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Easy Homemade Iced Coffee (Better Than Starbucks)

Prep Time 5 minutes
Total Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1 large glass (easily doubled)
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • cup strong brewed coffee, cooled slightly (or 2 shots espresso)
  • 1 to 2 cups ice cubes
  • 1/2 cup cold milk of your choice
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons sugar, simple syrup, or sweetener of choice
  • 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Equipment

  • Coffee maker (drip, French press, or espresso machine)
  • tall glass
  • spoon

Method
 

  1. Brew 1 cup of coffee using twice your usual amount of grounds. Cool slightly for 2–3 minutes (or chill in the fridge if making ahead).
  2. Fill a tall glass completely to the top with ice.
  3. Pour the coffee over the ice, leaving about 1 inch at the top.
  4. Add the milk, sweetener, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir well.
  5. Taste and adjust sweetness, then serve immediately.

Notes

For the smoothest sweetness, use simple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
 
Brewed coffee keeps in the fridge for up to 1 week — perfect for quick morning assembly.