The summer sun brings a craving for cool, refreshing beverages. Why not ditch the sugary sodas and processed juices this summer and instead go for iced coffee? Yes, iced coffee can be your healthy and delicious go-to drink this season. Beyond its ability to quench your thirst, iced coffee offers a surprising range of health benefits and can even give your energy levels a welcome boost.
The Buzz on Benefits
The magic ingredient in iced coffee, caffeine, is a well-known stimulant that can sharpen your focus and alertness. Studies suggest caffeine can improve cognitive function, memory, and reaction time. This makes iced coffee a perfect pick-me-up in the afternoon slump or a helpful beverage to jumpstart your day.
But the benefits go beyond a quick energy boost. Coffee is rich in antioxidants, which can help protect your cells from damage and may even reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases. Iced coffee can also aid in weight management as caffeine can increase your metabolism, helping your body burn calories more efficiently.
Iced Coffee Creations for Every Palate
While a classic cold brew is always satisfying, there’s a world of delicious iced coffee variations to explore. Here are a few ideas to tantalize your taste buds and keep you cool this summer:
Cafe Frappe: This Greek favorite is a thick and creamy concoction made with instant coffee, milk, ice, and sugar. For a richer flavor, use strong brewed coffee or cold brew concentrate.
Mocha Frappe: Chocolate lovers will adore this variation. Add a tablespoon of chocolate syrup or cocoa powder to your cafe frappe base for a decadent treat.
Sea Salt Mocha: For a more complex flavor profile, try a sea salt mocha. A sprinkle of sea salt on top of your mocha frappe enhances the chocolate’s richness and adds a touch of sweet and salty contrast.
Fruity and Floral Delights: If you’re looking for a lighter option, iced coffee can be a delightful base for fruity and floral beverages. To make Berry Cafe Latte, muddle fresh berries like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries in your cup before pouring over iced coffee and milk. Top with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat. Or, go for the Rose and Almond Latte, instead. This unique latte combines the floral fragrance of rosewater with the nutty richness of almonds. Use regular milk with flavours and residues of almond or almond milk as per your liking. Add a touch of honey for sweetness and a sprinkle of rose petals for a touch of elegance.
Iced Coffee with a Twist: To prepare a different iced coffee concoction, make yourself a cuppa Pistachio Latte. Here, the subtle nuttiness of pistachio pairs surprisingly well with coffee. Blend pistachio paste with milk and ice, then pour over your iced coffee for a delightful surprise. Another must-try drink is Coffee Tonic with Elderflower Goodness. For a refreshing and bubbly beverage, combine cold brew coffee with chilled tonic water. Elderflower liqueur adds a touch of floral sweetness to the drink.
Forget soda drinks and indulge in the energizing and delicious world of iced coffee this summer. With its surprising health benefits and endless flavor possibilities, iced coffee is the perfect way to keep cool, stay focused, and enjoy the warm weather.
The author Ms Devanshi Tripathi is the Founder of North Star café.