All About Coffee
Recipes· 1 min read

The Classic Iced Latte

Just espresso, cold milk, and ice — the clean, refreshing drink that started iced coffee culture, perfected for home.

House Blend Cafe· 2026-08-20
The Classic Iced Latte

We're a seasonal shop, open Saturdays only.

You'll find us at the counter on Saturdays, from just after Labor Day through the Saturday before Christmas, 10 AM to 2 PM. The rest of the year we're closed. Order ahead and we'll have it waiting, or see hours and location.

Few drinks beat the clean, refreshing simplicity of a classic iced latte. Just espresso, cold milk, and ice — it's the drink that made iced coffee culture what it is today, and once you nail the ratio at home, you may never order one out again.

Why the classic works

The magic is balance. A double shot of espresso brings bold, bittersweet flavor; cold milk adds creaminess and a touch of sweetness; and the ice chills everything down without watering it down too fast — as long as you pour the espresso over the ice.

Ingredients (1 drink)

  • 36–40g espresso (a double shot)
  • 120g ice (about one full glass of cubes)
  • 150ml cold milk (whole, oat, or almond)

How to make it

  1. Pull a double shot of espresso.
  2. Fill a tall glass with ice.
  3. Pour the espresso directly over the ice.
  4. Top with cold milk and stir once or twice.

Pro tips

  • If it tastes thin, reduce the milk to 120ml before changing your shot — milk dilutes more than you think.
  • Use a medium roast with clean, balanced notes; very dark roasts can taste bitter over ice.
  • For a layered look, pour the milk slowly down the side of the glass.

Key takeaways

  • The classic iced latte is just espresso, milk, and ice — let quality ingredients do the work.
  • Always pour espresso over ice for the cleanest flavor.
  • Adjust milk to taste before blaming your beans.
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