Refreshing Coffee Recipes to Try This Summer

When the sun’s out and the heat is rising, hot coffee isn’t always the most appealing pick-me-up. But that doesn’t mean you have to skip your daily dose of caffeine! With a little creativity, you can enjoy refreshing coffee drinks that are made for warmer weather. Whether you’re looking for summer coffee recipes to cool down with or new summer coffee drinks ideas to serve guests, this list has something for everyone.

From iced classics to fruity blends and even summer coffee cocktails, here are the best coffee recipes for summer to shake up your routine.

Iced Coffee Classics

Cold Brew Concentrate

A smooth, less acidic alternative to hot coffee, cold brew coffee is the foundation for many easy coffee recipes in summer.

• Combine coarsely ground coffee and cold water in a jar with a 1:4 ratio for a strong concentrate or 1:8 for ready-to-drink coffee.
  
• Steep for 12–24 hours and strain.
  
• Customize with milk, flavored syrups, or a splash of cream.

Coffee Ice Cube Latte

Perfect for hot weather, this is a no-blend frozen summer coffee idea that only gets better as it melts.

• Freeze leftover coffee in an ice cube tray.
  
• Fill a glass with the coffee cubes and pour cold milk over them.
  
• Add a sweetener or syrup if desired.

Sweet & Creamy Summer Treats

Vietnamese Iced Coffee (Cà Phê Sữa Đá)

This bold and sweet drink is made using strong drip coffee and sweetened condensed milk.

• Fill a glass with ice, pour in the condensed milk, and top with strong coffee.
  
• Stir well and sip slowly. It’s rich and satisfying.

Affogato

Not quite a drink, not quite dessert, this Italian treat is a hybrid of both.

• Scoop vanilla ice cream into a glass and pour hot espresso over it.
  
• For a fun twist, try hazelnut, caramel, or mocha ice cream instead.

Iced Mocha

A go-to summer coffee drink for anyone who loves chocolate and coffee together.

• Mix espresso with chocolate syrup and cold milk, then serve over ice.
  
• Add whipped cream and a drizzle of chocolate sauce if you’re feeling indulgent.

Frozen Vanilla Coffee Shake

Tastes like a coffee milkshake with minimal effort.

• All you need is cold brew, vanilla ice cream or frozen yogurt, a splash of milk. Then blend until creamy.
  
• Optional: Top with whipped cream and cinnamon.

Fruity & Floral Coffee Twists

Citrus Cold Brew

Add a bright, citrusy kick to your cold brew coffee with fresh zest.

• Combine orange or lemon peel with cold brew and let it infuse in the fridge.
  
• Serve over ice with a thin slice of citrus for a pop of flavor.

Honey Rose Iced Latte

This floral-forward latte is a sweet, fragrant, and totally Instagram-worthy summer coffee drink.

• Make a simple syrup using dried rose petals, honey, and water.
  
• Shake espresso, cold milk, and a bit of syrup with ice for a light summer drink.

Pineapple Espresso Fizz

Tropical flavor with a caffeine kick.

• Mix 1 oz pineapple juice with a shot of espresso.
  
• Pour over ice and top with club soda.
  
• Garnish with a pineapple wedge for an extra fun touch.

Blended & Frozen Favorites

Frozen Caramel Coffee Frappe

This café-style drink is a frozen favorite.

• Blend ice, strong brewed coffee or espresso, caramel syrup, and milk.
  
• Top with whipped cream and more caramel if desired.

Iced Mocha Popsicles

Fun to prepare in advance and perfect for hot afternoons.

• Blend brewed coffee, chocolate milk or milk + cocoa powder, and sweetener.
  
• Mix, pour into popsicle molds, and freeze.
  
• Add layers of cream for visual flair.

Espresso Tonic

A sophisticated summer coffee idea that’s become a staple in trendy cafes.

• Fill a glass with ice and tonic water, then slowly pour in a shot of espresso.
  
• Finish with a lime wedge for balance.

Boozy Summer Coffee Cocktails

Want to take your summer sipping up a notch? These summer coffee cocktails combine coffee with your favorite spirits for a fun twist.

Cold Brew Negroni

• Equal parts cold brew, gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth over ice.
  
• Stir and garnish with an orange peel.

Espresso Martini

• Shake together espresso, vodka, and coffee liqueur with ice.
  
• Strain into a martini glass and garnish with coffee beans.

Iced Irish Coffee

• Mix cold brew with a shot of Irish whiskey and a touch of simple syrup.
  
• Float lightly whipped cream on top for a classic finish.

Tips for Brewing Coffee in Summer

• Use a medium roast for smoother flavor in cold recipes.
  
• Brew stronger coffee to account for ice dilution.
  
• Experiment with flavors like cinnamon, cardamom, or vanilla to elevate simple drinks.
  

Final Sip: Your Summer Coffee Adventure Awaits

Whether you’re blending up a smoothie, chilling with cold brew, or experimenting with coffee recipes for summer, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy your brew during the warmer months. These summer coffee drinks ideas are a fun way to stay cool and caffeinated. Plus, they’re easy to make right at home!

So try a new recipe (or three), and let your next cup be the highlight of your summer mornings. Looking for beautiful glassware to show off your creations? Explore Kitchables for elegant double-walled glass mugs and a range of coffee accessories to elevate your brewing experience.