As the temperature rises, the thought of a steaming hot cup of coffee can lose its appeal. But that doesn’t mean you have to give up your daily caffeine ritual. The world of cold coffee offers a vibrant and delicious alternative, perfect for sipping on a sunny afternoon. Moving beyond the standard iced coffee opens up a universe of flavor and texture that can make your summer days even more enjoyable.
This guide is your ticket to a cooler, more caffeinated season. We’ve gathered a collection of simple yet impressive recipes that you can easily make at home. Whether you’re a fan of classic cold brew or looking for something a bit more adventurous, this list of Summer Coffee Drinks: 11 Refreshing Recipes To Keep You Caffeinated! has something for every palate. Let’s look at how you can prepare your coffee to be the perfect base for these cool creations.
Getting Your Coffee Ready for Summer
The foundation of any great cold coffee drink is, of course, the coffee itself. While you can simply pour hot coffee over ice, this often leads to a watered-down drink. For a smoother, stronger flavor that stands up to ice and mix-ins, consider these two methods:
Cold Brew: This method involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours. The result is a less acidic, incredibly smooth coffee concentrate that you can dilute with water or milk. It’s incredibly easy to make in a large jar or a dedicated cold brew pitcher.
Flash Chilled Coffee: Also known as “Japanese iced coffee,” this technique involves brewing hot coffee directly onto a full cup of ice. The coffee chills instantly, locking in the bright, aromatic flavors of a hot brew while avoiding dilution, as the melting ice is part of the intended recipe.
Summer Coffee Drinks: 11 Refreshing Recipes To Keep You Caffeinated!
Now for the main event. Here are eleven recipes to transform your coffee routine, from timeless classics to modern twists.
The Classic Iced Latte
Simple and always satisfying. Fill a glass with ice, pour in freshly brewed, chilled espresso or strong coffee, and top with cold milk. For a touch of sweetness, add a simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water, heated until dissolved, then cooled).
Vietnamese Iced Coffee
This drink is a beautiful balance of strong and sweet. Brew robust dark roast coffee, like Trung Nguyen, through a phin filter directly into a glass containing sweetened condensed milk. Stir and pour over a glass full of ice.
Salt Cream Cold Brew
Inspired by a popular coffee shop trend, this drink features a smooth cold brew base topped with a creamy, slightly savory foam. To make the foam, whip together heavy cream, a splash of milk, a pinch of salt, and a touch of sweetener until it’s thick but still pourable.
Iced Americano
For those who prefer their coffee strong and simple. Add ice to a glass, pour in fresh espresso shots, and top with cold water. It’s a crisp, clean way to enjoy your espresso on a warm day.
Iced Caramel Macchiato
Create this layered favorite at home. Start with a drizzle of caramel sauce in a glass, add ice and cold milk. Slowly pour freshly brewed espresso over the top, allowing it to “stain” the milk. Finish with another drizzle of caramel.
Iced Mocha
When you need a coffee and chocolate fix. In a glass, mix chocolate syrup or sauce with chilled espresso until combined. Add ice and cold milk, then stir well. It’s like a dessert in a glass.
Dalgona Whipped Coffee
This trend is still a fun and fluffy treat. Vigorously whisk together equal parts instant coffee, sugar, and hot water until it forms a thick, pale foam. Pour cold milk over ice in a glass and spoon the whipped coffee mixture on top.
Iced Coconut Milk Mocha
A dairy-free tropical treat. Follow the iced mocha recipe but swap the milk for creamy coconut milk. The combination of chocolate and coconut with coffee is wonderfully refreshing.
Espresso Tonic
A surprisingly crisp and bubbly option. Fill a glass with ice and tonic water, leaving room at the top. Slowly pour a shot or two of espresso over the top. The botanical notes of the tonic pair perfectly with the citrusy notes of the espresso.
Iced Vanilla Oat Milk Latte
A creamy, plant-based favorite. Combine chilled espresso with a splash of vanilla syrup in a glass. Add ice and fill the glass with your favorite barista-style oat milk for a smooth and satisfying drink.
Affogato
The simplest “recipe” on the list, but no less impressive. Place a scoop of high-quality vanilla ice cream or gelato in a cup. Pour a hot shot of espresso directly over the top. It’s a hot-and-cold coffee dessert drink that is pure bliss.
Tips for the Perfect Summer Sip
To make your homemade coffee drinks even better, keep a few things in mind. Using ice cubes made from coffee is a great trick to prevent your drink from getting watery as the ice melts. For sweeteners, simple syrup incorporates much more easily than granulated sugar in cold liquids. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your flavors—a dash of cinnamon, a drop of vanilla extract, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can add a special touch.
With these eleven recipes, you have a full arsenal of Summer Coffee Drinks to keep you cool and energized all season long. From the rich and creamy to the light and bubbly, there’s a perfect cold coffee waiting for you to try. So, grab your favorite glass, get some ice, and start mixing. Your new favorite summer ritual is just a recipe away.