Iced coffee is easy to make with coffee you have already brewed. Let it cool, pour it over ice and add milk or cold water if you like. This guide covers hot-brewed coffee served cold; if you want to use instant coffee, follow our iced coffee with instant coffee recipe.
What you need
- Freshly brewed coffee, made using your usual method
- Ice
- Cold milk or water, optional
- Sugar or syrup, optional
How to make iced coffee
- Brew the coffee. Make coffee using your normal brewer and the directions for your coffee. If you prefer a stronger drink, brew it to your taste before chilling.
- Let it cool. Pour the coffee into a heatproof jug and leave it until it reaches room temperature. For a colder drink, chill it in the fridge.
- Fill a glass with ice. Use enough ice to chill the coffee. Pour the cooled coffee over it.
- Finish your drink. Add cold milk or water if you like, then sweeten to taste. Stir and serve.
Can I pour hot coffee over ice?
You can, but the melting ice will dilute the drink. Cooling the coffee first helps you keep more of its original strength. Make it ahead and chill it if you want a colder cup without waiting.
Is this the same as instant iced coffee?
No. This method starts with hot-brewed coffee that is cooled before serving. For a method that dissolves instant coffee in hot water, see our instant iced coffee recipe.
