Cold Coffee
Beverages • India
How to Make Cold Coffee (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Cold Coffee, a beloved Indian beverage, is the perfect blend of robust instant coffee, chilled milk, and a hint of sweetness, all whipped together to create a creamy and refreshing drink. This iconic beverage is especially popular during the scorching Indian summers, providing a cooling respite from the heat. Whether you’re seeking a quick energy boost or a delightful treat, Cold Coffee is a staple in Indian homes, cafes, and college canteens. Cold Coffee is often enjoyed as an afternoon refresher or served at festive gatherings such as Holi and summer get-togethers. The Indian version of Cold Coffee is unique for its use of instant coffee (often Nescafé or Bru), and can be personalized with jaggery (gur), low-fat milk (doodh), or even a hint of elaichi (cardamom) for a regional twist. It’s also common to garnish it with a sprinkle of cocoa powder or a scoop of homemade ice cream during special occasions. This healthy Cold Coffee recipe balances authentic flavors while being mindful of calories, making it suitable for daily consumption and festive indulgence alike.
Ingredients(for 1 tall glass (approximately 250ml) per serving)
- 2 teaspoons Instant coffee powder (Nescafé or Bru)
- 2 cups Low-fat milk (doodh) (chilled)
- 2 teaspoons Jaggery powder (gur) or brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 8-10 Ice cubes (baraf)
- 1/4 teaspoon Pure vanilla extract (for enhanced flavor) - optional
- 1/2 teaspoon Cocoa powder (for garnish) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Skimmed milk powder (optional, for extra creaminess) - optional
- 1 tablespoon Chopped nuts (badam or cashew) (for garnish) - optional
Instructions
- 1
In a small bowl, mix the instant coffee powder with 2 tablespoons of warm water to dissolve completely.
2 minutes
Dissolving coffee ensures no lumps and a smooth taste.
- 2
In a blender (or mixie), add the chilled low-fat milk, dissolved coffee mixture, and jaggery powder or brown sugar.
2 minutes
Use chilled milk to ensure the drink stays cold and frothy.
- 3
Add ice cubes and, if using, pure vanilla extract and skimmed milk powder for a creamier texture.
2 minutes
More ice makes the coffee thicker and less sweet.
- 4
Blend at high speed for 30-40 seconds until the mixture is frothy and well combined.
1 minute
Blending longer creates more foam, a signature of Indian Cold Coffee.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Choosing low-fat milk and opting for natural sweeteners like jaggery makes this Cold Coffee lower in calories and healthier than traditional versions loaded with sugar and cream. The recipe avoids heavy cream and ice cream, significantly reducing saturated fat and calorie content. It’s a satisfying, energy-boosting beverage that fits well into a weight management or diabetic-friendly diet when sweetener is adjusted, making it a smart choice for health-conscious individuals.
This Cold Coffee recipe is made with low-fat milk, offering a good source of protein and calcium while keeping fat content low. Using jaggery instead of refined sugar provides trace minerals like iron and potassium. The beverage contains moderate carbohydrates for energy and minimal added fats, especially when prepared without ice cream. Including nuts as garnish adds healthy fats and vitamin E, beneficial for heart health. The drink is hydrating and contains antioxidants from coffee, making it suitable for a balanced diet.
Pro Tips
- 💡Use freshly boiled water to dissolve coffee for a stronger flavor.
- 💡Blend with ice for a thicker, café-style texture.
- 💡For extra creaminess without extra calories, add a tablespoon of skimmed milk powder.
Storage & Serving
Best consumed immediately. If needed, store in a covered jug in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Blend again before serving to restore frothiness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 150.0 kcal |
