How to Make Iced Coffee at Home

Iced coffee has become a favorite beverage for coffee lovers, especially during warm weather. Making iced coffee at home is not only convenient but also cost-effective, allowing you to customize flavors and sweetness levels to your preference.

Iced coffee is simply brewed coffee that has been cooled and served over ice. It differs from cold brew, which is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period. Traditional iced coffee is faster to make and retains the bright and bold flavors of the coffee. With Hills Bros. products, you can elevate your homemade iced coffee experience effortlessly.

Essential Ingredients and Equipment

To make the perfect iced coffee, you’ll need the right ingredients and equipment to achieve the best flavor and texture. Additionally, the way you chill and serve your iced coffee can make all the difference in creating a refreshing experience.

• Coffee: A strong brew of Hills Bros. Ground or Instant Coffee to ensure a bold taste.

• Water: Filtered water to enhance the coffee’s natural flavors.

• Ice: Essential for chilling your drink and keeping it refreshing.

• Optional Add-ins: Sweeteners, syrups, milk, or cream for customization.

• Equipment: A coffee maker, French press, or instant coffee mix; a glass or tumbler for serving.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Traditional Iced Coffee

Making a delicious iced coffee at home starts with brewing a strong and flavorful coffee base. The key to a well-balanced iced coffee is accounting for dilution, ensuring that even as the ice melts, the taste remains rich and full-bodied. Follow these steps to create a refreshing iced coffee that rivals any café.

1. Brew the Coffee 

Start by brewing a strong cup of ground coffee using your preferred method. For a bolder taste, use more coffee grounds than you would for a regular hot coffee. A good rule of thumb is to use one to two tablespoons of coffee per six ounces of water. If you’re short on time, Hills Bros. Instant Coffee offers a quick and convenient alternative, dissolving instantly in hot water for a smooth taste.

2. Cool the Coffee

Once brewed, allow the coffee to cool to room temperature. This prevents the ice from melting too quickly and watering down the coffee. For a faster chilling method, transfer the hot coffee into a heat-resistant container and place it in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, you can also pour the coffee over a heat-safe glass filled with ice, though this may slightly dilute the strength.

3. Prepare Your Glass

While your coffee is cooling, select a tall glass or tumbler and fill it with fresh ice cubes. For an extra burst of flavor, try using coffee ice cubes made from frozen Hills Bros. coffee or cappuccino mix—these will keep your drink chilled without diluting the taste.

4. Pour and Serve

Once cooled, slowly pour the coffee over the ice, filling the glass about three-quarters full. At this stage, you can customize your drink with milk, cream, or your choice of sweeteners like sugar, honey, or flavored syrups. Stir well to blend the flavors and enjoy your refreshing homemade iced coffee.

Experience the Versatility of Hills Bros.

Iced Cappuccino: Hills Bros. Cappuccino makes it easy to create a flavorful iced cappuccino. Simply mix 3 tablespoons of Hills Bros. Classic Cappuccino Mix with 6-8 ounces of hot water, stir well, let it cool, and then pour over ice. This gives you a creamy and delicious iced  drink in minutes.

Flavored Iced Coffee & Creamer Alternative: Hills Bros. Cappuccino also works as a rich and flavorful creamer alternative for your iced coffee. With delicious flavors like French Vanilla, Double Mocha, and Salted Caramel, you can stir a spoonful of your favorite flavor into your brewed coffee to add a smooth, creamy texture and a hint of sweetness. 

Bring the Café Home: Enjoy Your Perfect Iced Coffee

With Hills Bros., crafting the perfect iced coffee at home has never been easier. Our high-quality coffee products bring bold flavors and smooth textures to every sip, allowing you to enjoy café-style iced coffee anytime.

Whether you're in the mood for a strong and invigorating brew, a rich and creamy cappuccino, or a sweet and indulgent flavored treat, we have the perfect option to satisfy your cravings. Create the perfect iced coffee with Hills Bros., and experience a refreshing coffee like never before!