You might be wondering, “What makes this iced coffee recipe any different from the gallons of cold brew I’ve consumed over the past year?” Well, my skeptical friend, this is no ordinary iced coffee. This is about taking your home coffee game to the next level with a recipe that’s not only easy to whip up but promises a taste that could rival your favourite coffee shop’s painstakingly crafted drink. And the best part? You can make it in your pajamas. No barista training required.
Whether you’re a seasoned coffee fan or someone who’s just looking to shake up their morning routine, this Ninja Iced Coffee recipe is for you.
How to make Ninja iced coffee
Ninja iced coffee typically refers to a type of cold-brewed coffee by Ninja that’s known for its strong flavor and smooth texture. It’s often made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period, usually around 12 to 24 hours, and then straining out the grounds.
Ingredients:
- Fresh Coffee Beans: The base of any great coffee. Go for a medium roast for that perfect balance of flavour and acidity.
- Cold Water: Just plain, fresh, cold water to brew the coffee.
- Ice Cubes: To chill the coffee and make it truly ‘iced.’
- Milk or Creamer (optional): Depending on your preference. Use almond, soy, or oat milk for vegan options.
- Sweetener (optional): Sugar, honey, or any sweetener of choice if you like your coffee sweet.
How to make Iced Coffee with Ninja Coffee Maker
Step 1: Brew Your Coffee
- Start by grinding your coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency. You’ll need about 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds per cup of water. If you have a Ninja coffee maker, set it to the ‘over ice’ brew setting to ensure the coffee is strong enough to handle the ice without becoming watery.
Step 2: Ice It Up
- Fill a glass to the top with ice cubes. This isn’t just to cool the coffee; it’s also about getting that crisp, refreshing texture.
Step 3: Pour Over Ice
- Once your coffee is brewed, immediately pour it over the glass full of ice. The quick cooling locks in the flavors and gives your coffee that silky smooth texture.
Step 4: Add Milk and Sweetener (Optional)
- If you’re into creamy coffee, add your preferred milk or Creamer. Sweeten to taste, stir well, and that’s it!
Pro Tips for Perfect Ninja Iced Coffee
- Use Quality Coffee: The better your beans, the better your coffee. Simple as that.
- Adjust to Taste: Play around with the amount of coffee, ice, and additives until you find the perfect mix for you.
- Chill Your Glass: Pop your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before preparing your coffee. This little trick keeps your drink colder for longer.
What to serve with
You’ve got your iced coffee in one hand — that smooth, refreshing nectar of the gods that makes mornings bearable. But something’s missing. You’re glancing around the kitchen, thinking, “What on earth do I pair with this liquid masterpiece?” Fear not! We’ve got some top-notch suggestions to turn your solo iced coffee into a dynamic duo of deliciousness.
Fresh Pastries
Let’s start with the basics. Pastries and coffee are like the dynamic duo of the breakfast world. A buttery croissant, a sweet muffin, or even a slice of banana bread can be the perfect complement to your iced coffee. These treats aren’t just delicious; they’re a match made in heaven for your tastebuds.
Breakfast Sandwiches
If you’re on team savory, a breakfast sandwich is where it’s at. Imagine a soft, freshly baked bagel filled with egg, cheese, and maybe some crispy bacon or avocado if you’re feeling fancy. The rich flavors and the kick from your iced coffee? Now that’s how you conquer the morning.
Fruit Parfaits
On those days when you’re looking for something on the lighter side, a fruit parfait can be your best friend. Layers of yogurt, granola, and fresh fruit paired with a cool sip of iced coffee provide a refreshing and satisfying start to your day. It’s like sending your mouth on a little vacation.
Vegan Treats
Thinking of something plant-based? There’s a world of vegan snacks out there that go beautifully with iced coffee. Think almond butter on toast with banana slices or a vegan lemon loaf. These combinations are sure to leave you both satisfied and energized.
Brunch Staples
Want to turn your iced coffee occasion into something more decadent? Whip up some brunch classics! Pancakes drenched in syrup, a fluffy omelette, or even avocado toast can elevate your iced coffee into brunch royalty status.
Ingredients Substitutes
What happens when you’re all set to whip up this icy delight and realize you’re out of a key ingredient? Or maybe you’re looking to tweak the recipe a bit to suit your dietary preferences or just shake things up.
No Fresh Coffee Beans? No Problem!
So you reached for the coffee beans and found the jar empty. Before you panic, consider these alternatives:
- Instant Coffee: Yep, you read that right. In a pinch, a high-quality instant coffee can get you pretty close to the real deal. Just make sure to dissolve it in a little hot water before combining it with the cold stuff.
- Cold Brew Concentrate: Available in most grocery stores, cold brew concentrate is a great stand-in and can even make your morning routine a bit quicker.
Water
Alright, so you’re thinking, “It’s just water; how could there be a swap?” But for those who are all about customization:
- Coconut Water: Swap out regular water for coconut water in your brewing process for a subtly sweet, tropical twist.
- Sparkling Water: After brewing, top your coffee with a splash of sparkling water for a fizzy, refreshing twist. Just pour gently to avoid a coffee volcano.
Ice
Are you running out of ice or are just looking for a twist?
- Coffee Ice Cubes: If you find regular ice dilutes your coffee too much, try freezing coffee into ice cubes. They keep your drink cold without compromising the flavor.
- Frozen Milk Cubes: This works great with any milk — dairy or plant-based. It adds a creamy texture as it melts, enriching your coffee experience.
Milk and Creamer Swaps
Dairy not your thing or just ran out? Here’s what you can do:
- Any Plant-Based Milk: Almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk can be a great lactose-free alternative to your traditional milk or Creamer. Each brings its own unique flavor and texture to the table, so feel free to experiment.
- Condensed Milk: Want your iced coffee with a hint of sweetness and creaminess? A little condensed milk goes a long way.
Sweeteners: Beyond Sugar
If you’re looking to switch up the sweetness or are simply out of your go-to sugar, consider:
- Maple Syrup or Honey: These natural sweeteners dissolve easily in cold beverages and add a unique flavor.
- Agave Nectar or Stevia: For a low-glycemic option, these sweeteners are excellent and blend nicely into cold coffee.
Final Thoughts
There you have it! Making Ninja Iced Coffee is as easy as pie—well, maybe even easier! This go-to beverage is perfect for any season but is especially delightful as the weather gets warmer. Just imagine sipping on your perfectly crafted iced coffee, the sun casting a warm glow all around… bliss, right?
More Coffee Recipes:
Ingredients
- Fresh Coffee Beans: The base of any great coffee. Go for a medium roast for that perfect balance of flavour and acidity.
- Cold Water: Just plain, fresh, cold water to brew the coffee.
- Ice Cubes: To chill the coffee and make it truly 'iced.'
- Milk or Creamer (optional): Depending on your preference. Use almond, soy, or oat milk for vegan options.
- Sweetener (optional): Sugar, honey, or any sweetener of choice if you like your coffee sweet.
Instructions
Step 1: Brew Your Coffee
- Start by grinding your coffee beans to a medium-fine consistency. You'll need about 2 tablespoons of coffee grounds per cup of water. If you have a Ninja coffee maker, set it to the 'over ice' brew setting to ensure the coffee is strong enough to handle the ice without becoming watery.
Step 2: Ice It Up
- Fill a glass to the top with ice cubes. This isn't just to cool the coffee; it's also about getting that crisp, refreshing texture.
Step 3: Pour Over Ice
- Once your coffee is brewed, immediately pour it over the glass full of ice. The quick cooling locks in the flavors and gives your coffee that silky smooth texture.
Step 4: Add Milk and Sweetener (Optional)
- If you're into creamy coffee, add your preferred milk or Creamer. Sweeten to taste, stir well, and that's it!
