When I think of summer afternoons, I envision sitting on the porch with a good book, the sun casting a warm glow, and a chilled glass of spiced iced coffee in hand. There’s something about that perfect blend of rich coffee, a hint of spice, and a velvety creaminess that feels like a warm hug on a hot day. This drink brings back memories of lazy days spent at the café with friends, sharing stories and laughter over delicious sips.
But let’s be honest—if you’re a beginner home cook, the thought of tackling a recipe involving multiple steps, sweeteners, and whipped cream might make you feel a tad overwhelmed. You might wonder if you’ll get it right on your first try, or if it will end in a disappointing mess. It’s not uncommon to feel a bit anxious, especially when you’re trying something new. However, I’m here to assure you that this spiced iced coffee recipe is an absolute breeze, and I’ll guide you every step of the way. By the end, you’ll be sipping this delightful drink with pride!
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Why I Love This Recipe of Spiced Iced Coffee
I adore this spiced iced coffee recipe because it transforms a simple cup of coffee into something extraordinary. It’s not just about the caffeine kick; it’s about infusing warmth and spice into your day. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility—whether you’re entertaining guests, enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, or trying to impress friends with your barista skills, this drink fits the bill.
Moreover, this recipe invites beginner cooks to explore their kitchens. The use of spices allows you to engage in a fun experimental process. You can adjust the flavors to your liking, making it an approachable yet sophisticated concoction. Plus, the cozy aroma that wafts through your kitchen will have everyone eagerly gathering around as you put it together.
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Spiced Iced Coffee
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A refreshing twist on traditional iced coffee, infused with warming spices and topped with whipped cream.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 cinnamon sticks
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger (peeled and smashed)
- 2 star anise pods (broken)
- 7 tablespoons ground coffee
- 8 ounces hot water
- 2 cups cubed ice
- 1/2 cup Spiced Simple Syrup
- 1/2 cup whipping cream (whipped to soft peak stage)
- Optional: Milk or non-dairy milk
- Optional: Chocolate syrup
- Optional: Nutmeg or cloves
Instructions
- Make the Spiced Simple Syrup: Combine sugar, water, cinnamon sticks, ginger, and star anise in a saucepan. Heat until sugar dissolves, then let steep for 30 minutes.
- Brew the Coffee: Place ice in a Chemex, add coffee grounds, then slowly pour hot water over them to brew.
- Whip the Cream: In a mixing bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form.
- Assemble the Drink: Fill glasses with ice, pour brewed coffee over, add syrup to taste, and top with whipped cream.
- Enjoy your spiced iced coffee!
Notes
Feel free to experiment with the spice levels and sweetness to suit your taste!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Beverage
- Method: Brewing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: iced coffee, spiced coffee, summer drink, homemade coffee, coffee recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need for Spiced Iced Coffee
Before we get to the fun part—making the coffee!—let’s go over what you’ll need. Don’t be intimidated; most of these ingredients are common pantry staples, and you might already have a few. Here’s the breakdown:
Essential Ingredients:
For the Spiced Simple Syrup:
- 1/2 cup sugar: This will sweeten the syrup and balance the spices.
- 1/2 cup water: The base to dissolve the sugar.
- 2 cinnamon sticks (preferably Vietnamese cinnamon): For warmth and a fragrant touch.
- 1 inch piece of fresh ginger (peeled and smashed): Adds a refreshing zing.
- 2 star anise pods (broken): For that warming, licorice-like flavor.
For the Coffee:
- 7 tablespoons ground coffee: Choose your favorite roast for the best flavor.
- 8 ounces hot water: This will brew your coffee to perfection.
- 2 cups cubed ice: To chill your drink.
- 1/2 cup Spiced Simple Syrup: For the sweet and spicy flavor boost.
- 1/2 cup whipping cream (whipped to soft peak stage): This adds that luscious creaminess at the finish.
Optional Add-Ons:
- Milk or non-dairy milk: For those who prefer a lighter coffee option.
- Chocolate syrup: If you’re craving a mocha twist.
- Nutmeg or cloves: Want even more depth? These spices work beautifully!
Substitutions and Shortcuts:
If you don’t have some of these ingredients on hand, don’t fret! You can easily make substitutions:
- Use pre-made simple syrup instead of making your own, though fresh is always better.
- Ground ginger can replace fresh ginger if you’re in a pinch.
- Any coffee-making method works—the Chemex is simply my favorite for its rich flavor, but a drip coffee maker or French press will do just fine!
How to Make Spiced Iced Coffee Step-by-Step
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of making this spiced iced coffee. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll craft a delightful drink that’s sure to impress!
Step 1: Make the Spiced Simple Syrup
First up, we’ll create the spiced simple syrup. This syrup is the star of the show, bringing in all those lovely flavors.
- In a small saucepan, combine 1/2 cup sugar, 1/2 cup water, 2 cinnamon sticks, 1 inch piece of smashed ginger, and 2 broken star anise pods.
- Heat over medium until the sugar dissolves completely, stirring often. As it warms, you’ll start to smell the wonderful spices mingling.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let it steep for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to infuse beautifully.
- After steeping, strain the syrup into a jar or bottle and refrigerate if you’re not using it immediately. It’ll keep well for a week or so, just in case you want to whip up another batch soon!
Step 2: Brew the Coffee
Now it’s time for everyone’s favorite—brewing the coffee!
- I recommend using a Chemex drip coffee maker for a clean and rich flavor, but your trusty coffee maker will work just fine.
- If using a Chemex, place 2 cups of ice directly in the carafe to chill the coffee as it brews.
- In the coffee filter, add 7 tablespoons of ground coffee.
- Slowly pour 8 ounces of hot water over the grounds, ensuring all grounds get evenly saturated. Let the coffee drip down into the carafe, where the ice will cool it instantly!
Step 3: Whip the Cream
While your coffee brews, it’s time to get that silky whipped cream ready.
- In a mixing bowl, pour in 1/2 cup of whipping cream.
- Using a hand mixer or whisk, whip the cream until it reaches the soft peak stage. The cream should hold its shape but not be overly fluffy—think nice and thick, inviting you to spoon it right on top of your coffee.
Step 4: Assemble Your Spiced Iced Coffee
Time for the grand finish! You’ll combine all the lovely elements.
- Take 4 glasses and fill each with ice cubes.
- Pour your freshly brewed coffee over the ice.
- Stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of your spiced simple syrup to taste. The sweetness and spice will harmonize beautifully with the coffee.
- Top each glass with a generous spoonful of whipped cream. Just look at that beautiful layer—it’s almost too pretty to drink!
Step 5: Enjoy!
Take a moment to appreciate your handiwork before diving in. Sip, savor, and enjoy the cozy flavors of your homemade spiced iced coffee!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
No recipe is without its pitfalls, especially for new cooks. Here are a few common mistakes and how to avoid them:
Not Measuring Ingredients
One of the simplest mistakes is not measuring ingredients accurately. Baking and cooking rely on precise measurements, particularly when making syrups and coffee. Always grab your measuring cups and spoons to ensure balanced flavors.
Overcooking the Simple Syrup
It’s tempting to rush the spiced simple syrup, but overheating can lead to a caramel-like texture rather than the syrupy consistency you want. Just remember: medium heat and keep an eye on it!
Under-Whipping the Cream
Achieving the perfect whip is important for that creamy topping. Avoid under-whipping your cream; it should be thick and hold its shape without being grainy. If it turns butter-like, it’s too far gone!
Too Much or Too Little Sweetener
Balance is key when adding the spiced simple syrup. Start small and adjust gradually to find the perfect sweetness level for your taste buds. Taste as you go!
Quick Wins for Beginner Cooks
If you’re just getting started with cooking, the good news is that there are quick tips to help you navigate your journey like a pro.
Follow Recipes Closely
Don’t feel shy about following a recipe step-by-step—especially as a beginner. This will build your confidence and teach you about timing and flavor pairing.
Get Comfortable with Your Tools
Invest time in learning how to use your kitchen tools, whether it’s your coffee maker or the hand mixer. The easier it is to use your tools, the more enjoyable cooking will be.
Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes
Mistakes are a part of learning. If something doesn’t turn out right, take it as a lesson. More often than not, you can still salvage a dish or learn how to improve next time!
Enjoy the Process
Cooking should be fun, not a chore. Take the time to appreciate the sounds, smells, and textures as you prepare food. This mindfulness will enhance your overall experience.
Would you be interested in more frozen desserts? I invite you to check the list of 16 Best Iced Coffee Recipes, or the Ninja Creami recipes.
Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready
Once you’ve mastered the basics, here are some pro tips to elevate your spiced iced coffee-making:
Experiment with Flavors
Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spice combinations. Try adding cardamom, or even a splash of vanilla extract to your whipped cream. This infuses a whole new flavor profile.
Try Cold Brew Coffee
For a smoother, less acidic taste, consider making a cold brew coffee ahead of time. Simply steep coarsely ground coffee in water overnight, strain, and enjoy. It’s fantastic over ice!
Play with Presentation
First impressions matter. Consider serving your spiced iced coffee in cute mugs or fancy glasses. Garnish with a cinnamon stick or a dusting of cocoa powder for a café-like experience at home!
Make a Batch
If you’re entertaining or want to enjoy this drink several times, feel free to double or triple the recipe. Just remember to store your spiced simple syrup properly!
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve just learned how to make delightful spiced iced coffee that’s both cozy and impressive. It’s easier than it looks, and with a bit of practice, you’ll feel more confident in your culinary skills. Remember, the beauty of this drink lies in its customizable nature—you can adjust the spices, sweetness, and creaminess to fit your taste perfectly.
Next time you need a pick-me-up or want to impress family and friends, reach for this recipe. Enjoy each moment as you sip on this heavenly coffee that you made with your own two hands.
If you enjoyed this recipe, please share it with friends or leave a comment below with your experience. I’d love to hear how your spiced iced coffee turned out! Also, remember to join our community on Pinterest and Facebook !
FAQs About Spiced Iced Coffee
What is spiced iced coffee?
Spiced iced coffee is a refreshing twist on traditional iced coffee, infused with flavors from spices like cinnamon, ginger, and star anise, combined with whipped cream and sweetened with a homemade spiced simple syrup.
Can I make spiced iced coffee vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute cow’s milk and cream with any non-dairy options, like almond milk or coconut cream, and use a plant-based sweetener to create a vegan version.
How do I store leftover spiced simple syrup?
Store any leftover spiced simple syrup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about a week; just give it a shake before using!
Can I use instant coffee for this recipe?
While fresh ground coffee yields the best flavor, you can use instant coffee powder. Just make sure to dissolve it in hot water first!
How can I adjust the sweetness of my spiced iced coffee?
Start with a small amount of spiced simple syrup, tasting as you go. You can always add more if you prefer a sweeter iced coffee, but it’s harder to take sweetness away once it’s done!
