Summer is the perfect time for iced coffee lovers to indulge in their favorite beverage. Whether you’re a coffee fanatic or just looking for a refreshing pick-me-up, iced coffee is the perfect treat for those hot summer days. But why settle for store-bought iced coffee when you can easily make your own at home? With the right equipment, you can enjoy a perfect cup of iced coffee whenever you want. In this article, we’ll explore the best iced coffee makers available in the market and help you find the perfect one for your needs.
Best Iced Coffee Maker: What to Look For
Before jumping into our top picks for the best iced coffee maker, let’s first discuss what features to look for when choosing the perfect one for you.
Iced Coffee vs. Cold Brew
First things first, it’s important to understand the difference between iced coffee and cold brew. While they may seem similar, they are made using different methods and result in different flavors. Iced coffee is simply hot brewed coffee that has been chilled and poured over ice. On the other hand, cold brew is made by steeping ground coffee in cold water for an extended period of time, resulting in a smoother and less acidic taste. So, if you prefer a stronger and bolder flavor, go for an iced coffee maker. But if you’re looking for a more mellow and less acidic drink, opt for a cold brew maker.
Brewing Capacity
Consider how many cups of iced coffee you’ll be making at once. If you’re the only coffee drinker in the house, a single-serve machine might be enough for you. But if you have a larger household or often entertain guests, opt for a machine with a larger brewing capacity.
Convenience
Some iced coffee makers are easier to use and clean than others. If you’re always in a rush, look for a machine that offers one-touch brewing and easy cleaning. On the other hand, if you enjoy the process of making iced coffee and don’t mind putting in a little extra effort, you can opt for a more manual machine.
Price
Of course, budget is also an important factor to consider when choosing the best iced coffee maker for you. While some machines may have all the latest features, they might come with a hefty price tag. Determine your budget beforehand and choose a machine that fits within your budget while still meeting your needs.
Best Iced Coffee: Our Top Picks
1. Keurig K-Elite Single Serve Coffee Maker
The Keurig K-Elite Single Serve Coffee Maker is perfect for those who want a quick and easy way to make iced coffee. It offers five cup sizes ranging from 4 to 12 ounces and has a strong brew option for a bolder flavor. The machine also has a built-in iced coffee setting for a perfectly chilled drink every time. Plus, it’s compatible with all K-cup pods, giving you a wide variety of flavor options.
Pros:
- Easy to use and clean
- Offers both hot and cold brewing options
- Large water reservoir for brewing multiple cups without refilling
- Compatible with K-cup pods for a wide variety of flavors
Cons:
- Single-serve only, not ideal for larger households or entertaining guests
- Requires additional purchase of K-cups
- Some users have found it to be noisy
2. Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System
Looking for a machine that can do it all? The Ninja Hot and Cold Brewed System not only makes delicious iced coffee but also offers the option to make hot coffee, tea, or even cold brew. It has five brewing styles, including classic, rich, over ice, cold brew, and specialty. The machine also has a built-in milk frother for those who enjoy lattes or cappuccinos.
Pros:
- Multiple brewing options for hot and cold beverages
- Built-in milk frother
- Easy to use and clean
- Large capacity for brewing multiple cups at once
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Some users have experienced leakages
- Takes up more space on the counter compared to other machines
3. Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
For those who prefer the smooth and less acidic taste of cold brew, the Takeya Deluxe Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker is a great choice. The BPA-free pitcher is made with a fine-mesh filter that ensures a perfectly brewed batch every time. Simply add your desired amount of ground coffee and water, let it steep overnight, and in the morning, you’ll have a delicious and refreshing iced coffee ready to go.
Pros:
- Simple and easy to use
- Offers a smoother and less acidic taste compared to traditional iced coffee
- Can make large batches of cold brew at once
- Affordable price
Cons:
- Requires planning ahead as cold brew needs to steep overnight
- Only suitable for cold brew, cannot make hot coffee or tea
- Some users have experienced difficulty cleaning the filter
Best Coffee for Iced Coffee: Our Top Picks
While the right equipment is essential for making a perfect cup of iced coffee, choosing the right coffee beans is just as important. Here are our top picks for the best coffee to use for iced coffee.
1. Starbucks Blonde Roast Iced Coffee Blend
If you’re a fan of Starbucks’ iced coffee, you can now recreate their famous drink at home with their Blonde Roast Iced Coffee Blend. This smooth and medium-bodied roast is specially crafted for cold brewing, resulting in a balanced and refreshing iced coffee.
2. Death Wish Coffee
For those who prefer a stronger and bolder flavor, Death Wish Coffee is the perfect choice for iced coffee. This dark roast has double the caffeine content of regular coffee and is specifically designed to withstand the dilution from ice, resulting in a rich and flavorful iced coffee.
3. Kicking Horse Coffee Decaf Swiss Water Process
For decaf drinkers, the Kicking Horse Coffee Decaf Swiss Water Process is a great option for iced coffee. Made with 100% organic and fair trade Arabica beans, this medium roast offers a smooth and slightly sweet taste, perfect for an afternoon iced coffee break.
Best Iced Coffee Near Me: How to Find the Perfect Spot
If you’re not in the mood to make your own iced coffee at home, you can always find a local coffee shop or cafe that offers a delicious iced coffee. Here are a few ways to find the best iced coffee near you:
1. Ask Friends and Family
One of the best ways to find a good spot for iced coffee is by asking your friends and family. They may have a favorite cafe or know of a hidden gem in your area that serves the best iced coffee.
2. Use Social Media
Social media can be a great tool for finding the best iced coffee near you. Search for hashtags like
besticedcoffee,
icedcoffeelover, or simply
coffee and see which places pop up in your area.
3. Yelp or Google Reviews
Another way to find the best iced coffee near you is by checking online reviews on sites like Yelp or Google. Look for cafes or coffee shops with high ratings and read through reviews to get an idea of what drinks they offer and their overall atmosphere.
FAQs
What type of coffee is best for iced coffee?
The type of coffee you use for iced coffee depends on your personal preference. Some people prefer a lighter roast for a milder flavor, while others enjoy a darker roast for a bolder taste. Cold brew coffee is also a popular choice for iced coffee as it offers a smoother and less acidic taste.
Can I use regular hot brewed coffee for iced coffee?
Yes, you can use regular hot brewed coffee for iced coffee by simply chilling the coffee in the fridge or pouring it over ice. However, this method may result in a slightly diluted and less flavorful drink compared to using an iced coffee maker.
How do I make my own cold brew at home?
To make cold brew at home, simply add ground coffee and water to a pitcher or jar, and let it steep in the fridge overnight. In the morning, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh filter, and you’ll have a delicious batch of cold brew ready to enjoy.
Is cold brew stronger than regular brewed coffee?
Cold brew tends to have a higher caffeine content compared to regular brewed coffee as it has a longer steeping time. However, it also has a smoother and less acidic taste, making it a popular choice for iced coffee.
Can I add milk or cream to iced coffee?
Yes, you can definitely add milk or cream to iced coffee for a creamier and richer taste. You can also opt for non-dairy alternatives like almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
Conclusion
When it comes to iced coffee, the options are endless. Whether you prefer a quick and convenient single-serve machine or a more manual and versatile option, there’s an iced coffee maker out there for everyone. With the right equipment and coffee beans, you can easily make your own delicious iced coffee at home. And if you’re not in the mood to make it yourself, there are plenty of great spots near you that offer the perfect cup of iced coffee. So go ahead and indulge in your favorite summer drink, and beat the heat with a refreshing cup of iced coffee.