Coffee lovers know that nothing compares to a freshly brewed cup—except maybe when the temperature rises, and a refreshing iced coffee becomes the perfect way to enjoy it.
With Met Éireann predicting that summer 2025 will likely be warmer than average, it’s time to embrace delicious chilled coffee drinks that keep us cool while satisfying our passion for great coffee.
Each of the five recipes below comes from different coffee traditions worldwide, offering unique flavours and preparation styles.
Let's explore the history and brewing techniques behind each one so you can enjoy them with deeper appreciation.
1. Classic Japanese-style iced coffeey
The Japanese iced coffee method was developed by coffee enthusiasts who wanted a bright, refreshing cold coffee without sacrificing the delicate flavours of high-quality beans.
Unlike traditional cold brew, which can mute acidity, this brewing style hot brews coffee directly onto ice, instantly locking in the complexity while cooling it.
This method was popularized by Japanese coffeehouses, particularly those specializing in pour-over techniques using equipment such as Hario V60 glass coffee brewer—hence why it’s often referred to as the Japanese iced pour-over method.
Ingredients:
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30g freshly ground coffee (medium grind)
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340ml hot water (just off the boil)
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150g ice cubes
Method:
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Place ice cubes into the Hario V60 glass coffee brewer or a carafe of your choice.
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Brew your coffee allowing the hot coffee to drip directly onto the ice.
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First, pour just enough hot water to wet the grounds, letting them bloom for 30 seconds before continuing to pour.
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Stir gently to ensure rapid cooling.
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Serve immediately and enjoy the bright, crisp flavours.
Pro Tip: Prefer a stronger flavour? Increase the coffee-to-water ratio slightly. Using the Peak water filter ensures clean, impurity-free brewing water for optimal taste.
2. Traditional cold brew coffee
The cold brew method has its roots in 17th-century Japan, where Kyoto-style coffee was brewed slowly using a drip technique.
However, the modern cold brew gained popularity in the United States and Europe, thanks to its ability to create a silky, naturally sweet coffee with low acidity.
Cold brew became a café staple when baristas realized its versatility—it can be served black, with milk, or even used as a base for cocktails. Its slow, steeping process enhances chocolatey and caramel-like flavours without bitterness, making it perfect for hot summer days.
Ingredients:
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80g coarsely ground coffee (use a coffee grinder for consistency)
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1 liter of cold, filtered water
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Ice cubes (for serving)
Method:
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In a Chemex Woodneck Glass Coffee Brewer or a large jar combine the coffee grounds with water.
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Stir gently and let sit at room temperature or refrigerate for 8 to 12 hours.
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Strain using Chemex coffee filters to remove fine coffee particles.
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Serve over ice for a smooth, naturally sweet iced coffee.
Pro Tip: You can serve your cold brew diluted with milk or any plant-based milk, such as oat or coconut milk, for extra flavour. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days before acidity kicks in.
3. Greek frappe (Foamy iced coffee)
Invented in Greece during the 1957 Thessaloniki International Fair, the Greek frappe was accidentally discovered. A Nescafé salesman named Dimitris Vakondios was experimenting with ways to make coffee on the go. He shook instant coffee with water in a shaker, and to his surprise, it created a thick, foamy coffee that quickly became Greece’s signature summer drink.
Since then, the frappe has been a staple in Greek cafés, enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.
This method creates a bold, frothy texture that’s perfect for a warm summer day.
Ingredients:
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2 tsp instant coffee
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2 tsp sugar
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50ml cold water
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Ice cubes
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100ml milk (optional)
Method:
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In a shaker or jar, combine instant coffee, sugar, and cold water.
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Shake vigorously for 30 seconds until thick foam forms.
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Pour the foamy coffee into a glass filled with ice cubes.
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Add milk if desired and gently stir to combine.
Pro Tip: Want extra indulgence? Swap milk for condensed milk to create a creamy, sweet frappe. Use an electric mixer for ultra-thick foam.
4. Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)
Coffee arrived in Vietnam in 1857, introduced by a French Catholic priest, but fresh milk was scarce at the time, so condensed milk started to be used instead.
Vietnamese iced coffee is strong, bold, and sweet, thanks to the combination of robusta beans, which contain higher caffeine levels than arabica beans, and condensed milk.
Traditionally made with a Vietnamese Phin filter, it delivers intense caramelized flavours perfect for cooling down.
Ingredients:
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20g finely ground robusta coffee
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100ml hot water
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30ml condensed milk
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Ice cubes
Method:
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Pour condensed milk into a glass.
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Brew Vietnamese coffee using a Phin filter directly over the condensed milk.
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Stir to mix the coffee and sweetened condensed milk together.
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Pour over ice and enjoy the creamy, bold taste.
Pro Tip: For an authentic experience, use dark roasted robusta beans, known for their deep chocolate and nutty flavours.
5. Espresso tonic: a modern refreshing twist
Though relatively new, espresso tonic was pioneered by Scandinavian coffee culture, where specialty cafés experimented with refreshing coffee drinks.
Combining tonic water’s bitter effervescence with bold espresso, it became a summer favourite among coffee enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
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Double shot espresso
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150ml tonic water
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Ice cubes
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Lemon or orange peel (for garnish)
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Simple syrup (optional)
Method:
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Fill a glass with ice cubes.
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Pour tonic water over the ice.
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Brew a fresh, high-quality espresso using your favourite machine.
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Slowly pour the espresso over the tonic, letting it settle naturally.
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Garnish with citrus peel for a sophisticated twist.
Pro Tip: Use high-quality tonic water to ensure balanced bitterness and citrus notes that complement the espresso’s depth. Experiment with flavoured syrups for variations.
Essential accessories for the perfect iced coffee
To truly elevate your iced coffee experience, investing in the right accessories can make a huge difference. We recommend checking out our blog on essential coffee accessories.
Each of these accessories ensures that your iced coffee is brewed to perfection, preserving every delicate flavour note while keeping it refreshing and smooth.
Ready to make your best iced coffee yet?
As summer is just around the corner, there's no better time to explore iced coffee variations that offer both refreshment and indulgence.
Whether you prefer a classic cold brew, a frothy Greek frappe, or a zesty espresso tonic, these recipes will keep you cool and energized all summer long.
☕ Here’s to sunny days and icy coffee delights! ✨
