What Kind of Ice Works Best for Iced Coffee?

Quick answer: Larger cubes generally melt more slowly than crushed ice, reducing dilution over the same period when other conditions are similar.

What to know

For minimal dilution, chill coffee before pouring it over large cubes. For a quick, very cold drink, smaller cubes increase contact with the coffee.

Practical tips

Coffee ice cubes are another option: freeze leftover brewed coffee in a clean tray, then add them to iced coffee.

Frequently asked question

Will coffee ice cubes change the flavor?

They usually preserve coffee flavor as they melt, although very old or poorly stored cubes can pick up freezer odors.

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