Homemade Iced Coffee – Refreshing & Easy

This Homemade Iced Coffee is refreshing, smooth, and easy to make at home. Perfect for warm mornings, afternoon pick-me-ups, or anytime you crave a chilled coffee treat. With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can enjoy café-style iced coffee without leaving your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Smooth, refreshing, and energizing
  • Quick and easy to prepare
  • Fully customizable with milk or sweeteners
  • Perfect for summer or anytime iced coffee craving
  • Can be made ahead and stored
  • Budget-friendly alternative to café drinks

Ingredients

Flat lay of ingredients for homemade iced coffee

  • 1 cup brewed coffee, cooled
  • 1/2 cup milk or cream (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1–2 teaspoons sugar or sweetener (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
  • Ice cubes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step-by-step collage of making homemade iced coffee

  1. Brew 1 cup of your favorite coffee and allow it to cool.
  2. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  3. Pour cooled coffee over the ice.
  4. Add milk or cream and sweetener.
  5. Stir gently to combine.
  6. Add vanilla extract if desired for extra flavor.
  7. Serve immediately with a straw or enjoy as is.

Tips & Variations

  • Use cold brew coffee for a smoother, less acidic flavor.
  • Adjust sweetness and milk according to taste preferences.
  • Top with whipped cream for a dessert-like treat.
  • Add flavored syrups such as caramel, hazelnut, or chocolate.
  • Freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays to prevent dilution.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

  • Store brewed coffee in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Mix with milk and sweetener just before serving for best flavor.
  • Iced coffee is best enjoyed fresh; pre-mixed versions may separate.
  • Freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays for iced drinks later.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

Homemade iced coffee served in a glass with straw

  • Serve with a splash of chocolate or caramel syrup.
  • Pair with pastries, muffins, or cookies.
  • Enjoy alongside breakfast or brunch for a refreshing beverage.
  • Use as a base for iced lattes, frappes, or coffee smoothies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use instant coffee for iced coffee?

Yes, dissolve instant coffee in hot water, allow to cool, and prepare as usual.

How do I make it less bitter?

Use cold brew, add milk or cream, or sweeten to balance bitterness.

Can I make it vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy milk.

How can I make it stronger?

Brew a stronger coffee or reduce the milk ratio for a bolder flavor.

Ready to Make It?

This Homemade Iced Coffee is simple, refreshing, and fully customizable. Enjoy a café-style iced coffee at home anytime, tailored to your taste. Save it for quick morning refreshment or an afternoon pick-me-up.

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Glass of homemade iced coffee with ice and cream

Homemade Iced Coffee


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  • Author: Myla
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving 1x

Description

Refreshing homemade iced coffee that is easy to prepare and fully customizable with milk, sweeteners, and ice.


Ingredients

Scale

1 cup brewed coffee, cooled

1/2 cup milk or cream

12 teaspoons sugar or sweetener

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Ice cubes


Instructions

1. Brew coffee and let it cool.

2. Fill a glass with ice cubes.

3. Pour cooled coffee over ice.

4. Add milk or cream and sweetener.

5. Stir gently to combine.

6. Add vanilla extract if desired.

7. Serve immediately.

Notes

Adjust sweetness and milk to taste.

Use cold brew for smoother flavor.

Freeze coffee cubes for iced drinks.

Best served fresh.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Beverage
  • Method: No-Brew
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 glass
  • Calories: 90
  • Sugar: 2
  • Sodium: 5
  • Fat: 2
  • Saturated Fat: 1
  • Unsaturated Fat: 1
  • Trans Fat: 0
  • Carbohydrates: 15
  • Fiber: 0
  • Protein: 1
  • Cholesterol: 5

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