Easy Iced Coffee Recipe – Quick Summer Drink with Milk & Sugar

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Iced Coffee Recipe – Quick Summer Drink with Milk & Sugar

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, the moment the weather starts warming up, all you crave is something cool and refreshing. And honestly, nothing hits the spot quite like a good iced coffee. This recipe is so easy, it’s become my go-to on hot afternoons. I first made this when I was trying to recreate my favourite cafe drink at home, and I’ve been perfecting it ever since! It’s quick, customizable, and seriously delicious. Let’s get brewing (well, shaking!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This iced coffee isn’t just about beating the heat; it’s about convenience. Forget complicated cold brew processes! This recipe uses instant coffee, making it incredibly fast – ready in under 5 minutes. Plus, it’s totally adaptable to your taste. Want it sweeter? Go for it! Prefer almond milk? No problem! It’s the perfect pick-me-up when you need a little boost, and it’s so simple even a beginner can nail it.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this dreamy iced coffee:

• 2 teaspoons instant coffee (about 4 grams)
• 2-4 teaspoons sugar (or sweetener of your choice – about 8-16 grams)
• 2-3 teaspoons cold water (about 10-15 ml)
• To taste chilled milk (dairy or non-dairy – about 120-180 ml)
• As needed ice cubes

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference.

Instant Coffee Varieties

Don’t underestimate the power of a good instant coffee! There are tons of options out there. I usually use a classic instant coffee, but you can experiment with different brands and flavours. Some even have a richer, bolder taste.

Sugar Options – From Refined to Natural Sweeteners

I usually use regular granulated sugar, but feel free to get creative. Brown sugar adds a lovely caramel note. Or, if you’re watching your sugar intake, try stevia, honey, or maple syrup. Just adjust the amount to your liking!

Milk Choices – Dairy & Non-Dairy Options

This is where you can really personalize things. I love using full-fat milk for a creamy texture, but any milk works beautifully. Almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or even coconut milk are all fantastic choices. My friend swears by cashew milk – apparently, it makes the iced coffee extra luxurious!

The Importance of Ice

Good ice is key! Use freshly made ice cubes, as older ones can sometimes taste a little…off. And don’t skimp on the amount – it’s what keeps everything wonderfully chilled.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s make some iced coffee!

1. First, grab your shaker (or a jar with a tight-fitting lid). Add the instant coffee, sugar, and cold water.
2. Now, add a generous handful of ice cubes to the shaker.
3. Time to shake! Seal the shaker tightly and shake vigorously for 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the mixture is frothy and the ice has started to melt. This is the fun part!
4. Fill a tall glass halfway with ice cubes.
5. Pour the coffee mixture over the ice.
6. Top it off with chilled milk.
7. Give it a gentle stir with a straw, and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

Want to take your iced coffee game to the next level? Here are a few of my secrets:

Achieving the Perfect Froth

The shaking is crucial for that lovely frothy top. Don’t be shy – really give it a good shake! The ice helps create the froth, so make sure you have enough.

Adjusting Sweetness & Strength

This recipe is a great starting point, but feel free to adjust the sweetness and strength to your preference. Add more sugar if you like it sweeter, or more instant coffee if you want a stronger kick.

Preventing Watery Iced Coffee

The key to avoiding watery iced coffee is to use a concentrated coffee base. That’s why we shake it with ice – it melts just enough to create the perfect consistency. Also, don’t let it sit for too long before drinking!

Variations

Let’s get creative! Here are a few fun twists on this classic recipe:

Vegan Iced Coffee

Simply use your favourite plant-based milk! Oat milk and almond milk are particularly delicious.

Sugar-Free Iced Coffee

Use a sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol. You can also try a dash of vanilla extract for a little extra flavour.

Spiced Iced Coffee (Cardamom, Cinnamon)

My grandmother always added a pinch of cardamom to her coffee. It’s amazing! Add a ¼ teaspoon of ground cardamom or cinnamon to the shaker along with the coffee and sugar.

Iced Coffee with Flavored Syrups (Vanilla, Hazelnut)

A splash of vanilla or hazelnut syrup can transform your iced coffee into a decadent treat. My kids love this one!

Serving Suggestions

Iced coffee is perfect on its own, but it’s also great with a little something on the side. Try pairing it with a flaky pastry, a slice of cake, or a handful of cookies. It’s also lovely with a light breakfast or brunch.

Storage Instructions

This iced coffee is best enjoyed immediately. However, you can store the coffee concentrate (before adding milk) in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just give it a good stir before using.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

Can I use brewed coffee instead of instant coffee?

You can, but it’s a bit more work. You’ll need to brew a strong batch of coffee and let it cool completely before using it.

How can I make iced coffee less bitter?

Adding a pinch of salt to the shaker can help balance the bitterness. You can also try using a different type of instant coffee or adjusting the amount of sugar.

Can I prepare iced coffee in advance?

You can make coffee ice cubes to prevent watering down your drink! Freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays and use those instead of regular ice.

What’s the best way to sweeten iced coffee without sugar dissolving?

Use a liquid sweetener like simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved) or honey.

Can I add other flavors like chocolate or vanilla extract?

Absolutely! A dash of vanilla extract, chocolate syrup, or even a sprinkle of cocoa powder can add a delicious twist.

How do I adjust the recipe for a larger batch?

Simply multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you want to make. It’s easy to scale up or down!