Summer calls for cool, refreshing drinks, and nothing beats a perfectly brewed iced coffee to beat the heat. With the Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker, you can easily craft custom cold brews or iced coffees right in your kitchen or outdoor space.
This guide walks you through a simple, practical method to create delicious iced coffee, perfect for sipping poolside, in your greenhouse, or on your patio. Let’s dive into the step-by-step process to make your summer coffee experience truly exceptional.
Our top pick at a glance
Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker
- ✔ Power: 1500W
- ✔ Dimensions: 10 x 14 x 16 inches
- ✔ Weight: 12 pounds
Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker with Rapid Cold Brew, Black, CM371
- Brew Styles: 4 styles: Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Cold Brew
- Iced Coffee: Bold, non-watering iced coffee
- Cold Brew: Fresh cold brew in 10 minutes
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Preparing Your Coffee Base
Start by selecting your preferred coffee beans—medium roast works well for a balanced flavor, but you can experiment with darker or lighter roasts for different tastes. Using the Ninja Hot & Iced XL, choose the ‘Cold Brew’ setting for a smooth, full-bodied base or opt for the ‘Iced Coffee’ style for a quicker brew.
Fill the machine’s removable reservoir with fresh, filtered water, then add your coffee grounds to the permanent filter. For a stronger iced coffee, use a bit more coffee grounds than usual—about 1 to 2 tablespoons per 6 ounces of water.
Press start, and let the machine brew directly into the carafe or your preferred mug.
Cooling and Serving Your Iced Coffee
Once the brewing cycle is complete, pour the hot brewed coffee into a pitcher or large jar. Place it in your freezer for about 20-30 minutes, or until chilled but not frozen solid. Alternatively, you can pour the hot coffee over a glass filled with ice, but cooling it first ensures a less watered-down drink.
For a creamier texture, add milk, cream, or your favorite dairy-free alternative. Sweeten to taste with simple syrup, honey, or flavored syrups. Stir well to combine.
Serve over ice in a tall glass or travel mug, perfect for outdoor sipping or garden lounging.
Tips for the Perfect Summer Iced Coffee
- Use fresh, cold water to ensure the best flavor extraction.
- Adjust the coffee-to-water ratio for a stronger or milder brew.
- Experiment with flavor add-ins like vanilla, cinnamon, or caramel for a personalized touch.
- Store brewed coffee in the fridge for up to 24 hours for quick refreshes.
- Clean your Ninja machine regularly to maintain optimal taste and performance.
More Details on Our Top Picks
Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker
The Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker simplifies summer coffee brewing with versatile settings and a large capacity. Perfect for making refreshing iced coffees or cold brews in your garden or outdoor space.
Pros:
- Multiple brew styles including cold brew and iced coffee
- Large 12-cup carafe and 8 size options
- Removable reservoir for easy filling
- Permanent filter reduces waste and cost
Cons:
- Can be bulky for small kitchens or spaces
- Brewing times for cold brew are longer
- Requires regular cleaning for best performance
Best for: Home baristas and coffee lovers who enjoy summer iced drinks
Not ideal for: Those seeking a compact or single-use coffee maker
Bottom line: A versatile, easy-to-use coffee maker perfect for refreshing summer drinks.
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are accurate as of the time of publishing.
