The iced latte is a refreshing, smooth, and creamy coffee drink that blends bold espresso with cold milk and ice. Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and chilled, an iced latte is espresso-based, making it richer, smoother, and slightly bolder in flavor.
Perfect for warm days—or whenever you crave a chilled, silky coffee experience—the iced latte is a versatile favorite, easily customized with flavored syrups, alternative milks, or even a touch of whipped cream.
What Makes an Iced Latte Different?
🔹 Espresso-Based, Not Drip Coffee – Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed and chilled, an iced latte is made with freshly pulled espresso, giving it a stronger, more balanced flavor.
🔹 Milk is Cold, Not Steamed – A traditional latte uses steamed milk, but an iced latte blends espresso with cold milk, creating a smoother, silkier texture.
🔹 Customizable & Versatile – The iced latte is the perfect base for flavored syrups, sweeteners, or milk alternatives, making it one of the most adaptable coffee drinks.
How to Make an Iced Latte
☕ Ingredients
- 2 tbsp (10g) finely ground coffee
- 6 oz (180ml) cold, filtered water (for brewing espresso)
- 6–8 oz (180–240ml) cold milk
- Ice cubes
🌡 Temperature Guide
- Brew water: 195–205°F (90–96°C)
- Milk: Chilled, straight from the fridge
Step-by-Step Brewing Guide
1️⃣ Brew a Double Shot of Espresso
Use an espresso machine to extract 2 oz of espresso. (If you don't have a machine, you can use a Moka pot or French press, which will produce a concentrated coffee similar to genuine espresso.)
2️⃣ Fill a Glass with Ice
Grab a 12- to 16-ounce glass or cup and fill it with ice cubes.
3️⃣ Add Cold Milk & Stir
Pour 6 to 8 ounces of your favorite milk over the espresso and ice. Grab a spoon or straw and give it a good stir.
4️⃣ Customize & Enjoy
Drink it as-is, or add your favorite syrup with a sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa on top. To make it more dessert-like, top it off with a dollop of whipped cream.
Shake Things Up: Iced Shaken Espresso
Once you become an expert at making your own iced lattes, you can try another summer favorite: shaken espresso! (This video on Instagram shows you the quickest way to make one.)
It's almost the same as making an iced latte, but instead of stirring, you add a lid and shake it vigorously. It's light and frothy, and perfect for hot, sunny days!
Iced Latte vs. Other Cold Coffee Drinks
✔ Iced Latte vs. Iced Coffee: An iced latte is espresso + cold milk, while iced coffee is brewed coffee poured over ice.
✔ Iced Latte vs. Iced Cappuccino: An iced cappuccino has more foam and a stronger espresso presence, while an iced latte is creamier and milkier.
✔ Iced Latte vs. Iced Americano: An iced Americano is espresso diluted with cold water, while an iced latte is espresso mixed with cold milk.
Why Choose an Iced Latte?
- For a Smooth & Refreshing Espresso Drink – The iced latte is creamy, balanced, and incredibly easy to drink.
- A Versatile Coffee Base – Whether you prefer classic, flavored, or dairy-free, the iced latte is highly customizable.
- Perfect for Warmer Days – When you need a cool, caffeinated boost, an iced latte is the perfect blend of espresso strength and chilled refreshment.
☕ Next Up: Iced Americano – A Crisp, Bold Espresso Refreshment
