Coconut Cardamom Iced Coffee

Cook Time: 3 minutes

This refreshing Coconut Cold Brew Coffee combines the richness of coconut milk with the bold flavor of cold brew coffee, creating a delicious and unique beverage. Perfect for hot summer days or as a special treat anytime!

Ingredients

• 2 teaspoons unsweetened coconut flakes
• 1 pinch ground cardamom
• 14 ounces Gevalia Cold Brew Concentrate - House Blend
• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1 (14 ounce) can light coconut milk
• 1 teaspoon coconut extract, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon white sugar, or to taste
• 1 tray ice cubes

Directions

1. In a small pan over medium heat, combine coconut flakes and a pinch of ground cardamom. Stir constantly for 3 to 4 minutes until the flakes are lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In a blender, combine the cold brew concentrate, 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom, coconut milk, coconut extract, and white sugar (or sweetener of your choice). Blend for 5 to 6 seconds until everything is thoroughly mixed.
3. Fill 3 large glasses halfway with ice cubes.
4. Pour the coffee mixture into the glasses, dividing it evenly.
5. Top each glass with the toasted coconut flakes that you prepared earlier.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your coconut-infused cold brew coffee!

Cook's Note

You can replace the white sugar with any sweetener of your choice. For a more natural option, consider using coconut sugar, honey, or maple syrup. I personally enjoy my coffee without any added sugar, but feel free to adjust to your taste.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	287
Total Fat	29g
Saturated Fat	26g
Sodium	49mg
Total Carbohydrates	8g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	2g
Protein	3g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	29mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	302mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of Coconut Cardamom Iced Coffee

The Coconut Cardamom Iced Coffee is a modern twist on traditional iced coffee, incorporating the tropical flavors of coconut and the aromatic spice of cardamom. Cardamom has a long history in coffee cultures, especially in regions like the Middle East, where it is often used to flavor coffee blends. Coconut, on the other hand, has been a staple in tropical regions for centuries. The combination of these two ingredients creates a refreshing, sweet, and aromatic drink that captures the essence of summer. This drink is especially popular in cafes that focus on creative, artisanal coffee beverages, blending international flavors with the universal appeal of iced coffee.

Regional Variations

While the exact origin of Coconut Cardamom Iced Coffee is unclear, the use of cardamom in coffee is common in many countries, particularly in Scandinavian and Middle Eastern cultures. In Sweden, for example, cardamom is a beloved spice used not only in pastries but also in coffee. Coconut, meanwhile, is more often associated with tropical regions, such as Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. This drink may not be traditional to any one region but rather reflects a fusion of global flavors that have become increasingly popular in contemporary coffee culture.

Differences from Similar Drinks

What sets Coconut Cardamom Iced Coffee apart from other iced coffee drinks is its unique combination of coconut milk and cardamom. While many iced coffees are simply brewed coffee served cold or blended with milk and ice, this drink incorporates toasted coconut flakes and ground cardamom, giving it a warm, spiced flavor profile. The use of coconut milk instead of dairy milk makes it a perfect option for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer non-dairy alternatives. Additionally, the toasted coconut topping adds a satisfying texture and extra depth of flavor that you don't typically find in traditional iced coffee beverages.

Where It Is Typically Served

Coconut Cardamom Iced Coffee is commonly served in trendy coffee shops, especially those focusing on unique or specialty coffee drinks. Its exotic flavor profile makes it popular in cafes that feature international or fusion-style beverages. It's also a favorite at brunch spots or casual cafes that cater to customers looking for something refreshing and different from the standard iced latte or cold brew. This drink is perfect for summer months but can be enjoyed year-round as a treat that brings a bit of tropical flavor to any season.

Interesting Facts

• Cardamom is known as the "queen of spices" and has been used in coffee for centuries in countries like Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and India. In fact, cardamom coffee is a staple in many Middle Eastern cultures.
• The combination of cardamom and coconut in this drink evokes the flavors of traditional Indian sweets, where these two ingredients are often paired together in desserts and chai tea.
• Gevalia Cold Brew Concentrate, used in this recipe, is a popular brand that has gained recognition for its high-quality coffee products, making it an ideal choice for cold brew-based drinks like this one.
• Unlike traditional hot coffee, cold brew coffee is steeped in cold water for an extended period, resulting in a smoother, less acidic coffee flavor, which pairs beautifully with the sweet coconut milk and spice of cardamom.

FAQ about Coconut Cardamom Iced Coffee

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