What It Is
An iced latte is the cold version of a latte. It uses the same ingredients — espresso and milk — served over ice instead of being combined with steamed milk.
What Changes
The temperature changes, but the espresso-to-milk balance remains the same as a hot latte.
Because the drink is cold, the milk is not steamed. Instead, espresso and milk are poured over ice and combine as the drink is stirred or sipped.
Iced lattes are often compared with cold brew. Cold brew is more concentrated and brewed differently, while an iced latte is built from espresso and milk.
How to Order
Standard version
"Can I get an iced latte, please?"
With customization
- "Iced latte with oat milk"
- "Iced latte with one pump vanilla"
- "Iced latte with an extra shot"
Many cafés prepare larger iced lattes with two shots of espresso by default. If you want a lighter drink, you can ask for one shot.
💡 Behind the Cup
An iced latte uses the same ingredients as a hot latte, but the preparation changes how the drink behaves.
Instead of steaming the milk, cold milk and espresso are poured over ice. Many cafés add the milk first, then pour the espresso on top. This helps the espresso cool quickly while blending more evenly into the drink.
📌 Good to Know
Does ice water down an iced latte?
Yes, but more slowly than black coffee. Because an iced latte contains a larger amount of milk, the flavor stays more stable as the ice melts.
If you prefer a stronger taste throughout, ask for light ice or an extra espresso shot.
Try Next
If you want the same drink served hot, try a latte. If you prefer a lighter coffee without as much milk, try iced coffee.