Refreshing Iced Coffee
Drinks To Add To
Your Menu
What could be more delightful than sipping on a refreshing iced coffee drink? Whether you're a cafe owner looking to enhance your menu, or an avid coffee lover seeking for a new easy to drink favourite, there are a range of delicious iced coffee drinks to try for the best in caffeinated refreshment.
Read on to explore our curated list of tantalising and invigorating iced coffee concoctions that will excite your taste buds and keep you cool all season long.
The Rise In Popularity Of Iced & Cold Coffee
In recent years, the popularity of iced and cold coffee has skyrocketed, becoming a staple in the beverage industry. From trendy independent coffee shops to favourite local cafes, these chilled creations have captured the hearts and taste buds of coffee enthusiasts in the UK and around the world.
As data from Google shows, interest in iced coffee has increased quite significantly amongst UK consumers over the last two decades, and typically tends to peak during the summer.
When the temperatures rise, customers seek icy alternatives to their beloved hot brews, making it a perfect opportunity for businesses to capitalise on this growing demand.
By incorporating summer coffee drinks into your menu, you not only cater to the evolving preferences of your customers but also attract new patrons looking for refreshing beverages to beat the heat.
Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew is a smooth and rich iced coffee beverage that has gained immense popularity in recent years. Unlike traditional iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then chilled, cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours.
This slow extraction process brings out the coffee's natural flavours while minimising acidity and bitterness, resulting in a mellow and less acidic taste profile. The resulting concentrate is then diluted with water or milk and served over ice, creating a refreshing and satisfying drink that can be customised with various flavours and toppings.
As with hot coffee, using the best quality coffee beans is essential for making a great cold brew. Look for convection roasted coffee, which results in a smoother taste that perfectly suits cold brew.
How to make...
Cold Brew Coffee
1. Grind your coffee beans
2. Combine coffee and water
3. Steep for the desired duration
4. Strain the mixture
5. Dilute and serve
We We Love Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew provides a refreshing alternative to hot coffee during the summer months. The slow extraction process of cold brew creates a smoother, less acidic taste that appeals to those who find traditional iced coffee too bitter. It’s the perfect option for coffee lovers who want a cold drink on a hot day.
The versatility of cold brew also allows for customisation with different flavours, coffee syrups, or toppings, providing customers with a personalised coffee experience.
For retailers, incorporating cold brew into their menus presents an opportunity to attract new customers and boost sales. The rising popularity of cold brew means that offering this trendy beverage can attract coffee enthusiasts seeking unique and satisfying options.
Additionally, cold brew can be prepared in larger batches and stored, making it convenient for busy cafes or restaurants to meet customer demand efficiently.
Frappe
Frappes are a popular and indulgent iced coffee drink that originated in Greece and have become a beloved beverage worldwide. It is a blended concoction of coffee, milk, sugar, and ice, resulting in a creamy and frothy texture.
Frappes often include flavourings like chocolate, caramel, or vanilla, and are topped with whipped cream for an added touch of decadence. This delightful drink offers a perfect combination of coffee, sweetness, and chill, making it a favourite treat for coffee lovers.
How to make...
A Frappe
1. Prepare the coffee
2. Sweeten and chill
3. Blend with ice
4. Customise and serve
For an alternative and incredibly convenient way to make frappes, you can also find a range of frappe mixes available. These enable you to create frappes without the need to make and cool coffee. Simply blend ice, milk and your choice of frappe mix for a delicious tasting drink in seconds. At PureGusto we stock high quality frappe mixes from brands like Zuma, as well as our own exclusive mixes which are made from real, natural ingredients for the best in taste and quality.
Why We Love Frappes
Frappes provide a delicious and indulgent coffee experience. The combination of coffee, milk, and sweetness creates a satisfying flavour profile that appeals to those seeking a treat-like coffee beverage. Frappes are also highly customisable, allowing customers to personalise their drinks with various flavours, syrups, and toppings to suit their preferences.
For retailers, frappes present an opportunity to cater to customers' desire for a decadent and refreshing coffee option. By offering frappes on the menu, cafes and coffee shops can attract customers who enjoy specialty drinks and are looking for an indulgent treat.
The versatility of frappes allows for creativity in developing signature recipes, making them a unique selling point for cafes and coffee shops. Frappes can also be upsold with additional toppings or served in larger sizes, contributing to increased sales and profitability.
Boba Tea & Latte
Boba Latte, also known as Bubble Tea Latte or Boba Milk Tea, is a popular and unique iced coffee drink that originated in Taiwan and has since gained widespread popularity worldwide. It combines the smoothness of a latte with the fun and chewy texture of boba pearls.
Boba pearls are made from tapioca starch and have a distinctive texture that adds an enjoyable element to the drink. Boba Lattes typically consist of a base of milk, coffee or tea, sweetener, and boba pearls.
The drink can be customised with different flavours, such as matcha, taro, or fruit infusions, offering a wide variety of options to suit different preferences.
How to make...
Boba Tea or Lattes
1. Cook the boba pearls
2. Brew the coffee or tea
3. Sweeten and chill
4. Prepare the milk
5. Assemble the drink
6. Serve and enjoy
Why We Love Boba Tea & Lattes
Boba tea or latte offers a unique and enjoyable experience to both customers and retailers. It provides a delightful combination of flavours, textures, and customisation options. The boba pearls add a chewy and fun element to the creamy base, making each sip an exciting experience.
The ability to choose from various flavours, such as matcha or fruit infusions, allows customers to find their favourite combinations and personalise their boba tea drinks to suit their taste preferences.
For retailers, bobas present an opportunity to attract a diverse customer base. The popularity of boba tea and bubble tea shops has been on the rise, and incorporating Boba Lattes into the menu can help cafes or specialty beverage establishments tap into this trend.
Boba lattes are visually appealing and Instagram-worthy, making them highly shareable on social media platforms, which can attract more customers and generate buzz. Additionally, offering a variety of boba flavours and milk options allows for versatility and the ability to cater to a wide range of customer preferences.
Caramel Iced Coffee
Caramel iced coffee is a luscious and indulgent iced coffee drink that combines the rich flavours of caramel with the smoothness of coffee. It is a perfect blend of sweetness and bitterness, creating a delightful taste experience.
Caramel iced coffee typically consists of chilled brewed coffee, milk (regular or dairy-free options), sweet caramel syrup, and ice. It can be further enhanced with whipped cream, caramel drizzle, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for added complexity.
This creamy and decadent drink is a favourite for those who enjoy a touch of sweetness in their coffee.
How to make...
Caramel Iced Coffee
1. Brew and chill the coffee
2. Sweeten the coffee
3. Prepare the milk
4. Assemble the drink
5. Garnish and enjoy
Why We Love Caramel Iced Coffee
Caramel iced coffee provides a decadent and flavour-packed alternative to regular iced coffee. The combination of caramel and coffee creates a harmonious balance of sweetness and bitterness, appealing to those with a sweet tooth and coffee enthusiasts alike. The ability to customise the level of sweetness and the option to add additional toppings or flavours make it a versatile and personalised beverage choice.
For retailers, caramel iced coffee can be a profitable addition to the menu. Its popularity ensures a broad customer appeal, attracting those who seek specialty coffee beverages and those looking for a sweet treat. The addition of caramel-infused options allows for creativity in developing signature recipes, distinguishing the establishment from competitors. Caramel Iced Coffee also presents opportunities for upselling by offering premium toppings, such as whipped cream or drizzles and sauces for coffee, leading to increased sales and profitability.
Chocolate Chip Frappuccino
The chocolate chip frappuccino is a popular and indulgent iced coffee beverage that combines the rich flavours of chocolate and coffee with the delightful crunch of chocolate chips. It is a decadent treat that satisfies both coffee and chocolate lovers.
The drink typically consists of a blend of coffee, milk, ice, chocolate syrup, and chocolate chips. It is topped with whipped cream and more chocolate chips for an extra touch of sweetness and texture. The chocolate chip frappuccino offers a delightful combination of flavours and textures, making it a beloved choice for those seeking a creamy and indulgent coffee experience.
How to make...
A Chocolate Chip Frappuccino
1. Brew the coffee
2. Blend the ingredients
3. Customise the sweetness
4. Serve and garnish
Why We Love Chocolate Chip Frappucinos
The chocolate chip frappuccino provides a delightful combination of flavours, textures, and customisation options. The blend of coffee, milk, and chocolate creates a creamy and indulgent beverage that satisfies sweet cravings.
The chocolate chips add a delightful crunch and bursts of chocolatey goodness. Customers can further personalise their Frappuccinos by adjusting the sweetness level or adding extra toppings like caramel drizzle or a dusting of cocoa powder.
For retailers, the chocolate chip frappuccino can be a lucrative addition to the menu. Its popularity ensures a broad customer appeal, attracting coffee enthusiasts and dessert lovers alike.
The visually appealing nature of the drink, with its whipped cream and chocolate chip garnish, can generate engagement and social sharing, leading to increased foot traffic and sales. Additionally, offering customisation options, seasonal variations, or limited-time flavours can create excitement and drive customer loyalty. Think about offering a pumpkin spice or eggnog frappuccino, or unique combinations like chocolate and hazelnut or white chocolate and raspberry using flavoured coffee syrups.
Affogato
Affogato is a delectable and elegant Italian dessert-style coffee that combines the richness of espresso with the creamy indulgence of gelato or ice cream.
The word "Affogato" translates to "drowned" in Italian, which perfectly describes the preparation of this delightful treat. A scoop of velvety gelato or ice cream is "drowned" with a shot of hot, freshly brewed espresso, resulting in a heavenly contrast of temperatures and textures.
The hot espresso melts the cold gelato, creating a luscious and harmonious blend of flavours. Affogato is a simple yet luxurious coffee-based dessert that satisfies both coffee and dessert cravings.
How to make...
Affogato
1. Brew the espresso
2. Prepare the gelato or ice cream
3. Pour the espresso
4. Serve and savour
Why We Love Affogato
Affogato provides a luxurious and satisfying coffee and dessert experience. The contrast of temperatures and textures between the hot espresso and cold gelato creates a delightful sensation in every spoonful.
This drink’s simplicity allows the flavours of both the espresso and gelato to shine, making it a treat suitable for any time of the day. Additionally, customers can tailor their Affogato with different gelato flavours, allowing them to create a personalised and unique dessert coffee experience.
For retailers, Affogato can be a standout addition to the menu. Its elegance and simplicity offer a sophisticated dessert option that can elevate the coffee shop's offerings. Affogato appeals to a wide range of customers, from coffee enthusiasts looking for a dessert-style coffee to those seeking a sweet indulgence.
Its preparation requires minimal time and ingredients, making it an efficient and profitable choice for coffee establishments. It provides a great desert menu option for sit-in establishments, and a simple yet sophisticated takeaway choice that’s perfect for impulse purchases in summer.
Coffee Smoothie
The Coffee Smoothie is a versatile and energising beverage that combines the bold flavour of coffee with the creaminess of a classic smoothie. It's a delightful fusion of the coffee experience and the refreshing goodness of a fruit or protein smoothie.
Coffee Smoothies can vary in ingredients and flavours, but they generally include a base of brewed coffee or cold brew, along with ingredients like bananas, yoghurt, milk, protein powder, and a medley of fruits. Blended together, these elements create a harmonious balance of flavours, textures, and a satisfying caffeine kick.
These smoothies are a fantastic option for those seeking a nourishing and invigorating drink that's equally enjoyable for breakfast, a post-workout refreshment, or an afternoon pick-me-up.
How to make...
A Coffee Smoothie
1. Brew or prepare the coffee
2. Choose your base
3. Add fruits and flavourings
4. Add the coffee
5. Blend and adjust consistency
6. Customise and serve
For the ultimate convenience, you can also find some fantastic smoothies and shakes that are ready to pour. Simply blend with coffee and ice for a delicious new twist on a fruit smoothie.
Why We Love Coffee Smoothies
Coffee smoothies present a balanced fusion of energy and nutrition. The blend of coffee and smoothie ingredients delivers sustained vitality, catering to breakfast needs, workout fuel, and refreshing breaks. The customisable nature allows for dietary preferences, offering a versatile and satisfying beverage.
For retailers, the coffee smoothies offer a versatile and strategic menu addition. Appealing to health-conscious customers and coffee enthusiasts alike, it diversifies offerings and is suitable to drink throughout the day.
With the potential for various flavours and customisation options, coffee smoothies appeal to a broad range of customers, helping to extend the appeal of your business. This versatile option aligns with contemporary wellness trends and can elevate the venue's appeal, drawing increased patrons and driving revenue.
Iced Chai Latte
The iced chai latte is a flavorful and refreshing beverage that marries the aromatic spices of chai with the coolness of iced milk. Chai, a traditional Indian spiced tea, is the star of this drink, featuring a blend of spices like cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and ginger.
The Iced Chai Latte involves steeping chai tea in hot water, sweetening it, and then chilling it before mixing it with cold milk. The result is a harmonious balance of bold spices and creamy milk, creating a beverage that's both invigorating and soothing. This drink offers a delightful blend of cultural flavours with a modern twist.
How to make...
Iced Chai Latte
1. Brew the chai tea
2. Sweeten and chill
3. Prepare the milk
4. Mix and serve
5. Garnish (optional)
Why We Love Iced Chai Lattes
Iced chai lattes present a unique and flavorful alternative to traditional iced coffee drinks. The aromatic blend of spices in the chai tea creates a sensory experience that's both comforting and invigorating. The cold milk adds creaminess, making it a satisfying and balanced drink option. The Iced Chai Latte is also a versatile choice, appealing to those who prefer a departure from standard coffee flavours.
For coffee shops and cafes, the iced chai latte expands the menu's diversity, attracting a different set of taste preferences. It can cater to customers seeking caffeine-free options or those drawn to international flavours.
As a refreshing and distinctive choice, it enhances the establishment's appeal and sets it apart from competitors. The iced chai latte's adaptability allows for creative variations, encouraging customer engagement and potentially driving repeat business.
Espresso Martini
The Espresso Martini is a sophisticated and invigorating cocktail that artfully blends the robust intensity of espresso with the smoothness of vodka and a touch of sweetness. This drink is the perfect marriage of two beloved classics: coffee and cocktails.
Typically served in a martini glass, the Espresso Martini combines freshly brewed espresso, vodka, coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua), and simple syrup.
The result is a harmonious fusion of flavours, with the richness of the coffee and the warmth of the alcohol creating a refined and indulgent beverage. The Espresso Martini is a timeless choice for those seeking a sophisticated and caffeinated cocktail experience.
How to make...
an Espresso Martini
1. Brew the espresso
2. Chill the glass
3. Mix the ingredients
4. Shake vigorously
5. Strain and serve
6. Garnish (optional)
Why We Love Espresso Martinis
This cocktail offers a delightful blend of two beloved indulgences – coffee and cocktails. The marriage of espresso and alcohol creates a unique flavour profile that combines the boldness of coffee with the sophistication of a cocktail. The caffeine kick from the espresso paired with the smoothness of the vodka offers an invigorating experience, making it an ideal choice for evening outings or after-dinner enjoyment.
On the other hand, the espresso martini is a standout addition to the cocktail menu for retailers. It caters to a diverse audience, appealing to coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts alike. This sophisticated drink option adds a touch of elegance and offers a distinctive alternative to traditional cocktails.
The espresso martini's versatility allows for creative variations, encouraging repeat visits as customers explore different flavour combination.