Iced coffees are just soooo good! But if you get your drink on the go, you are paying quite a bit for a lot of calories & sometimes more ice cubes than actual coffee … So that you can enjoy the perfect iced coffee, let’s dive into different ingredients & the ultimate way to make your perfect drink!
Why We Love Iced Coffee
Iced coffee is not only a refreshing beverage but also a delightful treat that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether you’re looking to cool down on a hot day or need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, this vegan version offers a guilt-free indulgence for coffee lovers who adhere to a plant-based diet. This recipe provides a comprehensive guide to creating a delicious vegan iced coffee with options to tailor it to your taste.
Choosing The Right Coffee
Which Coffee Type is best for Iced Coffee?
Cold Brew
Cold brew is the best choice for a smoother, less acidic drink. It’s made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours, which reduces the bitterness and acidity often found in traditionally brewed coffee.
Espresso
If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, opt for espresso. You can either use an espresso machine or a stovetop moka pot to prepare it.
Regular Brew
A regular drip coffee or any method you have at home works just as well. Make sure it’s strong since the ice and milk will dilute it.
Brewing Tips
- Always use filtered water for the cleanest taste.
- If brewing hot coffee to chill, brew it at double strength to compensate for dilution with ice and milk.
Selecting the Best Milk Alternative for Your Iced Coffee
Well, since we are now educated enough to know that we skip dairy/cow milk (we don´t want blood or pus of a poor animal in our drinks) in our diets, let´s see which plant-based milk alternative is the right choice for you. The choice of the plant-based milk can significantly affect the taste & texture of your iced coffee:
Almond Milk
Offers a light and slightly nutty flavor.
Coconut Milk
Adds a tropical, creamy texture with a subtle coconut flavor that pairs beautifully with coffee.
Oat Milk
Known for its smooth texture and slightly sweet flavor, enhancing the body of your coffee.
Soy Milk
A good source of protein and has a mild flavor that doesn’t overpower the coffee.
Experiment with different milks to find your favorite, or blend them for a unique taste.
It´s important to choose the barista version of the vegan milk.
Find here a huge array of vegan baristas!
Sweetening Your Iced Coffee
Choosing the right sweetener is crucial for adding just the right touch of sweetness without stacking up the calorie count.
Stevia
Stevia is the best sweetener choice if you want your iced coffee to be sweet without calories.
Maple Syrup
Provides a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the robust coffee flavors.
Agave Syrup
A fructose-based sweetener is sweeter than sugar, so you might need less.
Dates
Blend some dates with water to make a date paste for a natural, fiber-rich sweetener.
Optional Additions
To elevate your iced coffee, consider adding some flavors:
Vanilla Extract
A few drops can add a comforting, warm flavor.
Cinnamon
Offers a spicy note that can transform the flavor profile of your coffee.
Cocoa Powder
For chocolate lovers, a sprinkle of cocoa can turn your coffee into a mocha delight.
Vegan Whipped Cream
For a luxurious finish, top your coffee with coconut or soy-based whipped cream.
How to make Iced Coffee
Now that we clarified what we need for THE perfect Iced Coffee, let´s see how to prepare it:
Prepare the Coffee
Brew your chosen coffee and let it cool.
Sweeten
Mix in your chosen sweetener while the coffee is warm to ensure it fully dissolves.
Ice
Fill the glass to the brim with ice cubes. If you wanna avoid the melting ice cubes to dilute your iced coffee, you can use those steel ice cubes. They are reusable & and won´t interfere with the taste.
Pour in Milk
Slowly pour your chosen milk over the back of a spoon to achieve a layered effect.
Add Flavors
If using, add vanilla extract or sprinkle cinnamon on top.
Serve & Enjoy your Iced Coffee
- Stir your coffee gently before drinking to combine all the flavors. The visual effect of the milk pouring into the coffee not only makes for a beautiful presentation but also allows you to appreciate the subtle mixing of ingredients
- Choose a tall glass to showcase the layers of your iced coffee. A clear glass enhances the visual appeal, allowing the swirling milk and coffee to shine.
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