How To Make A Perfect Glass of Iced Coffee

Perfect Iced Coffee

Now that the Summer heat is finally here there is nothing better than a delicious glass of iced coffee.....unless of course I'm having a cocktail, but that's a different post!

The perfect glass of iced coffee is really rather simple to make, but it does require three distinct elements.

The secret to a perfect glass of iced coffee in second part of post...

Cold Brewed, Coffee Ice Cubes, and Simple Syrup

These three elements make the perfect glass of iced coffee because each element adds something to the flavor of the coffee.

Cold Brewing

Cold brewing the coffee in a french press releases a complex network of flavors that otherwise would be ruined by hot brewing the beans

Coffee Ice Cubes

Coffee ice cubes prevent the drink from watering down as the ice melts, ensuring that your drink stays potent and cold.

Simple Syrup

And finally, simple syrup ensures that the sugar dissolves into the coffee. There is nothing worse than sugar granules that don't dissolve and sink to the bottom of the glass.

It really is that simple!

Cold-Brewed Iced Coffee

(adapted from the NY Times)

1/3 cup ground coffee (medium-coarse grind is best)
1 1/2 cups water

In a french press, stir together coffee and 1 1/2 cups water. Cover and let rest at room temperature overnight or 12 hours.

Push french press plunger down to strain. In a tall glass filled with ice, mix equal parts coffee concentrate and water, or to taste.

Cold Brewed Iced Coffee

Cold Brewed Coffee

I tried this recipe last summer and totally fell in love with it. Cold brewing the coffee gives it rich chocolate flavors that are tinged with notes of cherry. I'd been thinking about making some when I ran into a post over at The Bitten Word, and when reading the comments section I learned a great new trick!

The original recipe calls for brewing the coffee in a jar overnight and then straining it into a cup. I always hated the straining part, and apparently so did the commenter because his suggestion was to brew the coffee in a FRENCH PRESS! That way there is no need to strain! I mean, how brilliant is that suggestion?!

Cold-Brewed Iced Coffee(adapted from the NY Times)

1/3 cup ground coffee (medium-coarse grind is best)
1 1/2 cups water

In a french press, stir together coffee and 1 1/2 cups water. Cover and let rest at room temperature overnight or 12 hours.

Push french press plunger down to strain. In a tall glass filled with ice, mix equal parts coffee concentrate and water, or to taste.

Makes two drinks