When the heat of summer arrives, we all need a cool, refreshing drink to keep us going, and what better choice than a chilled, energizing iced coffee? While cold brew is a classic, it can start to feel a bit boring after a while. Luckily, there are so many exciting iced coffee recipes to elevate your iced coffee experience. From mixing in fruit juices to adding a splash of alcohol, the possibilities are endless. Let’s explore seven iced coffee recipes that will turn your summer refreshment into a true delight!
1. Vietnamese Iced Coffee
Inspired by the famous Vietnamese coffee, this drink pairs sweetened condensed milk with ice-cold coffee for a sweet and creamy treat.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp sweetened condensed milk
- 1/2 cup iced coffee
- Milk (to taste)
Method:
In a glass filled with ice, pour the sweetened condensed milk and iced coffee. Add your desired amount of milk, stir well, and enjoy! 
2. Avocado Iced Coffee
Yes, you read that right! Avocado and coffee make a delicious and nutritious combination that’s popular in many Southeast Asian countries.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 ripe avocado
- 1 cup double-strength coffee
- 125 ml sweetened condensed milk (or coconut milk/full-fat milk)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp honey or sugar (optional)
- Ice cubes (as desired)
- Cinnamon or brown sugar (optional)
Method:
- Wash and peel the avocado, then scoop the flesh into a glass.
- Add milk and sweetener to the glass.
- Pour in the strong coffee and mix everything together.
- Add ice cubes and top with cinnamon or brown sugar, if desired. Stir and serve!
3. Orange Juice and Espresso
This unique combo of espresso and orange juice is a hit in Phoenix, Arizona, where locals love to add a shot of espresso to fresh orange juice.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup iced orange juice
- 1 shot hot espresso
Method:
Pour the iced orange juice into a large glass, then gently pour the espresso shot on top. Enjoy the zesty and bold combination!
4. Long Island Iced Coffee
You’ve probably heard of Long Island Iced Tea, but have you ever tried its coffee counterpart? This boozy drink combines coffee with classic liquor for a grown-up twist.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp rum
- 1 tsp vodka
- 1 tsp gin
- 1 tsp coffee
- 1 tsp triple sec
- Sprite and lemon juice (to taste)
- Crushed ice
Method:
- In a glass, mix lemon juice and Sprite, then add ice.
- In a shaker, combine the remaining ingredients and shake well.
- Pour the mixture over the ice and stir.
5. Coffee Cocktail
A perfect choice for those who want a coffee cocktail that keeps them awake all day long, this drink mixes espresso with some classic cocktail ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 tsp gin
- 1 tsp sweet vermouth
- 1 tsp Campari
- 1/2 shot espresso
- Orange peel (for garnish)
Method:
- Fill two glasses with ice. In one glass, combine gin, vermouth, and Campari.
- In the second glass, add espresso and stir.
- Pour one-third of the gin mixture into the second glass, and garnish with orange peel. Stir and enjoy!
6. Coconut & Coffee
For a tropical twist on your iced coffee, why not serve it in a coconut shell? The delicate coconut flavor pairs wonderfully with the rich coffee.
Ingredients:
- 1 fresh coconut
- 1 cup coffee
Method:
Pour your brewed coffee into the coconut shell, add ice, and stir to combine. This refreshing drink gives you that perfect tropical vibe!
7. Milk/Coffee Ice Cubes
The perfect solution to watery iced coffee! Freeze milk or coffee into ice cubes, then add them to your drink for a creamy, refreshing twist without diluting the flavor.
Method:
Freeze milk or coffee in ice cube trays, and use these cubes in your iced coffee to keep it cold without sacrificing flavor.
