Iced Latte vs Iced Coffee are two summer staples when it comes to cool caffeinated drinks. Iced coffee is typically brewed coffee that has been cooled, while Iced lattes combine espresso with ice and milk.
Iced lattes have more flavor than Iced coffees due to the sweetness added by the milk, yet Iced coffees contain less calories and fat due to having no dairy.
When trying to decide between Iced coffee vs Iced latte, it’s important to take your diet into account as well as understand that Iced lattes may satisfy a longing for a sweeter beverage.
What’s Iced Coffee?
Iced coffee is essentially brewed coffee that has been cooled down. It can be brewed in a variety of ways, including pour-over, espresso machine, French press and cold brew.
Once the hot coffee has been prepared it is poured over ice to cool it; this causes some of the flavor compounds to evaporate so an iced version may not taste as strong or as robust as a hot version. It is typically served with cream, sugar and/or flavored syrups.
What’s Iced Latte?
An iced latte is an espresso-based drink that combines espresso shots with ice and milk. The espresso is poured over the ice, followed by the cold milk and is usually topped with foam.
It is typically served with syrup, sugar or flavored creamers to make a sweeter drink. Iced lattes can be made with alternative milks such as almond or oat milk, but it may affect the texture and flavor of the drink.
Iced Coffee vs Iced Latte: What’s Different?
An iced coffee is a hot-brewed cup of espresso or coffee that is poured over ice. It’s a refreshing alternative to the hot version, with an added sweetness from the melted ice cubes. Since it’s not mixed with any dairy, it has a more intense flavor and can be slightly bitter depending on your brew method.
On the other hand, an iced latte is made with the same components, but includes steamed milk or cream to create a creamy blend. The added dairy balances out some of the bitterness from the espresso shot, resulting in a smoother and sweeter flavor. We recommend using either 2% or whole milk for this drink — almond or coconut milks can also be used for a vegan version.
Type of coffee:
If you’re looking for a classic iced coffee, we recommend Starbucks Signature Blonde Roast. This signature blend is made from 100% Arabica beans, resulting in a slight nuttiness with notes of cocoa and toasted nuts. Our medium roast Pike Place® Roast has bright citrusy notes that bring out the sweetness and acidity of cold brew.
We also have some seasonal blends like the seasonal Starbucks Reserve® Cold Brew Blend, which is aged before it’s brewed to bring out sweet and smoky flavors.
Taste:
When it comes to taste, there’s no right or wrong answer. Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to coffee, so experiment with different blends and brewing methods until you find the one that suits your tastes best.
Brewing method:
If you’re making an iced coffee at home, the simplest way is to brew a hot cup and pour it over ice. For cold brew concentrate, steep coarsely ground coffee in room temperature water for 12 hours. Strain your brewed concentrate through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth and store it in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Add a ¼ cup of the cold brew concentrate to a glass filled with ice cubes, and top it off with one part water. For an iced latte, combine 1 part espresso shot and 2 parts steamed milk in a tall glass filled with ice cubes.
Serving:
When it comes to serving iced coffees and lattes, there’s no right or wrong way — it’s just what you prefer. If you like a stronger flavor and an extra kick of caffeine, go ahead and add some more espresso shots. If you want something sweeter, top it off with a drizzle of caramel or honey.
Caffeine content:
Iced coffees and lattes have the same amount of caffeine as their hot counterparts — about 95 milligrams per 8-ounce cup. While it’s still a good source of caffeine, remember that too much caffeine can lead to restlessness, anxiety, and even insomnia. As always, it’s important to listen to your body and consume in moderation.
Ingredients:
To make a delicious iced latte or iced coffee, you’ll need freshly ground espresso beans, cold brew concentrate (for the iced coffee), milk (or dairy-free alternative for vegan option), honey, and ice. Most of these ingredients can be found in your local grocery store or online. And if you don’t have an espresso machine, you can also use instant espresso powder or shots for a quicker option.
What Iced Lattes vs Iced Coffee Have In Common?
- Both iced coffee and iced lattes are made with espresso shots, either brewed hot or cold.
- They both contain caffeine, although the amount can vary depending on your preferred cup size.
- The main difference between an iced latte and an iced coffee is the addition of steamed milk in a latte.
- You can customize your iced drinks with a variety of flavors and syrups.
- They make a great summertime refreshment and can be made in the comfort of your own home.
So, now that you’re familiar with the differences between an iced coffee and an iced latte, it’s time to start brewing! Whether you’re looking for a creamy cafe-style latte or a cool and refreshing cup of iced coffee, Starbucks has something for everyone.
How much caffeine is in a Dunkin iced latte?
A Dunkin iced latte contains 90 milligrams of caffeine per 8-ounce serving, which is slightly higher than the average amount found in an iced latte. The amount may vary depending on the size of the drink and any added ingredients or syrups that are used. It’s important to understand that adding any additional ingredients may further increase the caffeine content.
How Do They Taste?
Iced coffees typically have a bold, robust flavor that is slightly acidic and bittersweet. Iced lattes are usually creamy and sweet with hints of espresso. Some iced latte recipes may contain additional ingredients or syrups to give it a unique flavor, so the taste can vary depending on what you’re drinking.
Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference when deciding which beverage to choose. Both iced coffees and iced lattes are excellent options for beating the summer heat!
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Latte vs Mocha
Cappuccino vs Mocha: What’s the difference and which one should you choose?
Café Au Lait vs Latte: 6 Differences You Need To Know
How To Make Iced Coffee?
If you’re looking to make an iced coffee at home, all you need are the following:
Ingredients:
- Coffee beans or grounds of your choice
- Hot water
- Ice cubes
- Milk/creamer (optional)
- Sugar (optional)
Step:
- Start by grinding your coffee beans or using pre-ground coffee.
- Boil water and pour it over the grounds in a French press or filter of your choice.
- Let the mixture steep for 4-5 minutes before pushing down on the plunger to separate the grounds from the liquid.
- Pour the coffee into a cup with ice cubes and stir until the mixture is cool.
- Add milk, cream, or sugar if desired and serve!
Making an iced coffee at home has never been easier! With just a few simple steps you can whip up your own cold brew in no time. Plus, you can customize your drink with all the ingredients you like and make it exactly how you prefer. So go ahead, experiment with flavors and create the perfect summer beverage!
How To Make An Iced Latte?
If you’re looking to make an iced latte at home, all you need are the following:
Ingredients:
- Espresso or strong coffee of your choice
- Milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- Ice cubes
- Sugar (optional)
Steps:
- Start by brewing your espresso or strong coffee.
- Add your desired amount of milk and sugar, if using, to a blender.
- Add ice cubes to the mixture and blend until creamy and smooth.
- Pour the latte into a glass filled with ice cubes and stir until the mixture is cool.
- Enjoy your refreshing iced latte!
Making an iced latte at home has never been easier. With just a few simple steps you can create this delicious and satisfying drink right in the comfort of your own home. Plus, you can customize it with all the ingredients you like and make it exactly how you prefer. So go ahead, experiment with flavors and create the perfect summer beverage!
How To Choose Between Iced Coffee vs Iced Latte
Deciding between an iced coffee and an iced latte can be difficult, so here are a few points to consider when making your choice:
– Caffeine Level: The main difference between the two drinks is the amount of caffeine. An iced latte contains more caffeine than an iced coffee, as espresso is used to make lattes and typically has a higher caffeine content than drip coffee.
– Taste: Iced coffees tend to be bolder and slightly bitter in taste, while iced lattes are sweeter due to the added milk. So if you prefer a sweeter drink, an iced latte may be the better choice.
– Preparation: Both drinks are easy to make at home, but making an iced latte requires more steps and ingredients than an iced coffee does.
FAQs
Q: What is the difference between an iced coffee and an iced latte?
A: The main difference between the two drinks is the amount of caffeine. An iced latte contains more caffeine than an iced coffee, as espresso is used to make lattes and typically has a higher caffeine content than drip coffee. Additionally, iced coffees tend to be bolder and slightly bitter in taste, while iced lattes are sweeter due to the added milk.
Q: What ingredients do I need for an iced latte?
A: To make an iced latte at home, you will need espresso or strong coffee of your choice, milk, sugar (optional), and ice cubes.
Q: How do I make an iced latte?
A: Making an iced latte is easy! Start by adding espresso or strong coffee to a blender with milk and sugar (if using). Then add the ice cubes and blend until creamy and smooth. Finally, pour the mixture into a glass and enjoy your iced latte.
Q: What is the best milk to use for an iced latte?
A: The best milk to use for an iced latte depends on your personal preference. Generally, whole milk or 2% milk is recommended since they are creamier in consistency and will give you a richer taste. If you prefer non-dairy milk, soy, almond or oat milk are great options that pair well with espresso.
Q: Can I add flavoring to an iced latte?
A: Absolutely! Adding flavors to your iced latte is a great way to customize it and make it even tastier. Popular choices include syrups, such as vanilla or caramel, or you can get creative and experiment with different fruit purees or spices.
Q: Is an iced latte better than an iced coffee?
A: Ultimately, it depends on your personal preference. An iced latte contains more caffeine than an iced coffee, but if you prefer a sweeter drink then an iced latte may be the better choice for you.
Q: How much does an iced latte usually cost?
A: Prices for an iced latte can vary depending on the coffee shop. Generally, it will cost about $2-4 USD for a small cup of iced latte.
Q: Is an iced latte healthy?
A: An iced latte can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderationj. Opt for skim or low-fat milk to reduce the amount of fat and calories. Additionally, you can use a sugar substitute such as Stevia to reduce added sugar in your latte.
Q: How long does an iced latte last?
A: An iced latte is best enjoyed fresh, so it’s best to drink it within an hour of making it. If you’re not consuming the latte right away, store the cup in the refrigerator until you’re ready to enjoy it.
Q: Is an iced latte stronger than a regular latte?
A: Yes, an iced latte is usually stronger than a regular latte since the ice cubes dilute the espresso. If you prefer a weaker drink, try using less espresso or more milk to balance out the flavor.
Q: What is the difference between an iced latte and a frappuccino?
A: An iced latte is made with espresso, milk and ice cubes. A frappuccino is made with coffee, milk, ice and sugar syrup. Iced lattes tend to have a more robust flavor due to the espresso, while frappuccinos are usually sweeter due to the added sugar syrup.
Q: Can I make an iced latte with cold brew?
A: Yes, you can absolutely use cold brew to make your iced latte. Simply add the desired amount of cold brew and milk to a glass filled with ice cubes and stir until combined. You can also adjust the sweetness level by adding sugar or syrup, if desired.
Q: Can I make an iced latte with just espresso and ice?
A: Yes, you can certainly make an iced latte with just espresso and ice. Start by pouring the desired amount of espresso over ice cubes in a glass. Then add your preferred amount of milk and stir until combined.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Iced Latte and Iced Coffee have their own advantages depending on individual preference. Iced latte is a rich, creamy and luxurious interpretation of Iced coffee, as it consists of espresso combined with steamed milk resulting in a silky texture.
Iced Coffee is lighter and more refreshing than Iced Latte; but with the addition of unique flavors, like coconut or hazelnut, it can be an indulgent treat that is more economical than an Iced Latte.
Ultimately, the decision between Iced Latte and Iced Coffee comes down to personal preference as both beverages offer great flavor and cooling refreshment.
I’m Kara Chavez, and I love coffee. I like to create some of the best coffees around – espressos, lattes, macchiatos – you name it. I strive for perfection in my coffee-making skills, and I take great pride in providing a delicious cup of joe to my customers.
I’ve been working in the coffee industry for years now, and I know everything there is to know about making a perfect cup of coffee. My passion for coffee shines through in every cup that I make, and I hope that you’ll stop by soon so that I can share my love of coffee with you!