When temperatures rise, the steaming morning coffee readily gives way to cooler drinks. The good news is: switching to the summer version doesn't mean sacrificing pleasure or quality. At Maison Taillefer, roasters since 1945, we prepare our coffees and infusions to bring out their best, even when served ice-cold.
Here are our 5 favorite summer drinks, easy to make at home, and tips to make them a success every time.
Hazelnut-flavored Iced Coffee
Hazelnut-flavored iced coffee is undoubtedly the perfect introduction to refreshing summer drinks. Its rich, smooth taste naturally softens the bitterness of coffee, making it a delicious and approachable beverage, even for those who find classic iced coffee too strong.
How to prepare it? Prepare a hazelnut flavored coffee Stir it a little stronger than usual (adding ice cubes will dilute it later), let it cool, then pour it over ice. Add a splash of cold milk, dairy or plant-based, for a creamier texture.
Our tip: Freeze coffee in an ice cube tray. These coffee ice cubes will chill your drink without diluting it. A simple step for preserving the intensity from the first sip to the last.
The hazelnut flavor pairs particularly well with a a touch of maple syrup or a little bit of almond milk, for a drink that is both generous and balanced.
Vanilla-flavored Iced Coffee
Softer and more floral, the vanilla flavor brings a subtle elegance to iced coffee. It is The drink for quiet afternoons, The kind you savor slowly in the shade. Its authentic aromatic profile is reminiscent of childhood desserts, without ever being overly sweet.
How to prepare it? The same principle as for hazelnuts: a vanilla coffee Properly measured, chilled, and served over ice. Vanilla is often enough on its own and doesn't require anything else.
Our tip: For an even more indulgent version, turn it into an iced coffee. Blend the cold vanilla coffee with a few ice cubes and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You'll get a frothy and creamy drink, somewhere between coffee and dessert. A unique treat for the hottest days.
Iced vanilla coffee also lends itself to some lovely variations: a touch of cinnamon, an orange zest, or even a mint leaf for freshness.
Caramel-flavored Iced Coffee
If you're looking for the most indulgent drink in this selection, the caramel-flavored iced coffee takes the prize. Its intense, lightly toasted notes evoke butterscotch, for a comforting result even on a hot day.
How to prepare it? Prepare your caramel-flavored coffee, Let it cool slightly, then pour it over ice cubes in a tall glass. Caramel goes wonderfully with milk: don't hesitate to add plenty.
Our tip: Make a homemade iced caramel latte. In a glass, drizzle some caramel sauce, add cold milk and ice cubes, then gently pour coffee over it to create a pretty gradient effect. Visually irresistible, and perfect for entertaining.
Iced caramel coffee is also an excellent base for... more festive versions : a few drops of vanilla, a pinch of fleur de sel, or a hint of chocolate for those with a sweet tooth.
Iced Infusions
Not all summer drinks contain caffeine. iced infusions are the ideal option for refresh yourself at any time, They can be enjoyed even at the end of the day, without disrupting sleep. Fruity, floral, or herbaceous, the possibilities are endless.
How to prepare them? You have two options. The classic method involves steeping the herbs in hot water, then letting them cool before adding ice. The cold brew method involves infusing the herbs for several hours in the refrigerator, in cold water. This results in a milder, less bitter, and incredibly refreshing beverage.
Our tip: Prepare a large carafe of tea the night before and let it infuse overnight in the refrigerator. The next day, you'll have a ready-to-drink infusion to enjoy all day long. Add fresh fruit (strawberries, peaches, citrus fruits), a few mint leaves, or a slice of cucumber for a unique and refreshing homemade drink.
Iced infusions can be kept for 24 to 48 hours in the refrigerator, in a sealed carafe. A colorful and fragrant drink with no added sugar, sure to please the whole family.
Fruity Green Teas
Finally, it's impossible to talk about summer without mentioning the fruity green teas. Served iced, they combine the fresh, vegetal notes of green tea with the sweetness of fruit, for a drink that is both thirst-quenching and refined. Iced green tea is, in fact, one of the most popular summer drinks in the world.
How to prepare them? Green tea requires special attention: water that is too hot It turns bitter. Infuse it in water around 70-80°C for 2-3 minutes, then let it cool before adding ice. For ready-to-drink iced tea, the cold brew method also works very well.
Our tip: Pair your green tea with seasonal fruits. Peach, berries, citrus fruits, or passion fruit enhance its aromas and give it a summery feel. A homemade fruity green tea, served in a tall glass with a few ice cubes and a slice of lemon, becomes a sophisticated drink worthy of the finest terraces.
Iced green tea is also appreciated for its refreshing properties and its low theine content compared to coffee, making it an excellent afternoon drink.
How to successfully make all 5 of these summer drinks?
A few simple principles apply to all of these summer drinks:
- Use a stronger dose. Ice cubes dilute the drink as they melt: compensate by preparing a slightly more concentrated coffee or infusion.
- Chill before freezing. Pouring a hot drink directly onto ice cubes makes them melt too quickly. Let it cool down first.
- Use flavored ice cubes. Frozen coffee, tea, or infusions preserve the intensity of your summer drinks without making them bland.
- Sweeten with syrup when cold. Sugar dissolves poorly in a cold drink; homemade sugar syrup mixes instantly.
Up to you ! Iced coffee with hazelnut, vanilla, or caramel flavors, refreshing infusions, or fruity green teas: our 5 favorite summer drinks prove that it's possible to indulge while staying cool. Each one can be prepared in minutes with quality ingredients and a little imagination.
At Maison Taillefer, we've been selecting and roasting our coffees with the same care since 1945, ensuring that every cup, hot or iced, remains an authentic moment. Discover our range of flavored coffees, infusions, and teas at maisontaillefer.fr, and create your favorite summer beverage.
And which one do you test first?
