Last Updated on January 27, 2024 by Ibrahim Bat
Cold coffees are one of the most enjoyable ways to cool off during the summer months. However, the menu is quite rich in coffee, and it is hard to choose among them.
With its strong and intense flavor, Iced long black is an ideal iced coffee recipe for those who love cold coffees. With this recipe, you can enjoy your iced coffee without compromising the intense taste of coffee.
In this article from Best Coffee at Home, we will look at what an iced long black coffee is, how it is made, and what the differences are with its counterparts.
What is an Iced Long Black?
Iced long black is an espresso-based coffee made by adding ice to espresso diluted with cold water. In a sense, it could also be called the cold version of a regular hot long black. Unlike the hot version, the espresso is diluted with cold water, not hot, and served with plenty of ice.
The iced long black retains the strong and bold flavor of the espresso but provides a refreshing and cooling experience due to the addition of ice. It is popular for those looking for a strong and high-caffeine option, especially during the summer months.
Related: What is long black coffee?
Iced Long Black Recipe: Step By Step Guide
An iced long black is one of the most practical cold coffees to prepare. Unlike cold brew, it does not require hours of brewing time. To make iced long black, you only have to take an espresso shot and pour this shot over a mixture of ice and water.
However, to be able to make long black in its original version, you should pay attention to some details. I will touch on the key points of making iced long black shortly.
Iced Long Black Ingredients
- 2 Espresso Shot (2 oz, 60 ml)
- 180 ml (6 oz) of water at room or refrigerated temperature.
- Ice Cubes
Step 1) Prepare the Espresso
Prepare 1 shot of espresso using your espresso machine. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can also use your Nespresso or portable espresso maker to make espresso.
Step 2) Prepare the Cup
Fill your favorite cup with as many ice cubes as you want. Then add 120 ml (4 oz) of room temperature or preferably cold water to your cup.
Step 3) Pour the Espresso Shot
Pour your espresso shot gently into your cup to avoid disturbing the crema of the espresso.
Serving Tips for Iced Long Black
An iced long black is traditionally served without milk and sugar. However, nobody will stop you if you want to add a few things to your long black. What’s important is that you enjoy your coffee to personalize the recipe. Here are a few suggestions:
- Milk
- Caramel Syrup
- Vanilla Syrup
- Sugar
Pro tip: If you want to put sugar in your iced long black, I suggest doing it while the espresso is still hot because it’s not easy to dissolve sugar in a cold drink.
What is The Difference Between Iced Americano and Iced Long Black?
Although iced long black and iced Americano may seem like the same drinks, they have some differences. The first is the order in which espresso and water are added to the cup. In iced long black, water is added first, then espresso, thus preserving much of the espresso’s crema.
Another difference between these two coffees is the espresso-to-water ratio used. In long black coffee, the ratio varies from 1:3 to 1:4, meaning 3 to 4 units of water should be used for every unit of espresso. However, the range in Americano is wider, with the ratio varying from 1:3 to 1:6. But generally, more water is used in Americano than long black, making Americano a milder coffee.
Lastly, iced Americano and long black are popular coffees in different regions. Americano is generally popular in Europe and the US, while long black coffee is popular in Australia and New Zealand.
Final Thoughts and A Few Suggestions
Iced long black is, I would say, the most strong and most intense option among cold coffees. Therefore, it may be difficult to drink for some. For this reason, you can add the suggested add-ons or play with the espresso-to-water ratio to personalize the taste of your iced long black.
However, if it’s still too strong, I suggest trying iced Americano. On the other hand, if you’re looking for the easiest cold coffee to drink, cold brew might be the right drink for you.
I hope this article has answered all your questions about iced long black. If you think I’ve missed something, you can mention it in the comments or email us through the contact section.
Have caffeine-filled days!
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Iced Long Black Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Espresso Machine or nespresso
- 1 Coffee Grinder
Ingredients
- 2 Shot Espresso
- 180 ml Water
- Ice Cubes
Instructions
- Prepare the EspressoPrepare 1 shot of espresso using your espresso machine. If you don’t have an espresso machine, you can also use your Nespresso or Keurig to make espresso.
- Prepare the CupFill your favorite cup with as many ice cubes as you want. Then add 120 ml (4 oz) of room temperature or preferably cold water to your cup.
- Pour the Espresso ShotPour your espresso shot gently into your cup to avoid disturbing the crema of the espresso.
