Even though coffee is typically drunk hot, you may not want a steaming cup of coffee when the high, but oh so wonderful, summer temperatures arrive. The iced cappuccino is the perfect alternative if you need some energy...but without the heat!
The cappuccino is inspired by Viennese coffee. In cafés in Vienna, they put whipped cream on coffee, and according to the Italians, they came up with the idea of putting milk foam on top. The word cappuccino, pronounced [ka-puh-chee-no], is borrowed from the language of love. It means ‘capuchin’, which refers to the colour of the habit worn by the Capuchin monks (which is hazelnut brown), more commonly known as the Order of the Capuchin Friars.
In that sense, this same mixture is found in an iced cappuccino, specifically coffee and milk, and then ice is added to chill the drink. It is a little harder to identify the exact origin of the iced cappuccino, but the roots of iced coffee have been traced back to 19th century in Australia. Today, there are various alternatives for iced coffee lovers, but the iced cappuccino (or ice cap!) remains a Canadian classic.
This recipe is so simple, you’d be crazy not to try it. It can be made in a couple minutes with three easy-to-find ingredients. It goes without saying that you’ll need coffee, and for that we recommend a double shot of espresso, however, it all depends on how much caffeine you do (or do not) want. It’s up to you to choose the blend or origin of your choice, all of them would work well for an iced cappuccino! Then, add the coffee to the milk and some ice cubes to chill the mixture. You can also add sugar if you so desire. Then, it’s time to chill!
Extract a short double espresso.
Add a lot of ice into a large glass (12 to 16 oz.)
Pour the espresso over the ice, then thin with milk.
At this point you can choose to add sugar, maple syrup, herbs and spices, or even alcohol.
Finally, you have three options:
stir the cappuccino with a long spoon OR
put everything in the blender for a slushy-like consistency OR
shake the mixture, which will give you a nice foamy consistency.
For a dessert alternative, add whipped cream on top of your iced cappuccino, and some chocolate syrup, after all, why not? Now, all that’s left is to enjoy it and chill out!
