Home » Recipes » French Press Recipes » How to make Iced Coffee with a French Press

How to make Iced Coffee with a French Press

5 from 23 votes

This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.

Sharing is caring!

Are you tired of the same old hot cup of coffee? Do you crave something refreshing and invigorating to kickstart your day? Then you’ll love this delicious recipe for making Iced Coffee with a French press! Just the perfect way, to start the day!

If so, then you’re in for a treat!

Let’s dive into the world of French press iced coffee—a cool, bold escape from ordinary java.

If you wanna make a delicious French Press Iced Coffee in advance, you can easily switch to our French Press cold brew recipe instead. When making overnight cold brew French press coffee, you pour cold water over your ground coffee and leave it to infuse in the fridge for between 7 and 12 hours.

But if you want your French press iced coffee quick, opt for this recipe. In this recipe, you pour your hotly brewed French press coffee over ice and enjoy it within 10 minutes.

What’s Awesome About This Iced Coffee Recipe?

  • It’s refreshing: Sipping on a chilled glass of French press iced coffee is like taking a plunge into an oasis of coolness.
  • It’s versatile: Customize your brew with different coffee beans and brewing times to suit your taste preferences.
  • It’s easy to make: No fancy equipment or elaborate steps are required—just a French press, coffee, water, and ice.

Ingredients you need

  • Coffee beans: Select any type of coffee beans for this awesome brew. Purchase or grind your coffee beans to a coarse size (about the size of flaky sea salt).
  • Water: Filtered water is the best choice for coffee brewing.
  • Cubed Ice for the serving glass

How To Make Iced Coffee with a French Press?

Step One: Boil water and let it cool for a minute to reach 93°C (200°F).

Step Two: Measure the coffee beans and grind them coarse.

Step Three: Rinse the French Press with hot water to preheat.

Step Four: Place the French Press on a scale, add ground coffee, and zero the scale.

Step Five: Start the timer and pour in hot water.

Step Six: Let it brew for 4 minutes without stirring.

Pour in the hot water.
Let the coffee steep for four minutes.

Step Seven: Gently break the crust formed on top with a spoon (don’t stir!).

Step Eight: Place the plunger on top without pressing through and let it infuse for up to 8 minutes.

Break the coffee crust.
Let the French press coffee steep for a total of 8 minutes.

Step Nine: Slowly place the plunger just above the coffee and fill your drinking glass with cubed ice.

Carefully move the plunger down, right before it touches the coffee.
Fill a serving glass to the brim with cubed ice.

Step Ten: Pour out slowly.

Pour the coffee slowly over ice.
Cute glass filled with French press iced coffee placed next to French press.

Barista Tips

  • Use a coarse grind to avoid over-extraction and bitterness.
  • Experiment with brewing time: Depending on your taste preferences, adjust the brewing time to achieve the desired strength of your coffee.
  • If you don’t have an electric gooseneck kettle, try this easy trick: bring the water to a boil and pour it into another pot or kettle. Transferring the water will cool it down quickly.
  • French press coffee is an experience, and it’s all about slowing down! Do not drink the coffee right away; allow the coffee to cool a moment after pouring it. This helps you avoid painful burns and taste your cup’s true flavor!

Things to Add to Iced Coffee

Flavored Syrups

Vanilla, caramel, hazelnut or even chocolate syrup can add a delightful sweetness and flavor dimension to your coffee.

Homemade Lemon Ginger Syrup
This syrup is super easy to make and pairs perfectly with your cup of Joe! Try it out and you’ll love this tangy coffee additive
Check out this recipe
Preserving bottle filled with delicious lemon ginger syrup.
Brown Sugar Cinnamon Dolce Syrup
Add a touch of sweetness and warmth to your favorite beverages with our homemade cinnamon syrup. Made with brown sugar and cinnamon, this syrup is perfect for lattes, hot chocolate, and more!
Check out this recipe
Preserving bottle filled with delectable brown sugar cinnamon syrup placed in wooden basket filled with cinnamon sticks.
Iced Lavender Oat Milk Latte
Indulge in the refreshing and unique flavors of an iced lavender latte. Made with soothing lavender and creamy milk, this drink is a perfect summer treat.
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous glass filled with iced lavender latte on dark slate plate.

Spices

Sprinkle in some cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a dash of cardamom for a hint of warmth and complexity.

Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte
Sweet and comforting iced cinnamon dolce latte, made with homemade cinnamon dolce syrup, milk, and espresso. Perfect for any occasion!
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous glass filled with iced cinnamon dolce latte. Placed on black slate plate.

Whipped Cream

A dollop of whipped cream on top can make your iced coffee feel extra indulgent.

Three Ingredient Espresso Whipped Cream
Make your coffee topping stand out with this delicious Espresso flavored whipped cream recipe that requires only three ingredients.
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous espresso whipped cream, topping an espresso and served in an medieval glass cup. The delicious texture also makes the espresso whipped cream a feast for the eyes!
Baileys Whipped Cream
Make your coffee topping stand out with this delicious Baileys flavored whipped cream recipe that requires only three ingredients.
Check out this recipe
Baileys Iced Coffee topped with scrumptious Baileys whipped cream.
Maple-flavored Whipped Cream
Make your whipped cream stand out with this cozy maple whipped cream recipe that requires only three ingredients.
Check out this recipe
Blue coffee mug with coffee and maple syrup whipped cream topping. A little overflowing.
Eggnog-flavored Whipped Cream
Make your whipped cream stand out with this festive eggnog whipped cream recipe that requires only three ingredients.
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous mediaeval coffee glass filled with black coffee, topped with eggnog flavored whipped cream. Placed on black slate plate next to a glass of eggnog.
Pumpkin Flavored Whipped Cream
Indulge in the delicious taste of pumpkin flavored whipped cream – the perfect topping for your fall coffee. Try it today!
Check out this recipe
Beautiful pumpkin flavored whipped cream piped on black coffee.

Ice Cream or Gelato

Add a scoop of vanilla or coffee-flavored ice cream or gelato for an extra creamy treat.

Flavored Creamers

Experiment with different flavored creamers like Irish cream, salted caramel creamer, or even pumpkin spice for seasonal flair.

Homemade Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer
Indulge in the delicious flavors of fall with this homemade pumpkin coffee creamer recipe. Add a touch of sweetness and warmth to your morning brew!
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous homemade pumpkin spice creamer in a bottle, placed on green felt next to small pumpkins.
Salted Caramel Coffee Creamer
Indulge in the rich and creamy flavor of salted caramel with our delicious coffee creamer. Add a touch of sweetness to your morning routine!
Check out this recipe
A bottle and a mason jar, filled with scrumptious homemade salted caramel coffee creamer. Placed on wooden board.
Christmas Creamer – 2 Versions
Elevate your coffee experience this holiday season with our homemade Christmas coffee creamer. Indulge in the festive flavors and savor every sip.
Check out this recipe
Delicious Christmas creamer in preserving bottle.
Basic Coffee Creamer
Want to elevate your coffee game? Learn how to make homemade creamer with this simple and delicious recipe. Say goodbye to store-bought creamer forever!
Check out this recipe
Coffee with coffee creamer in mason glass. Surrounded by containers filled with coffee creamer.

Milk Alternatives

Try using almond milk, coconut milk, oat milk, or soy milk for a dairy-free option with a unique flavor profile.

Recipe for Vanilla Iced Coffee
This scrumptious vanilla iced coffee is easy to make with natural ingredients and without any syrup. Homemade vanilla milk offers a delicious plant-based alternative with exceptional flavor. Remember to prepare the milk a day ahead.
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous glass filled with ice cold plant based vanilla iced coffee. Placed on black slate plate.

Flavored Extracts

Add a drop or two of flavored extracts like almond, coconut, or peppermint for a burst of flavor without added sweetness.

Sweeteners

If you prefer your coffee sweeter, consider adding simple syrup, honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar.

Iced Honey Latte
Craving a refreshing and sweet pick-me-up? Try our irresistible iced honey latte, made with smooth espresso and a hint of natural honey. Perfect for sunny days!
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous glasses filled with iced honey latte placed on dark slate plate.
Iced Caramel Latte Recipe
Easy to make iced caramel latte with homemade caramel milk. Make this yummy treat with three ingredients only!
Check out this recipe
Tall, narrow coffee-filled glass, gets filled with ice-cold homemade caramel milk.

Cocoa Powder or Chocolate Shavings

Sprinkle some cocoa powder or chocolate shavings on top for a hint of chocolatey goodness.

Sea Salt

A pinch of sea salt can enhance the flavor of your coffee and balance out sweetness.

Alcohol

For a boozy twist, add a shot of your favorite liqueur like Baileys, Kahlua, or amaretto.

Iced Coffee with Baileys
Indulge in the perfect blend of coffee and Bailey’s, topped with a scrumptious Bailey’s whipped cream. Satisfy your cravings and chill out with this cold treat.
Check out this recipe
Scrumptious Baileys Salted Caramel Whipped Cream as a topping for a delicious Baileys Iced Coffee.
Iced Chocolate Almond Milk Shaken Espresso with a Twist
Create an awesome cocktail, made with Kahlua, almond milk, cocoa, and espresso. A simple and unexpected pleasure!
Check out this recipe
Cocktail glasses filled with delicious iced chocolate almondmilk shaken espresso. A delightful twist on a classic coffee recipe.

Flavored Ice Cubes

Freeze coffee into ice cubes or use flavored ice cubes like milk, coconut water, fruit juice, or even espresso for a refreshing twist.

Iced Coffee with Milk Ice Cubes
This simple recipe makes your iced coffee extra creamy and delicious. Made with frozen milk ice cubes! So gorgeous!
Check out this recipe
Gorgeous image of a high coffee glass, filled with iced coffee. The beautiful snowflake shaped milk ice cubes make this treat even more appealing.

Coconut Flakes

Toasted coconut flakes can add a tropical flair to your iced coffee.

Fruit Purees

Blend in some fresh fruit purees like strawberry, raspberry, or peach for a fruity kick.

Nuts

Crushed or chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts can add texture and flavor complexity to your drink.

Cute glass filled with French press iced coffee placed next to French press.

Gear

  • French Press: I love all types of French presses. French presses range in size from one cup up to ten cups or more, so select a press that suits the number of cups you typically drink.
  • Kitchen ScaleA kitchen scale helps you weigh the correct portion of beans for your brew. Specialized barista scales are ideal because they weigh the grounds to a fraction of a measure and are water proof (which is awesome, when spilling your water or coffee)!
  • Spoon: A teaspoon is more than enough.
  • Serving Glass or Mug
  • Water Filter: A water filter is optional, but filtered water can make or break your coffee. Filtered water causes less wear and tear on your equipment and makes for a better-tasting cup. To filter water easily and inexpensively, try this basic filtering pitcher.
  • Gooseneck Kettle: Baristas love this type of kettle because it offers more control; however, if you do not have one, just use your normal tea kettle.
  • Coffee Grinder
Get ready to explore and fuel up on your coffee cravings and snag yourself some sweet deals! From coffee gear, to coffee beans! You'll find everything here including a sweet discount!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Press Iced Coffee

How long does it take to make French press iced coffee?

The brewing time for French press iced coffee is typically 4 minutes, followed by an additional 8 minutes of infusion time. However, if you’re making French press cold brew, the steeping process can take anywhere from 12-24 hours in the fridge.

Can I use pre-ground coffee for French press iced coffee?

Yes, you can use pre-ground coffee, but it’s recommended to grind your coffee beans fresh for the best flavor. If using pre-ground coffee, aim for a medium-coarse grind.

How do I adjust the strength of my French press iced coffee?

To adjust the strength of your French press iced coffee, you can vary the coffee-to-water ratio. For a stronger brew, use more coffee grounds, and for a milder brew, use fewer grounds.

Can I use flavored coffee beans for French press iced coffee?

Yes, flavored coffee beans can add a unique twist to your French press iced coffee. Just keep in mind that the flavor of the beans may differ depending if you are making a cold brew or hot French press coffee.

Can I store leftover French press iced coffee in the fridge?

Yes, you can store leftover French press iced coffee in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, keep in mind that the flavor may change slightly over time, so it’s best to enjoy it as soon as possible for optimal taste.

Can I sweeten my French press iced coffee with sugar or syrup?

Yes, you can sweeten your French press iced coffee with sugar, syrup, or any other sweetener of your choice. Follow up reading – How much syrup to put into coffee?

More Recipes and Tips You Might Enjoy:

If you make this recipe, let me know how you liked it by ★★★★★ star rating it and leaving a comment below. This would be awesome! You can also sign up for our Newsletter or follow me on Pinterest or Instagram and share your creation with me. Just tag me @coffeewithnora and hashtag #coffeewithnora_recipes, so I don’t miss it.

Cute glass filled with French press iced coffee placed next to French press.

French Press Iced Coffee Recipe

A simple French press iced coffee recipe, using a brew ratio of 1:15. All you need is good coffee, filtered water, and a French press and you are good to go!
5 from 23 votes
Print Pin Rate Save Recipe
Course: Coffee, Cold Beverage, French press coffee
Cuisine: Global cuisine
Keyword: french press, french press coffee, french press coffee ratio, french press iced coffee
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1 Serving

Equipment

Ingredients
 

  • 7.93 oz Water filtered
  • 0.53 oz Coffee beans
  • Cubed Ice

Instructions

  • Heat 7.93 oz Water (225g) to 93°C (200 °F). If you don't have an electric gooseneck kettle, there is a simple trick: bring the water to the boil and pour it into another pot (preferably a tiny gooseneck kettle). Transferring the water will cool it down to the right temperature.
    7.93 oz Water
  • Weigh 0.53 oz Coffee beans (15 g).
    0.53 oz Coffee beans
  • And grind with a medium grind. Optionally, use already-ground coffee.
  • Rinse the French press with hot water. This will bring your French press to the right temperature and prevent the coffee from cooling down too quickly.
  • Place the French Press on the scale, pour in the coffee, and then tare the scale.
  • Start the timer and brew quickly by adding 7.93 oz / 225 g hot water.
  • Leave to stand for 4 minutes, and then break the crust that forms. Do not stir; just carefully press the top layer of foam (crust) into the coffee with a spoon.
  • Place the plunger on top (do not press through) and stop just before the crust.
  • Leave to infuse for up to 8 minutes.
  • Then press the plunger down to just above the coffee.
  • Fill your serving glass with Cubed Ice and slowly pour out the coffee.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Serving | Sodium: 11mg | Calcium: 7mg
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Food Safety

  • Don’t leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
  • Never leave cooking food and beverages unattended
  • Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.

By on April 9th, 2024
Photo of author

About Nora

Nora is a full-blown coffee addict, who loves to make and write about everything that is coffee related. She is currently training to be a barista and loves sharing her knowledge.

More Posts by this author.

5 from 23 votes (23 ratings without comment)

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating