiato recipe.
Taste & Texture: Beautiful presentation with a sweet caramel flavor and smooth, creamy texture.
Tips & Variations:
- For a stronger coffee flavor, use two shots of espresso.
- You can also try different flavored syrups or sauces for a unique twist.
Nitro cold brew
Another unbelievably great coffee. Nitro cold brew has a velvety and creamy texture. It’s a cold brew infused with nitrogen gas, resulting in a smooth and frothy texture.
While the process of making nitro cold brew at home is more involved (it needs specialised equipment), the end result is a luxurious and satisfying coffee experience. But don’t be put off, once you try one you will be hooked, I know – because I am!
Check out my super simple nitro cold brew recipe.
Taste & Texture: Luxurious, smooth, and creamy with a frothy head.
Tips & Variations:
- For a creamier texture, you can add a small amount of milk or cream before charging the dispenser.
- Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for using the nitro dispenser safely.
Iced strawberry latte
An iced strawberry latte gives you one of your 5 a-day fruits, plus a refreshing coffee drink made with espresso, milk, ice, and strawberries. This delightful combination is perfect when entertaining, or just when you feel the need for something a little special. Do not miss out, check out my super easy-to-follow iced strawberry latte recipe!
Taste & Texture: Perfect for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their coffee.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of strawberry syrup to your taste.
- You can also try different fruit syrups for a unique flavor.
Iced cappuccino
One of the all-time classic coffee drinks consisting of espresso, cold frothed milk, and ice. These all combine to give you a light and airy cup of joe. The frothy milk adds a smooth creamy texture, making it an enjoyable and easy-to-make coffee. Why not try my simple iced cappuccino recipe?
Taste & Texture: Everything you love about a regular cappuccino, but because it’s iced you can enjoy it when it is too hot for regular coffee.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different types of milk or flavored syrups to customize your Iced Cappuccino.
- For an even frothier texture, try using a handheld electric milk frother.
Decaf iced coffee
A decaf Iced Coffee: A caffeine-free alternative to traditional iced coffee, made by simply pouring decaf coffee over ice.
Because there’s no caffeine there’s no not to enjoy this super tasty coffee any time – like late afternoons, evenings or even before bed. Try out my super easy decaf iced coffee recipe, you won’t regret it!
Taste & Texture: Allowing you to enjoy the taste of coffee without the caffeine.
Tips & Variations:
- Customize your Decaf Iced Coffee with milk, cream, or flavored syrups.
- For a stronger flavor, use darker roast decaf coffee.
Iced flat white
An iced Flat White is a velvety and smooth coffee drink made by pouring espresso over ice and adding chilled milk. Its silky texture and balanced flavor make it an enjoyable and delicious choice for all coffee enthusiasts. Check out my iced flat white recipe, it’s super simple to follow.
Taste & Texture: Silky texture and balanced flavor.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different types of milk to find your preferred taste and texture.
- You can also add flavored syrup for a unique twist.
Iced hazelnut latte
A nutty and sweet flavored coffee drink made with espresso, hazelnut syrup, chilled milk, and ice. The delicious combination of flavors will make this coffee a favorite when you want an easy-to-make flavored coffee. Check out my super simple iced hazelnut latte recipe.
Taste & Texture: Delicious combination of flavors with a sweet, creamy finish.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of hazelnut syrup to your taste.
- Try different nut-based syrups for a unique flavor experience.
Iced white mocha latte
Iced white mocha latte, could you imagine anything better? It’s a unique combination of espresso, white chocolate syrup, milk, and ice. This indulgent coffee is perfect when you just need a sweeter coffee experience.
Taste & Texture: Indulgent and sweet with a smooth, creamy texture.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different types of white chocolate syrup or cocoa powder for a unique flavor.
- You can also add whipped cream on top for an indulgent treat.
Iced coffee
A classic and straightforward coffee drink made by pouring brewed coffee over ice. Its simplicity allows you to customize it to your liking, making it enjoyable and easy to make at home. Why not try my super simple iced coffee recipe?
Taste & Texture: Simple and refreshing, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
Tips & Variations:
- Add milk, cream, or flavored syrups to personalize your Iced Coffee.
- For a stronger flavor, increase the amount of coffee or use a darker roast coffee.
Iced cortado
An iced cortado is a balanced and refreshing coffee drink made by pouring equal parts espresso and milk over ice. This small and potent coffee drink is perfect when you need a strong punch of coffee but with a little more creaminess than an espresso.
It’s sure to give you an energy boost while keeping your cool. Check out my super simple iced cortado recipe.
Taste & Texture: Small and potent with a touch of creaminess.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different types of milk to find your preferred taste and texture.
- You can also add a flavored syrup for a unique twist.
Iced espresso
It’is a bold and intense coffee drink made by simply pouring a shot of espresso over ice. It’s ideal when you need the quickest energy boost without losing your cool. Check out my iced espresso recipe, it will not disappoint!
Taste & Texture: Robust and strong with a clean finish.
Tips & Variations:
- Add a splash of milk or a flavored syrup for a unique twist on this classic beverage.
Iced caramel latte
An iced caramel latte is the ultimate indulgence coffee on a hot afternoon. It’s a sweet and creamy coffee drink made with espresso, caramel syrup, milk, and ice. The combination of flavors Just makes you want to find somewhere quiet to relax and enjoy it. Check out my iced caramel latte recipe, it’s so easy to make at home.
Taste & Texture: Delightful combination of flavors with a smooth, creamy finish.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of caramel syrup to your taste.
- You can also try different flavored syrups for a unique flavor experience.
Shaken espresso
If you’ve never tried a shaken espresso, you are in for a treat! It’s a frothy and refreshing coffee drink made by shaking espresso, ice, and sweetener (optional) together. The shaking creates a unique velvety texture, making this an enjoyable and easy-to-make coffee. Impress your friends and family with my super simple shaken espresso recipe.
Taste & Texture: Unique texture with a smooth, frothy finish.
Tips & Variations:
- Add milk for a creamier texture or experiment with different sweeteners and flavored syrups for a personalized taste.
Frozen coffee
Frozen coffee is a blended coffee drink made with ice, brewed coffee, milk, and sweetener (optional), then you simply put it in the freezer for a couple of hours.
The resulting slushy-like drink is perfect for hot summer days that you can easily customize to your taste.
To make a delicious frappe coffee, check out my super simple frozen coffee recipe.
Taste & Texture: Slushy-like and perfect for hot summer days.
Tips & Variations:
- Customize your Frozen Coffee with different types of milk, sweeteners, or flavored syrups.
- You can also add whipped cream on top for an indulgent treat.
Iced pumpkin spice latte
A pumpkin spice latte is about as famous a seasonal treat as you can get. But what if you want to drink it in hot weather?
Well, get ready for an iced pumpkin spice latte. With all the same ingredients, and all the same amazing flavors, but iced so it’s really cooling to drink. Magic! Check out my super simple iced pumpkin spice latte recipe.
Taste & Texture: Festive and perfect for those who love the flavors of fall.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of pumpkin spice syrup to your taste.
- You can also try different flavored syrups for a unique flavor experience.
Iced gingerbread latte
Iced gingerbread latte is another holiday-inspired coffee drink made with espresso, gingerbread syrup, milk, and ice. Its warm and comforting flavors make it a beloved choice during the holiday season. So imagine enjoying a cold one when it’s hot. Check out my super simple iced gingerbread latte recipe.
Taste & Texture: Warm and comforting with a smooth, creamy finish.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of gingerbread syrup to your taste.
- You can also try different flavored syrups for a unique flavor experience.
Iced macchiato
A layered coffee drink made by pouring milk over ice, followed by a shot of espresso. Iced macchiato is as visually appealing as it is delicious to drink. And it’s super easy to make at home.
To make a delicious iced macchiato, check out my super simple iced macchiato recipe.
Taste & Texture: Visually appealing with a strong coffee flavor and smooth, creamy texture.
Tips & Variations:
- Experiment with different types of milk or flavored syrups to customize your Iced Macchiato.
Iced brown sugar oat milk shaken espresso
Iced brown sugar oat milk shaken espresso is an exciting dairy-free coffee drink made with espresso, brown sugar syrup, oat milk, and ice. It has a taste that’s a perfect balance of sweetness and bold espresso flavor, while the texture is velvety smooth.
To make it, toy shake together ice, espresso, and brown sugar syrup, then pour into a glass and top with oat milk. For a twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of caramel syrup.
Taste & Texture: Where do I begin – there is so much going on that it shouldn’t work. But it does. It really does! Please just trust me and try one of these, you will be glad you did.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of brown sugar syrup to your taste.
- Why not also try different flavored syrups or plant-based milks for a unique flavor experience.
Iced toasted vanilla oat milk shaken espresso
It’s a tasty and dairy-free coffee drink made with espresso, toasted vanilla syrup, oat milk, and ice.
Iced toasted vanilla oat milk shaken espresso is an excellent choice with flavor you’ll never forget and nor will your friends and family.
Texture: Shaken espresso is so smooth you won’t believe its a shot of espresso. But with the addition of vanilla, oat milk and smoke flavoring, just takes the experience to a different level.
Tips & Variations:
- Adjust the amount of toasted vanilla syrup to your taste.
- You can also try different flavored syrups or
Iced vanilla latte
Another amazingly popular coffee drink based on its hot namesake. Iced vanilla latte is made with espresso, vanilla syrup, milk, and ice. It’s got a flavor you will instantly recognize and love.
Check out my super simple and really tasty iced vanilla latte recipe.
Texture: A sweet and creamy coffee that’s perfect any time of the day.
Tips & Variations:
- For a richer flavor, try using homemade vanilla syrup or adding a dollop of whipped cream on top.
Thai Iced Coffee
This exotic iced coffee recipe is inspired by traditional Thai coffee, known for its unique combination of strong coffee, sweetened condensed milk, and spices.
The taste is a fusion of bold coffee flavor, creamy sweetness, and a hint of spice, while the texture is silky and indulgent. To make it, brew strong coffee or espresso, mix with sweetened condensed milk and spices like cardamom and cinnamon, then pour over ice.
Texture: You’ll get the smoothness of the condensed milk, which mellows the strong coffee and then the spices will hit you. An unforgettable experience. You will wither love or hate.
Tips & Variations:
- For an extra kick, add a splash of your favorite coffee liqueur.
The bottom line
Write an engaging conclusion to a list post about different types of iced coffee
As you can see, there’s a wide variety of iced coffee drinks you can make to suit your tastes and every occasion. From iced twists on familiar favorites like iced americanos, through flavored lattes and even holiday favorites. But there are some real challenges out there. Why not try an iced macchiato or Vietnamese iced milk coffee. And if you’re feeling really adventurous, give a Thai iced coffee a go.
My final plug is to really hope you try a shaken espresso. Even if a reglar espresso is too strong for you, why not try a shaken espresso. You will be amazed at how smooth it tastes.
Now you’re all set to create delicious iced coffee drinks at home! Don’t be afraid to experiment and find your own favorite combinations. Enjoy!
Hi, I’m Eric Loftuss, co-founder of Bean Thirst with my wife Sophie.
My Coffee journey started young. I used to help my mom with the weekly shopping trip and we always called in to a coffee wholesaler and retail outlet in our town.
I really started to learn about coffee when, while in college, I worked in a local coffee shop and trained as a barista. Even though I went on to qualify and work as a lawyer, I still get a kick out of brewing a cup of Joe.
Sophie and I are so glad to be part of your coffee journey. Find out more about us