Chill Out with Coffee Ice Cubes: A Twist on Your Iced Coffee

Ever found your iced coffee tasting a bit lackluster? It’s likely due to the water-based ice cubes that dilute your precious liquid gold. But fear not, coffee lovers! There’s a secret weapon to elevate your caffeinated favorites: coffee ice cubes.

These frozen blocks of coffee aren’t just a visual treat; they’re a game-changer for your iced coffee drinks. By replacing ordinary ice with coffee ice, you’ll enjoy a cold and flavor-packed sip from start to finish. No more watering down your delectable cubes of coffee!

Coffee ice cubes are incredibly versatile. You can use them in your favorite cold brew coffee, or even add them to a creamy iced latte for a sweetness boost without the need for sugar. The possibilities are endless, making coffee ice cubes a must-have for any coffee lover.

Coffee Ice Cubes

These little champs are more than just frozen coffee. They’re caffeine-powered ice cubes that add a frosty twist to your iced coffee. Unlike regular ice cubes, they’re all about flavor preservation, ensuring every sip is as blissful and delicious as the first. I remember the dreamy moment I first tried them. As the ice melts, instead of turning watery and sad, your drink stays bold and aromatic.

I’ve made it a habit to brew an extra cup of my favorite coffee each morning. After letting it cool, I pour that irresistible liquid into an ice cube tray and freeze. It’s that simple. The result? Pure coffee magic in bite-sized cubes.

When it’s time for my afternoon pick-me-up, I fill a glass with these cubes and pour over some coffee. The drink stays ice-cold without losing its coffee vibe. It’s like having a cool buddy that keeps your iced coffee in a state of perfection, never watering it down or making a mess. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed iced coffee any other way.

What do they taste like? 

As I take a sip of my favorite drink with these frosty buddies, I’m always floored by the rich, robust taste. It’s like coffee, but colder than a penguin’s picnic. As they melt, they release a smooth, coffee-infused goodness that’s cooler than the coolest cat at a jazz concert.

The best part? They don’t dilute your beverage one tiny bit. Instead, each drop is a burst of pure coffee bliss. It’s magic, and the taste is as customizable as your coffee-loving heart desires. Craving a twist? Add some vanilla or cinnamon dolce syrup before freezing. Feeling wild? Throw in some orange peel for a zesty surprise.

These coffee ice cubes are a java lover’s dream come true. They’re the delicious secret to a perfectly caffeinated libation. Each frosty masterpiece turns your ordinary iced coffee into an adventure. As these flavor-packed cubes take your tastebuds for a ride, you’ll want to thank them with a standing ovation. Trust me, once you try this coffee alchemy, you’ll never look back.

What is so great about homemade coffee ice cubes?

No one likes a watered down iced coffee or latte. The best way to enjoy your coffee is with ice cubes made from brewed coffee. Whether you prefer instant coffee, cold brew, or any other popular choice, making your own coffee ice cubes recipeis a quick and easy way to elevate your favorite brew. Simply pour your brewed coffee into an ice mold and freeze it until solid. It’s a 1 ingredient wonder that even the most coffee-loving people will love.

Customizable coffee ice cubes are a great way to transform your leftover coffee drinks into deliciously useable treats for the future. You only need one ingredient to make coffee ice cubes, so you can add whatever you like to them.

Coffee ice cubes are incredibly versatile. You can use freshly brewed hot coffee that’s too hot to burn your tongue and freeze it into ice cubes. Or, you can add them to a glass of milk for a reverse-latte vibe. They’re even great for adding a coffee kick to your smoothies or favorite cocktails.

You can also use your favorite milk to make coffee ice cubes. Whether you prefer whole milk, almond milk, oat milk, or whatever tickles your fancy, you can customize your coffee ice cubes to your liking.

Finally, if you like your coffee sweetened, you can add white sugar, brown sugar, coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup to your coffee before freezing it into ice cubes. This way, your iced coffee will be sweet and delicious without adding any extra sugar to your drink.

READ: Easy Homemade Coffee Creamer

Tools Needed

To make frozen coffee cubes, you’ll need a few simple tools:

• Iced cube trays: These can be made of silicon or plastic.
• Mug: For brewing your coffee.
• Coffee press: If you’re using ground coffee to brew your coffee.

What You Will Need to Make Frozen Coffee Cubes

1. Coffee: You can use instant coffee, espresso, or ground coffee. The choice is yours!
2. Water: Use hot water when using instant coffee or brewing ground coffee. If you prefer filtered water or cold brew, you can use those as well.
3. Sweetener: A sweetener is optional. If you follow this recipe and prefer a no sugar coffee experience, you can skip the sweetener. However, if you like your coffee cubes to be sweetened, you can use homemade vanilla syrup or a sweetener that dissolves well in iced beverages.

How to Make Coffee Ice Cubes

1. Take your ice cube tray and place it in the freezer. Deep clean the ice cube tray with dish soap. Many people do not wash their ice cube trays regularly. It’s a habit to clean your ice cube trays before making coffee ice cubes.
2. Brew your coffee using a coffee press or your preferred method. Let it cool.
3. Once your coffee is at room temperature, pour it evenly into the ice cube tray. Place the ice cube tray in the freezer.
4. After your coffee is frozen in the ice cube tray, fill a glass with coffee cubes.
5. Top the glass with hot coffee.
6. Add cream and sweetener to your coffee as desired.

Why Should I Use Coffee Ice Cubes? 

Coffee ice cubes are a game-changer, and I’ll tell you why. They keep coffee strong and don’t dilute flavor like regular ice cubes that rapidly melt. I remember the first time I used them – it was a hot summer day, and I was tired of my iced coffee turning into a watery disappointment.

The benefit of filling your glass with coffee ice cubes is undeniable. It’s become my favorite twist on iced coffee, making each sip rich and full-bodied from start to finish. Trust me, once you try this method, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed iced coffee without it.

READ: Iced Lavender Cream Oatmilk Matcha

How Long Does It Take Coffee Ice Cubes to Freeze? 

To store coffee ice cubes, pop them in the freezer, and they’re usually ready in 3 to 4 hours. The exact time depends on the temperature of your freezer. I don’t recommend dragging yourself out of bed at 5 a.m. to brew and freeze coffee ice cubes – I’ve tried, and it’s not fun.

Instead, use the remaining lukewarm coffee from the morning batch to make a new set. Pour it into trays and let it freeze overnight, so they’re perfect for the next day.

How Long Do Coffee Ice Cubes Last in the Freezer? 

Frozen coffee ice cubes stay usable for about two weeks after you first freeze them. Over time, these ice cubes start to sublimate in the freezer. Sublimation is like evaporation, but instead of liquid turning to gas, it’s solid straight to gas. So, your delicious coffee ice cubes slowly turn into gas.

I’ve found that storing coffee ice cubes in a sealed Ziploc bag makes them last longer. This storage method helps prevent other tastes and aromas from working their way into your coffee ice cubes. It’s especially helpful if you store things like pounds of frozen tilapia in your freezer. 

Why Do Ice Cubes Evaporate in the Freezer? 

Coffee ice cubes don’t actually evaporate, they sublimate. You don’t need a PhD in chemistry to understand the basics. Ice shouldn’t change form in conditions below freezing, but the environment in your freezer is affected when you open the freezer door. The real culprit is dry air.

Frost-free freezers have a heating cycle that’s automatically triggered occasionally to remove ice from cooling surfaces. This causes coffee ice cubes to sublimate into vapor faster. The warmer air in the freezer speeds up this process.

It’s not a big issue, though. I’ve kept coffee ice cubes in a tray for months and still used them for a scrumptious, rich morning iced coffee. I just incorporate them when I’m feeling like it, rather than waiting until they’re empty at the two-week mark.

READ: Iced Gingerbread Oat Milk Chai Tea Latte

Can I Freeze Cold Brew Coffee?

Yes, you can freeze cold brew coffee. Since cold brew coffee is less acidic and has a smoother flavor, cold-brew coffee ice cubes are less likely to negatively affect the dairy products you add to your iced coffee. This is great news for cream and milk diehards.

Recipe Success Tips

1. Run ice trays under warm water to release from the tray. A silicone ice tray allows iced cubes to pop out easily without restraints.
2. Use quality coffee you genuinely enjoy.
3. Proportions matter. For strong coffee-flavored ice, use full-strength coffee. For milder coffee flavor, dilute with water or add a splash of milk or creamer. Sweeten to liking.
4. Get creative with sweeteners, sugar, syrups, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in your coffee before freezing for extra flavor.
5. Label different flavored cubes or coffee varieties on trays or storage containers for easy grabbing.
6. For proper storage once frozen, transfer coffee cubes to an airtight container or resealable freezer bag to prevent absorbing freezer odors.
7. Make plenty of coffee ice cubes at once so you don’t run out mid-summer when craving.

How to Store Coffee Ice Cubes

Do not refreeze thawed coffee ice cubes. Once frozen, coffee ice cubes are meant to be used immediately. If you store thawed coffee ice cubes in the freezer, they won’t be suitable for use in your iced coffee.

However, you can store unused coffee ice cubes in a Ziploc bag for up to 1 month. This will help preserve their freshness and prevent them from absorbing any unwanted flavors

Conclusion

Coffee ice cubes are a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy your favorite caffeinated beverage. They’re easy to make, customizable, and can be enjoyed in various ways. So, next time you’re craving a cold cup of coffee, give coffee ice cubes a try and experience the difference they make.

FAQs About Coffee Ice Cubes

Can I use instant coffee to make coffee ice cubes?

Absolutely! Instant coffee is a great option for making coffee ice cubes. Just follow the same steps as you would with ground coffee.

How long do coffee ice cubes last in the freezer?

Coffee ice cubes can last in the freezer for up to two weeks. However, it’s best to use them within that time to maintain their optimal flavor and texture.

Can I add milk or cream to the coffee before freezing it?

Yes, you can add milk or cream to the coffee before freezing it. This will create a creamy and indulgent ice cube.

Can I add flavorings like vanilla or caramel to the coffee ice cubes?

Absolutely! Adding flavorings like vanilla or caramel can give your coffee ice cubes a delicious twist.

Are coffee ice cubes a good way to reduce caffeine intake?

While coffee ice cubes can help you enjoy the flavor of coffee without consuming as much liquid, they still contain caffeine. If you’re looking to reduce your caffeine intake, consider using less coffee or opting for decaf coffee.

Can I use coffee ice cubes in other drinks besides iced coffee?

Yes, you can! Coffee ice cubes can add a unique flavor and cooling element to smoothies, milkshakes, and even cocktails.

Can I freeze leftover iced coffee into ice cubes?

Yes, you can! This is a great way to use up leftover iced coffee and enjoy it later.

Coffee Ice Cubes

Recipe by Raise Your GlassCourse: Coffee Beverages

Servings

2

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Calories

18

kcal

Freezing Time

240

minutes

Total time

4

hours 

5

minutes

Coffee ice cubes are a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy your favorite caffeinated beverage. They’re easy to make, customizable, and can be enjoyed in various ways.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoon instant coffee (instant coffee espresso or ground coffee of your choice)

Directions

• Take your ice cube tray and place it in the freezer. Deep clean the ice cube tray with dish soap. Many people do not wash their ice cube trays regularly. It’s a habit to clean your ice cube trays before making coffee ice cubes.
• Brew your coffee using a coffee press or your preferred method. Let it cool.
• Once your coffee is at room temperature, pour it evenly into the ice cube tray. Place the ice cube tray in the freezer.
• After your coffee is frozen in the ice cube tray, fill a glass with coffee cubes.
• Top the glass with hot coffee.
• Add cream and sweetener to your coffee as desired.