Escape the Heat! Craft Coffee Shop-worthy Iced Coffee at Home

Homemade Iced Coffee Recipe: Beat the Heat!
This recipe creates a refreshing, customizable iced coffee that's better than anything you'll get at a coffee shop.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup strong brewed coffee (cold brew recommended, but any strong coffee will work)
• 1 cup ice (crushed ice preferred)
• ½ cup milk of your choice (dairy, nut-based, oat – the choice is yours!)
• Sweetener to taste (sugar, honey, agave nectar, sugar substitute, or none at all!)
• Optional flavorings: Vanilla extract, cinnamon, chocolate syrup, caramel sauce
Instructions:
1. Brew Strong Coffee: Brew a strong cup of coffee using your preferred method (French press, pour-over, or regular coffee pot). If you have time, cold brew coffee is the ultimate choice for a smooth iced coffee.
2. Chill it Out: Pour your hot coffee over crushed ice in a mason jar or pitcher. Stir gently to combine. Let it sit for 5 minutes, or until the coffee is chilled.
3. Milk Time (Optional): Pour in your desired amount of milk. Slowly add the milk while stirring gently to avoid over-diluting the coffee.
4. Sweeten to Taste: Add your preferred sweetener (sugar, honey, agave nectar, etc.) a little at a time, stirring after each addition, until you reach your desired level of sweetness. For a sugar-free option, skip the sweetener altogether.
5. Flavor Frenzy (Optional): Now's the time to get creative! Add a splash of vanilla extract for a classic touch, a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth, or drizzle with chocolate or caramel sauce for a decadent treat.
6. Serve and Sip: Pour your iced coffee into a tall glass filled with fresh ice. Grab a straw and enjoy your delicious homemade iced coffee!
Tips:
• For a thicker iced coffee, use less ice or add less milk.
• Leftover iced coffee can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Revive the flavor by adding fresh ice before serving.
• Want a fun twist? Freeze leftover coffee cubes and use them instead of ice for a slow-melting, ultra-chilled iced coffee.
Enjoy your cool and refreshing homemade iced coffee!