We’ve all craved that perfect iced coffee on a hot day, and our take on the International Delight Iced Coffee Recipe delivers just that. Drawing from the creamy flavors of International Delight creamers, this homemade version brings a touch of indulgence to your kitchen without the coffee shop price tag.
It’s not just about the chill—it’s about crafting a drink that’s customizable and oh-so-refreshing. We’ll show you how simple ingredients turn into a go-to favorite that elevates your daily routine. Let’s dive into this easy brew that’s sure to become our shared secret for beating the heat.
Ingredients
In our homemade International Delight Iced Coffee Recipe, we focus on simple, high-quality ingredients that deliver that creamy, refreshing coffee shop vibe right at home. Let’s break down what you’ll need, ordered by how we use them in preparation for the smoothest blend.
Core Ingredients
- Strong brewed coffee: 2 cups, freshly brewed and cooled—we recommend using a medium roast for its balanced bold flavor that forms the base of our iced coffee.
- International Delight creamer: ½ cup of your preferred flavor (such as vanilla or caramel)—this is the star ingredient that adds rich, creamy sweetness to enhance the coffee’s aroma and texture.
- Milk or milk alternative: 1 cup, chilled (whole milk for extra creaminess or almond milk for a lighter option)—we add this next to achieve the perfect silky consistency.
- Ice cubes: 1 to 2 cups, depending on your desired chill—we use these last to keep the drink crisp and invigorating without diluting the flavors too quickly.
Optional Add-Ins for Customization
- Sweetener: 2 tablespoons of sugar, honey, or simple syrup—to taste, stirred in early for even distribution and a subtle sweetness that complements the creamer.
- Flavor extracts: ½ teaspoon of vanilla or hazelnut extract—if you’re experimenting, this boosts the aromatic depth we love in our daily brew.
- Whipped cream: ¼ cup, for topping—add this for a decadent, frothy finish that makes your iced coffee feel indulgent.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Strong brewed coffee | 2 cups | Freshly brewed and cooled |
| International Delight creamer | ½ cup | Choose your favorite flavor |
| Milk or milk alternative | 1 cup | Chilled for optimal creaminess |
| Ice cubes | 1 to 2 cups | Adjust based on glass size |
| Sweetener | 2 tablespoons | To taste for personalized sweetness |
| Flavor extracts | ½ teaspoon | Optional for added depth |
| Whipped cream | ¼ cup | Optional for topping |
Equipment Needed
To brew and serve our refreshing International Delight Iced Coffee at home, we rely on a few simple tools that make the process efficient and enjoyable. These essentials ensure precise preparation and a smooth, creamy result every time.
Basic Kitchen Tools
- Coffee Brewer: A standard coffee maker, French press, or pour-over setup to brew strong coffee—we suggest one that holds at least 4 cups for easy batch preparation.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurate measurements, such as 1 cup of brewed coffee and 2 tablespoons of creamer, to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
- Tall Glasses or Mugs: Heat-resistant options that hold 12-16 ounces, ideal for layering ice and ingredients without overflow.
- Stirring Spoon or Long Straw: A sturdy spoon for mixing everything thoroughly, ensuring the creamer blends seamlessly into the coffee for that signature creamy texture.
- Ice Cube Tray: Standard size to prepare fresh ice cubes, which keep our drink chilled and refreshing without diluting the flavors quickly.
Instructions
We walk you through the straightforward steps to craft our delicious International Delight Iced Coffee at home, building on the ingredients and tools we’ve already outlined for a smooth, creamy result.
Prepare the Ingredients
First, gather and measure the core components to ensure precision in flavor. Start by brewing a strong base—measure 2 cups of coarsely ground coffee beans for a 4-cup batch, as this yields the robust foundation needed for our iced coffee. Next, pour 1 cup of International Delight creamer (we recommend flavors like French Vanilla or Caramel for that signature creamy twist) into a measuring cup, and add 1 cup of milk or a milk alternative such as almond or oat milk for a lighter texture. If customizing, set aside optional add-ins like 1 tablespoon of sweetener (e.g., sugar or honey) or ½ teaspoon of flavor extracts (like vanilla or hazelnut) to enhance the taste. Finally, prepare a tray of ice cubes from filtered water, aiming for about 2 cups to keep the drink refreshingly chilled without diluting it too quickly.
Brew and Cool the Coffee
Begin by brewing your coffee using your preferred method, such as a standard coffee maker or French press, to extract maximum flavor. Add the 2 cups of ground coffee to your brewer and pour 4 cups of hot water over it, allowing it to steep for 4-5 minutes for a strong, aromatic brew that forms the heart of our International Delight Iced Coffee. Once brewed, quickly transfer the hot coffee to a heat-resistant pitcher or bowl—this should yield about 4 cups of liquid. To cool it rapidly, stir in a few ice cubes or place the container in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes until it reaches room temperature, preserving the coffee’s rich, bold aroma and preventing it from becoming watered down when mixed.
Mix the Iced Coffee
Combine the elements for a velvety blend that highlights the creamy essence of International Delight. In a tall glass, pour 1 cup of the cooled brewed coffee as the base, then add ½ cup of the measured International Delight creamer and ½ cup of milk for that indulgent, smooth texture that coats your palate with subtle sweetness. If using add-ins, incorporate the sweetener or extracts now and stir vigorously with a long spoon for 30 seconds until fully dissolved, creating a refreshing, chilled mixture that evokes the cool, creamy delight of a coffee shop favorite. The result is a invigorating drink with a silky mouthfeel and enticing aroma, perfect for personalization.
Serve and Enjoy
To finish, fill your glass with 1 cup of ice cubes to maintain that crisp, cold temperature, then gently stir once more to distribute the flavors evenly. Pour the mixed iced coffee over the ice into serving glasses, and for an extra touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream if desired, which adds a light, airy contrast to the creamy base. Serve immediately to savor the refreshing chill and rich coffee notes that make our International Delight Iced Coffee a go-to for beating the heat, ensuring each sip is as enjoyable and customizable as possible.
Make-Ahead Instructions
To streamline our morning routine and ensure a refreshing International Delight Iced Coffee is always ready, we can prepare key components in advance. This approach keeps the creamy flavors of International Delight creamer intact while saving time on busy days.
Preparing the Coffee Base
We start by brewing a larger batch of strong coffee ahead of time for easy customization. Here’s how we do it step by step:
- Brew the coffee: Use 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee beans for every 4 cups of water in our coffee maker or French press. Brew as usual, then let it cool completely to room temperature to preserve its rich, bold aroma.
- Cool and store: Once cooled, transfer the brewed coffee to an airtight container or pitcher. We recommend chilling it in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results, to enhance its smooth texture.
Mixing the Creamer Blend
For a head start on that velvety finish, we can pre-mix the creamer and other base ingredients:
- Combine essentials: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 cup of International Delight creamer with 1 cup of milk or a milk alternative. Add any optional sweeteners, such as 2 tablespoons of sugar or honey, and stir until fully dissolved.
- Refrigerate the mixture: Pour the blended creamer into a sealed jar or bottle and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld, creating a creamy, indulgent base that’s ready to pour.
Storage and Serving Tips
To maintain freshness and quality, we follow these guidelines:
- Proper storage: Keep all pre-prepared elements in the refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below. For instance, if we’re making ice cubes from coffee or water, use an ice cube tray and freeze for up to 1 week to avoid dilution.
- Assemble when ready: When it’s time to serve, simply mix the cooled coffee with the creamer blend over ice. We add about 1 cup of ice per serving to keep it refreshingly cold without watering it down.
By planning ahead, we ensure our International Delight Iced Coffee stays convenient and delicious, perfect for hot days or quick pick-me-ups.
Conclusion
We’ve shared how our homemade International Delight Iced Coffee can transform your daily brew into something truly special. It’s a versatile treat that fits seamlessly into busy lives, offering endless customization for a personalized pick-me-up.
We’re excited for you to try it and make it your go-to refreshment, proving that great coffee doesn’t need a cafe visit. Enjoy the creamy goodness and let it elevate your routine!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the International Delight Iced Coffee Recipe?
This homemade recipe is a refreshing, creamy iced coffee inspired by International Delight creamers. It’s a cost-effective alternative to coffee shop drinks, perfect for hot days. You brew strong coffee, mix it with creamer, milk, and ice for a customizable, velvety treat that enhances your daily routine.
What ingredients are needed for this iced coffee?
The core ingredients include strong brewed coffee, International Delight creamer, milk or a milk alternative, and ice cubes. Optional add-ins like sweeteners, flavor extracts, or whipped cream allow for personalization. All are chosen for a smooth, creamy texture that’s easy to prepare at home.
What equipment do I need to make this recipe?
You’ll need a coffee brewer (like a coffee maker, French press, or pour-over), measuring cups and spoons, tall heat-resistant glasses or mugs, a stirring spoon or long straw, and an ice cube tray. These tools ensure efficient brewing and a consistently smooth result for your iced coffee.
How do I prepare the International Delight Iced Coffee?
Start by brewing strong coffee and letting it cool. Measure and mix in International Delight creamer, milk, and any custom add-ins for a velvety texture. Pour over ice in a glass and stir well. Serve immediately for a refreshing drink that takes just minutes to make.
Can I customize this iced coffee recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Add sweeteners, flavor extracts, or whipped cream to tailor the taste. Experiment with different International Delight creamer flavors or milk alternatives to suit your preferences, making it a versatile option for personalizing your homemade iced coffee.
How can I make this iced coffee in advance?
Brew a larger batch of strong coffee and cool it, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. You can also pre-mix the creamer and milk with sweeteners if desired. When ready, simply combine with ice for a quick, refreshing drink.
Is this recipe more cost-effective than buying from coffee shops?
Yes, it’s a budget-friendly option. Using simple ingredients like International Delight creamer and home-brewed coffee cuts costs compared to coffee shop purchases. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can make multiple servings at home for pennies on the dollar.