Five summer coffee recipes that will delight you

For many people, the day doesn't start without a cup of coffee. However, when temperatures exceed 30 degrees, a classic hot espresso or a large cup of black coffee sometimes seems less appealing than during the colder months. That's why refreshing versions of the favorite beverage come into play in the summer – iced coffees that wake you up, cool you down, and provide a real little treat at the same time.

The good news is that most of them don't require expensive machines or special barista skills. With a few ingredients and a little imagination, you can make drinks at home that look like they came from your favorite coffee shop.

Here are five recipes that could become your favorites this summer.

1. Classic iced coffee

Sometimes simple is best. You need:

- 1 espresso or stronger homemade coffee

- ice cubes

- 100 ml of cold milk

- sugar or sweetener of choice

Preparation

Brew the coffee and let it cool completely. Pour ice into a tall glass, add the coffee and milk. Stir and serve immediately.

This is the simplest version of iced coffee, ideal for waking up in the morning on hot days.

2. Greek Frappe Coffee

A summer classic that has been conquering Mediterranean beaches for decades.

It is necessary:

- 2 teaspoons instant coffee

- 1 to 2 teaspoons of sugar

- a little cold water

- ice

- milk as desired

Preparation

Beat the instant coffee, sugar and two tablespoons of water with a mixer or hand whisk until you get a thick foam.

Pour the foam into a glass, add ice and top up with cold water or milk.

The result is a light, frothy and extremely refreshing drink that many consider a symbol of summer.

3. Iced coffee with vanilla

If you like coffee from famous global chains, this version will delight you. You will need:

- espresso

- 150 ml of cold milk

- ice

- a teaspoon of vanilla extract or vanilla sugar

- a little honey or maple syrup

Preparation

Mix all ingredients in a blender or shaker.

Vanilla gives a mild and creamy flavor that goes perfectly with the aroma of coffee.

It's perfect for a light summer breakfast.

4. Coconut iced coffee

For those who want to feel like they are on a tropical vacation.

It is necessary:

- 1 espresso

- 150 ml coconut milk

- ice

- a little cinnamon

Preparation

Pour the cooled coffee over the ice, add the coconut milk and stir gently.

Sprinkle with cinnamon if desired.

The combination of coconut and coffee gives an unusually refreshing and exotic taste that is especially pleasant on warm afternoons.

5. Affogato – when coffee and ice cream fall in love

This is more of a dessert than a coffee, but coffee lovers love it.

It is necessary:

- a scoop of vanilla ice cream

- freshly prepared espresso

Preparation

Place a scoop of ice cream in a glass or small bowl and pour hot espresso over it just before serving.

Hot coffee slowly melts the ice cream, creating the perfect combination of creamy sweetness and intense aroma.

Ideal for moments when you can't decide whether you want coffee or dessert.

The little secret to the perfect summer coffee

Baristas recommend using a slightly stronger brew for iced coffees. The ice melts over time and dilutes the drink, so the stronger aroma will remain until the last sip.

Also, if you drink iced coffee often, you can brew a larger amount in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days.

Coffee as a summer ritual

Although there is often talk about how much water we should drink during the summer, there is no reason to give up our favorite coffee. Moderately consumed coffee can be part of our daily routine even during the hottest months, especially when it is transformed into a refreshing beverage that cools us down and wakes us up at the same time.

And perhaps that's exactly the charm of summer coffees - they're not just a source of energy, but a small ritual of enjoyment that can turn an ordinary day into a moment of relaxation, even if it only lasts a few minutes.