Skip the long lines at the shop and make an iced coffee drink yourself.

Proper iced coffee is far from stale.

It should be refreshing, sweet (without added sugars), and slightly less acidic than hot coffee.

Southern Living How to Make Iced Coffee at Home

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What’s the Difference Between Iced Coffee and Cold Brew?

While you may have heard these terms used interchangeably, iced coffee is not cold brew coffee.

The difference lies in the extraction process.

Southern Living How to Make Iced Coffee at home

Credit:Caitlin Bensel; Food Stylist: Torie Cox

One isnt necessarily better than the other, but it comes down to personal preference and time.

One drawback to this method is that the more ice added, the more diluted the coffee becomes.

A simple remedy is to brew coffee with double the amount of grounds.

Southern Living Iced Coffee at Home cold brew method

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Add the cubes to your iced coffee or drinks that need a caffeinated boost.

This process works well with other methods, especially pour-over coffee devices like the Chemex.

An espresso maker or K-cup is another easy way to try this style of iced coffee.

Southern Living Iced Coffee at Home pouring coffee over ice

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Cold brew is slightly more caffeinated than iced coffee.

It’s also favored for its creamy texture and naturally sweet flavor, which comes from the extraction method.

Delicious Drinks That Start With Iced Coffee

Iced coffee is just the beginning.

Southern Living Iced Coffee at home coffee in glasses to serve

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Here’s what to add to your iced coffee to make the drink even more delicious!

Pour brewed coffee over ice.

Add cream or sugar:

Add half and half and sugar, if using.

Stir until the coffee is cold.