Refreshing Mexican Iced Coffee – Spiced & Sweet Cold Brew

If you’re looking to spice up your coffee routine with something truly special, this Mexican Iced Coffee recipe is exactly what you need. Inspired by the traditional Café de Olla, this refreshing drink combines rich coffee with warm cinnamon spice and a touch of sweetness that’ll transport you straight to a sunny Mexican café.

This delightful beverage takes the beloved flavors of Mexican coffee culture and transforms them into the perfect cold drink for warm weather. The combination of cinnamon, coffee, and a hint of vanilla creates a complexity that’s both comforting and invigorating.

Recipe Information

• Servings: 4 people
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Brewing Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Course: Beverage
• Cuisine: Mexican

Equipment Needed

• Large saucepan or pot
• Fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter
• Large pitcher or jar
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon
• Tall glasses for serving
• Ice cube trays

You Might Like These Recipes –

• Rich and Creamy French Onion Pasta Everyone Will Love
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Gnocchi for Cozy Nights
• Moist and Sweet Homemade Peach Bread Recipe
• Healthy Salmon Spinach Pasta in 30 Minutes
• Crispy Air Fryer Pizza Rolls in Minutes
• Sweet and Crunchy Air Fryer Churro Bites

Ingredients

For the Coffee Base:

• 1 cup coarsely ground dark roast coffee
• 4 cups water
• 2 cinnamon sticks
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Serving:

• Ice cubes
• 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
• Whipped cream (optional)
• Ground cinnamon for dusting
• Cinnamon sticks for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon Coffee Concentrate

1. In a large saucepan, combine water and cinnamon sticks. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the cinnamon flavor.
3. Remove from heat and add the ground coffee. Stir well to ensure all grounds are saturated.
4. Let the mixture steep for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Sweeten and Strain

1. Add brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the coffee mixture. Stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
2. Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or coffee filter into a pitcher, pressing the grounds gently to extract maximum flavor.
3. Discard the coffee grounds and cinnamon sticks.

Step 3: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the coffee concentrate to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or until completely chilled.
2. To serve, fill tall glasses with ice cubes.
3. Pour the chilled coffee concentrate over ice, filling glasses about 3/4 full.
4. Add milk or cream to taste, stirring gently.
5. Top with whipped cream if desired, and dust with ground cinnamon.
6. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and serve immediately.

Pro Tips for Perfect Mexican Iced Coffee

• Choose the Right Coffee: Use a dark roast coffee with chocolate or nutty notes to complement the cinnamon
• Don’t Skip the Salt: A tiny pinch enhances all the other flavors
• Make it Ahead: The concentrate can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in the refrigerator
• Customize Sweetness: Adjust brown sugar to your preference, or try piloncillo for authentic Mexican flavor
• Ice Quality Matters: Use fresh, clean ice to avoid diluting the coffee’s flavor

Variations to Try

Dairy-Free Version: Replace milk with coconut milk, almond milk, or oat milk for a plant-based option.

Extra Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a small piece of star anise while brewing for more complexity.

Mocha Style: Stir in 2 tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder with the brown sugar.

Adult Version: Add a splash of Kahlúa or rum for an evening treat.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store the coffee concentrate in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Freezing: Not recommended as it may affect texture and flavor
• Best Served: Fresh, within 24 hours of preparation for optimal taste

The Story Behind Mexican Coffee Culture

Mexican coffee culture runs deep, with Café de Olla being a traditional preparation method dating back generations. The clay pot (olla) used in traditional preparation imparts an earthy flavor, while cinnamon adds warmth and complexity. This iced version captures those same beloved flavors in a refreshing format perfect for modern coffee lovers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

This Mexican Iced Coffee recipe brings authentic flavors to your kitchen with simple ingredients and easy preparation. Whether you’re hosting friends or treating yourself to something special, this refreshing beverage is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.