When the temperature soars and you’re craving something both refreshing and energizing, this iced lemon coffee recipe is your perfect solution.
Combining the bold richness of coffee with the bright, zesty kick of fresh lemon, this delightful beverage offers a unique twist that will awaken your senses and cool you down simultaneously.
This isn’t your ordinary iced coffee – the addition of lemon creates a surprisingly harmonious flavor profile that’s both invigorating and smooth. Whether you’re hosting a summer brunch, need an afternoon energy boost, or simply want to try something new, this recipe will quickly become your go-to refreshing drink.
Recipe Information
- Serves: 2 people
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 5 minutes (for brewing coffee)
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Category: Beverages, Cold Drinks, Summer Recipes
Why You’ll Love This Iced Lemon Coffee Recipe
The citrus doesn’t overpower the coffee – instead, it enhances the natural flavors while adding a bright, clean finish that’s incredibly refreshing.
The lemon cuts through the bitterness of the coffee beautifully, creating a drink that’s both sophisticated and surprisingly addictive.
You can adjust the lemon intensity to your preference, make it as sweet or as bold as you like, and it’s incredibly quick to prepare. Plus, it’s a fantastic conversation starter – guests are always intrigued by the unique flavor combination.
Equipment Needed
- Coffee maker (drip, French press, or espresso machine)
- Large pitcher or mixing bowl
- Tall glasses (12-16 oz capacity)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Citrus juicer (manual or electric)
- Fine-mesh strainer (optional, for removing pulp)
- Long spoon for stirring
- Ice cube trays
- Knife and cutting board (for lemon preparation)
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Iced Lemon Coffee Recipe
Ingredients
For the Coffee Base:
- 1 cup freshly brewed strong coffee (cooled)
- 1/2 cup cold water
For the Lemon Component:
- 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (about 1 large lemon)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 2-3 tablespoons sugar or sweetener of choice (adjust to taste)
For Serving:
- 2 cups ice cubes
- Lemon slices for garnish
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Coffee Base Brew 1 cup of strong coffee using your preferred method. If using a drip coffee maker, use about 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds per 6 oz of water for a stronger brew. Allow the coffee to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Create the Lemon Mixture While the coffee is cooling, wash and zest one large lemon, being careful to only remove the yellow outer layer (avoid the bitter white pith). Cut the lemon in half and juice it, straining out any seeds. You should have about 3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
- Combine and Sweeten In a large pitcher, combine the cooled coffee, cold water, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest. Add sugar or your preferred sweetener, starting with 2 tablespoons and adjusting to taste. Stir thoroughly until the sweetener completely dissolves.
- Chill and Serve Fill two tall glasses with ice cubes. Pour the lemon coffee mixture over the ice, dividing it evenly between the glasses. Stir gently to combine.
- Garnish and Enjoy Add a fresh lemon slice to each glass and a sprig of mint if desired. For an extra indulgent touch, top with a dollop of whipped cream. Serve immediately with a straw and long spoon.
Pro Tips for Perfect Iced Lemon Coffee
- Use quality coffee: Since coffee is the star ingredient, choose a medium to dark roast with good flavor notes
- Fresh lemon is key: Always use fresh lemon juice – bottled lemon juice won’t provide the same bright, clean taste
- Adjust sweetness gradually: Start with less sweetener and add more to taste, as the lemon’s acidity can affect how sweet the drink tastes
- Make coffee ice cubes: Freeze leftover coffee in ice cube trays to prevent dilution as the drink sits
- Experiment with ratios: Some prefer more lemon, others more coffee – find your perfect balance
Nutrition Information
Per serving (1 glass, based on 2 servings total)
Nutrient | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 45-65 |
Total Fat | 0g |
Saturated Fat | 0g |
Cholesterol | 0mg |
Sodium | 5mg |
Total Carbohydrates | 12-18g |
Dietary Fiber | 0g |
Sugars | 12-18g |
Protein | 1g |
Caffeine | 95-120mg |
Vitamin C | 15mg (25% DV) |
Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific ingredients used and serving sizes. Values assume 2 tablespoons of sugar per serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While you can use bottled lemon juice in a pinch, fresh lemon juice is highly recommended for the best flavor. Fresh juice provides a brighter, more vibrant taste that makes this drink truly special. The natural oils in fresh lemon zest also add an aromatic quality that bottled juice can’t replicate.
Is this recipe suitable for people watching their sugar intake?
Absolutely! You can easily modify this recipe by using sugar substitutes like stevia, monk fruit sweetener, or sugar-free syrups. You can also reduce the sweetener amount or omit it entirely if you prefer a more tart, less sweet beverage.
Can I make this into a hot drink?
While this recipe is designed for iced consumption, you can certainly enjoy it hot! Simply skip the cooling step and ice, and serve the lemon coffee mixture warm. Add the lemon juice after the coffee has cooled slightly to preserve the vitamin C and fresh lemon flavor.
Final Words
Ready to refresh your summer with this unique iced lemon coffee? This recipe proves that sometimes the most unexpected combinations create the most delightful surprises. Perfect for coffee lovers looking to expand their horizons and citrus enthusiasts seeking a caffeinated twist!
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