For coffee lovers, a day without coffee is unimaginable, regardless of the season. Coffee is not only a delicious beverage but also a powerhouse ingredient packed with caffeine and antioxidants. It provides a refreshing jolt of energy, increases attention, and helps people stay awake. However, sipping hot coffee during the sweltering summer months is far from appealing. That’s why coffee lovers worldwide have come up with numerous variations of cold coffee over the years, offering a cool and invigorating alternative. Cold coffee is chilled to perfection, often poured over ice cubes, and can keep you hydrated and focused during the summer. The best part is that most cold coffee varieties are easy to make at home, eliminating the need to venture out during a heatwave to satisfy your coffee cravings.
In this article, we will explore seven popular cold coffee varieties from different parts of the world that you must try this summer. From Japanese cold brew to Latin American Iced Horchata Latte, Vietnamese Iced Coffee to the Italian Affogato, these delightful concoctions are sure to keep you cool and satisfied during the hottest days.
Seven Amazing Cold Coffee Varieties:
- Cold Brew: Originating in Japan, Cold Brew coffee has been a staple in Japanese culture for centuries. It involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically ranging from 12 to 24 hours. The result is a smooth and less acidic coffee concentrate that can be enjoyed chilled. Cold Brew is sometimes diluted with milk or chocolate and served over ice. In Japan, it is also known as Kyoto-style coffee or Dutch coffee.
- Frappuccino: The Frappuccino is a beloved cold coffee variant that gained immense popularity worldwide. It originated in the United States, initially developed by George Howell’s Massachusetts coffee chain and later adopted by Starbucks in 1995. The Frappuccino combines the elements of a frappe, a thick ice cream milkshake, with a cappuccino, espresso coffee blended with frothed milk. It is made by blending coffee, milk, and ice, resulting in a creamy and indulgent beverage. Nowadays, Frappuccinos come in various flavors such as vanilla, mocha, and caramel.
- Iced Horchata Latte: Horchata, a Latin American beverage, has gained global recognition due to its sweet and spiced flavors. Originating in Spain, Horchata is traditionally made with rice milk, though variations using melon or sesame seed milk also exist. This naturally vegan drink can be transformed into a delightful Iced Horchata Latte by mixing espresso with Horchata, ice, and a touch of cinnamon. It offers a refreshing and lactose-intolerant-friendly option for coffee lovers.
- Iced Vietnamese Coffee: Vietnamese coffee has a rich history and distinct characteristics. Introduced by a French Catholic priest in 1857, coffee quickly became an integral part of Vietnamese culture. Iced Vietnamese Coffee is prepared by using a traditional Vietnamese coffee filter, passing dark-roasted coffee through hot water directly into a cup of condensed milk and ice. To experience the authentic flavor, sourcing Robusta coffee from Vietnam is recommended.
- Affogato: While Affogato leans more towards being a dessert than a traditional drink, it remains a popular choice during the summer months. The exact origins of Affogato are unknown, but it gained popularity in Italy during the 1950s and later spread to the United States in the 1980s. To make Affogato, a scoop or two of plain vanilla gelato or ice cream is drowned in a shot of hot espresso, creating a delightful combination. It is often served with biscotti for a touch of crunch.
- Iced Caramel Macchiato: The Macchiato, known for a small amount of milk poured over dark espresso, is a traditional Italian drink. However, when it found its way to the United States, it underwent a summertime transformation, resulting in the Iced Caramel Macchiato. To create this cold coffee variety, a bit of milk is poured over ice cubes and combined with vanilla syrup. Two shots of espresso are then added, followed by a generous drizzle of caramel. The result is a sweet and refreshing coffee treat.
- Iced Americano: Originating in the United States, the Iced Americano is a tall glass of Caffe Americano poured over a generous amount of ice cubes. The Americano is a diluted form of espresso that originated during World War II when American soldiers stationed in Italy mixed hot water with a double shot of espresso. Iced Americano takes this concept a step further by providing an icy and diluted version of the beverage, creating a revitalizing drink for hot summer days.
Final Thoughts:
When the summer heat becomes unbearable, there’s no better way to find relief than by indulging in a cold coffee blend. With the variety of options available, you can explore different cultures and flavors without leaving the comfort of your home. From the rich and smooth Cold Brew to the creamy and indulgent Frappuccino, from the spiced Iced Horchata Latte to the bold and sweet Iced Vietnamese Coffee, there’s something to suit every palate. Don’t forget to treat yourself to the delightful Affogato, the refreshing Iced Caramel Macchiato, and the revitalizing Iced Americano. These seven cold coffee varieties will undoubtedly elevate your summer coffee experience and keep you cool throughout the season. So, grab your favorite blend, whip up a delicious cold coffee, and let the flavors transport you to coffee paradise, one sip at a time.
