At 7:30 AM, sunlight filters through my window, nudging me awake. As I get out of bed, the thought that propels me forward is simple: my morning coffee.
This isn’t just a drink—it’s a ritual. Crafting my perfect iced latte sets the tone for my day. After making one every morning for 3+ years, I’m here to share the essentials of what makes my mornings so special.
The Essentials for My Perfect Iced Latte
1. My Nespresso Machine
Investing in my Nespresso Vertuo was non-negotiable as I prepared for my freshman year at JMU. I snagged it on Amazon Prime Day for $99.99—a steal for what has become my favorite purchase to date. This machine delivers barista-quality espresso right in my kitchen, making it essential to my routine.
2. My Favorite Nespresso Pods
Every great latte starts with the right espresso. My go-to pods are the seasonal Sunny Almond Vanilla. These limited-edition pods boast “A refreshing, thirst-quenching iced coffee with delicious almond and vanilla flavored notes, reminiscent of amaretti and vanilla custard”. Each pod brews a 2.7-ounce double espresso, which Nespresso recommends serving over ice—exactly how I enjoy mine.
3. The Ice
Let’s be real: the standard ice from my college apartment’s freezer isn’t exactly top-tier. But when I’m home, I use large square ice cubes that melt slower, ensuring my latte stays cold without getting watered down. Pro tip: invest in a square ice cube tray for the perfect iced coffee ice.
4. The Milk
I’ve tried them all—almond, oat, soy, and even macadamia nut (which I wouldn’t recommend). But for my everyday latte, I opt for 2% milk. It produces a creamy latte without being too heavy and the lack of almonds or oats allows for the flavor of the espresso to shine. Whole milk? That’s reserved for indulgent trips to my favorite coffee shops.
5. The Sweetener
I’m a minimalist when it comes to sweetness; most mornings, I skip it entirely. However, when I want a touch of indulgence, I add a pinch of brown sugar directly under the espresso stream as it brews. This small step enhances the drink with subtle caramel notes.
The Art of Assembly
Here’s how I create my ideal iced latte every morning:
Brew the Espresso
I start by brewing my Sunny Almond Vanilla pod into my favorite glass cup. Nespresso’s signature frothy crema on top is non-negotiable
Add Milk
Before the espresso finishes brewing, I pour cold 2% milk into the glass. This allows the espresso to cool slightly, preventing the ice from diluting the latte too quickly.
Add Ice
Once the milk and espresso are combined, I add ice cubes until the glass is full.
Finish with a Sprinkle of Cinnamon
As a finishing touch, I dust the top with a pinch of cinnamon for warmth and aroma.
Stir and Sip
Finally, I pop in a glass straw, take my first sip, and let the day begin.
The Morning Magic
This ritual isn’t just about coffee—it’s about setting a tone for the day ahead. Whether you’re a college student like me or just someone who appreciates a good latte, I hope these tips inspire you to create your perfect morning coffee.
Check out my infographic on different espresso drinks! Try making one and comment down below what you try!
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