The Benefits of Iced Coffee

I like hot coffee better than iced coffee, but there are a few things about iced coffee that I must admit are pretty nice. I like that I can drink it out of a straw without burning myself or ingesting molten plastic, for example. But there are also more important benefits to iced coffee that sometimes get me reaching for my ice cube tray, even though hot coffee is my favorite way to make coffee.

In this article, I’m going to take you on a quick jaunt through my take on the benefits of iced coffee. Keep in mind that these are my opinions and that I’m not an iced coffee lover. I’ll try not to ruffle your feathers if you’re an iced coffee aficionado.

1. Iced Coffee is Convenient

I know this sounds like a lame benefit, but it’s the thing I like the best about iced coffee. Anyone who’s spilled hot coffee on themselves in the car can appreciate how nice it is to just get wet if you spill your coffee rather than suffer third-degree burns.

It’s also nice to be able to use a straw to drink your coffee. Having a straw and a lid makes it easier to drink coffee in the car, but it’s also nice to have when you’re walking since it prevents coffee from sloshing over the side of your cup.

Iced coffee doesn’t warm up as fast as hot coffee cools down, so it doesn’t stray into that weird middle-temperature range as easily. That means you can leave it in your car while you run into the store or leave it at your desk unattended for a while without coming back to a tepid cup of disgusting coffee.

2. Lower Acidity

Cold brew coffee has significantly lower acidity than regular hot coffee, which makes it a great option for people who are sensitive to acidity. Not all iced coffee is cold brew, but most people enjoy cold brew over ice as iced coffee.

The reason cold brew coffee has less acidity is due to the extraction process. When you brew coffee with hot water, the heat accelerates the extraction of acids from the coffee grounds. These acids, including chlorogenic acid, citric acid, and quinic acid, contribute to the bright, fruity, and sometimes sour notes in coffee.

In contrast, when you steep coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period, typically 12-24 hours, the extraction process is much slower and gentler. This results in a lower concentration of acids in the final brew. Studies have shown that cold brew coffee can have up to 67% less acidity compared to hot brewed coffee.

The lower acidity of cold brew can make it easier on the stomach for those who experience acid reflux or other digestive issues when drinking regular coffee. It also contributes to a smoother, less bitter flavor profile that many people find appealing. You can read more about the science behind cold brew coffee in my article [link to your article about the science of cold brew coffee].

3. Iced Coffee is Refreshing

When the heat of the summer is at its peak, and it’s already 85 degrees at seven o’clock in the morning, iced coffee really hits the spot.

There’s something about the combination of cold, slightly bitter coffee and creamy, sweet milk or cream that just feels right on a sweltering day. It’s like a grown-up version of the ice cream treats we loved as kids, but with the added bonus of a caffeine boost.

Iced coffee can be a welcome change of pace from the usual steaming mug of joe. The refreshing chill of the drink can help cool you down and perk you up at the same time. It’s a great option for those days when you need your coffee fix but can’t bear the thought of sipping on something hot.

Plus, there are so many ways to customize your iced coffee to suit your taste preferences. You can add flavored syrups (more on that later), experiment with different types of milk or creamers, or even blend it with ice for a frozen frappe-style drink. The possibilities are endless, and the refreshing factor is always there.

4. You Can Make Iced Coffee in Batches

One of the great things about iced coffee is that you can make a big batch ahead of time and store it in the fridge for whenever you need a caffeine fix. Unlike hot coffee, which starts to taste stale and bitter after sitting around for a while, iced coffee can be made in advance without sacrificing flavor.

This is especially true if you’re making cold brew concentrate, which can last for up to two weeks in the fridge. Just mix up a batch on the weekend, and you’ll have delicious iced coffee ready to go every morning without any extra effort.

For cold brew concentrate, I always aim to use it up within 7-10 days for the best flavor. And always store your iced coffee in an airtight container in the fridge, not at room temperature. With proper storage, you can enjoy the convenience of ready-made iced coffee whenever the mood strikes.

5. Iced Coffee is Less Bitter Than Hot Coffee

If you find the bitterness of regular hot coffee a bit overwhelming, iced coffee might be a good alternative – especially if it’s made with cold brew.

As I mentioned earlier, the cold brewing process results in a lower concentration of certain acids and compounds that contribute to bitterness in coffee. One of these compounds is caffeine – cold brew actually has a slightly lower caffeine content than regular hot coffee.

But the real culprit behind the bitter taste is a group of compounds called phenylindanes. These compounds are formed during the roasting process, and the darker the roast, the more phenylindanes are present.

When you brew coffee with hot water, these phenylindanes are extracted more efficiently, resulting in a more bitter flavor. But with cold brewing, the extraction is much gentler and slower, so fewer of these bitter compounds end up in your cup.

The result is a smoother, more mellow flavor that many people find more approachable than regular hot coffee. Of course, the bitterness of coffee is a matter of personal taste – some people love that bold, robust flavor. But if you’re someone who finds it a bit much, cold brew iced coffee might be just the thing to convert you into a coffee lover.

6. Iced Coffee Works Well With Flavors and Syrups

If you like to mix things up with flavored coffee drinks, iced coffee is a great canvas for experimentation. While some flavors and syrups can work well in hot coffee, others can be a bit overpowering or clash with the natural taste of the coffee.

With iced coffee, however, the colder temperature and slightly diluted strength can make it more receptive to different flavors. The sweetness of flavored syrups can also help balance out any remaining bitterness in the coffee.

For example, flavors like vanilla, caramel, and hazelnut are classic pairings with iced coffee. The creamy, nutty, and sweet notes of these syrups complement the rich flavor of the coffee without overpowering it.

Fruity flavors like raspberry, coconut, or even lavender can also work well in iced coffee, especially if you’re using a lighter roast or a cold brew base. The bright, refreshing notes of these syrups can add a fun twist to your usual coffee routine.

One reason flavors may work better in iced coffee is that the colder temperature can actually dull our perception of sweetness. This means you may need a bit more syrup to get the desired flavor, but it also means the coffee taste won’t be completely drowned out.

Additionally, the ice in iced coffee can help dilute any overwhelming flavors, creating a more balanced and refreshing drink. So don’t be afraid to experiment with different syrups and flavor combinations in your iced coffee – you might just discover your new favorite drink!

7. Iced Coffee Looks Nice in a Glass

I started with a silly benefit, so I’ll finish with one as well. There’s no denying that iced coffee with a little bit of milk or cream swirling in a glass over some ice cubes just looks inviting. You can’t drink hot coffee out of a normal glass without risking cracks and breakage. While you can get a double-walled insulated glass mug for hot coffee, they’re expensive and you probably don’t already own one.

Plus, there’s just something aesthetically pleasing about the layers of coffee, ice, and cream in a clear glass. It’s like a little work of art that you get to enjoy with your eyes before you even take a sip.

And let’s be honest – in the age of Instagram and social media, the visual appeal of our food and drinks matters. Iced coffee is just inherently more photogenic than a regular mug of hot coffee. So if you’re looking to up your coffee game and impress your followers, iced coffee is the way to go.

Of course, the taste and quality of the coffee should always be the top priority. But there’s nothing wrong with appreciating the visual appeal of a well-crafted iced coffee drink. It’s just one more little perk to add to the list of benefits of iced coffee.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, while I personally prefer the comforting warmth and aroma of a hot cup of coffee, I can’t deny that iced coffee has some benefits. From its refreshing taste and lower acidity to its convenience and customization options, iced coffee has a lot to offer.

Whether you’re looking to mix up your coffee routine, beat the summer heat, or just enjoy a visually appealing drink, iced coffee is worth considering. And with the option to make it at home or grab it on the go, it’s a versatile choice for any coffee lover.

FAQs

Is iced coffee less acidic than hot coffee?

Yes, iced coffee, particularly cold brew, tends to have lower acidity than hot coffee due to the slower and gentler extraction process. This can make it easier on the stomach for those sensitive to acidity.

Can I make iced coffee at home?

Absolutely! You can make iced coffee at home by brewing regular coffee and pouring it over ice, or by making cold brew concentrate and diluting it with water or milk. Homemade iced coffee can be just as delicious as coffee shop versions.

How long does iced coffee stay fresh?

Iced coffee is best consumed within a day or two of brewing to ensure freshness and avoid bacterial growth. If you’re making cold brew concentrate, it can last up to two weeks in the fridge when stored properly in an airtight container.

Are there any health benefits to drinking iced coffee?

While the health benefits of coffee in general are well-documented, such as improved brain function and lower risk of certain diseases, there aren’t any specific health benefits unique to iced coffee. However, the lower acidity of cold brew may be easier on the digestive system for some people.

Can I customize the flavor of my iced coffee?

Yes, one of the great things about iced coffee is how easily customizable it is. You can add flavored syrups, experiment with different creamers or milks, or even blend it with ice and other ingredients for a frozen coffee drink. The possibilities are endless!