Simple ingredient will stop iced coffee tasting watery and bland during heatwave

The UK is gearing up for a scorcher as another heatwavesweeps the nation this weekend, meaning it's so important to stay cool – and what better way than with a delicious iced coffee?

Whether you're a fan of a simple black iced coffee or prefer one with oat milk and a drizzle of caramel syrup, there's no denying the appeal of this refreshing drink, especially when it's warm out.

However, despite its popularity, many are ditching overpriced high-street versions in favour of homemade recipes. If you find your homemade brew turning into a watery disappointment shortly after stepping outside, you're likely making one very common mistake.

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Coffee expert Jonathan Sitson, founder of Quick Whip, has shared the secret to an iced coffee that retains its strong taste even under the blazing sun. It isn't just how you make the coffee; it lies in what you freeze, reports the Express.

He said: "Coffee ice cubes are a simple way to keep iced coffee cold without watering it down. Unlike regular ice, they melt into more coffee, rather than weak, flavourless liquid. They're also a clever way to use up leftover brew."

So if you want to level up your iced coffee game this summer, here's how to do it.

How to make coffee ice cubes

Firstly, allow your brewed coffee to cool before decanting it into the ice cube mould – this not only makes it easier to handle, but also prevents potential damage to your trays. Hold off on adding any milk or sweeteners, as coffee in its pure form is best for freezing.

Remember to give a bit of space at the top of each section in your ice cube tray, particularly if your coffee hasn't fully cooled off, since it will expand when it starts to solidify.

Leave in the freezer overnight, or for at least four hours. Once frozen, store the cubes in an airtight container or freezer bag to avoid stale taste or unpleasant odours.

To serve, simply drop the cubes into a glass and pour your iced coffee over the top.

"If you want them to last even longer in the glass, use a larger cube tray and an insulated cup. You'll get up to an hour of perfect iced coffee. For extra flavour, try adding a splash of syrup or a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg before freezing," Jonathon added.