All you need to make this favorite German summertime treat is cold coffee, a scoop or two of vanilla ice cream, and a dollop of whipped cream.
Years ago, while I was an exchange student in Hamburg, my German host mom introduced me to one of my favorite warm-weather treats: Eiskaffee, literally “ice cream coffee.” On hot afternoons she would mischievously ask if I wanted a “calorie bomb,” scoop some vanilla ice cream into tall glasses, pour cold coffee over it, and top everything with whipped cream. We would sit in the backyard and savor the simple pleasure together.
Even though Eiskaffee is a chilled drink, the memory of those lazy summer afternoons with my German host mom still feels warm and comforting. The drink itself comes together in minutes and is especially satisfying on a steamy day. As the ice cream softens and melts into the coffee, it creates a silky, lightly sweetened texture that feels indulgent without being fussy.
You can find Eiskaffee at most German ice cream shops and cafés, but there’s something special about making it at home. It’s quick, customizable, and relies on just a few quality ingredients.
What Kind of Coffee Should I Use?
Use whatever coffee or espresso you enjoy, but make sure it’s chilled before assembling your drink. Cold coffee preserves the texture of the ice cream and prevents it from melting too fast.
If you prefer to avoid caffeine later in the day, decaf or low-caf espresso works beautifully — the ice cream provides the sweetness and body, so the coffee primarily contributes flavor. For the best result, freshly brewed coffee that has been cooled in the fridge tastes brighter and cleaner than coffee left at room temperature.
For a classic Eiskaffee, pair a high-quality vanilla ice cream with freshly whipped cream. Serve immediately after putting the drink together, since even cold coffee will soften the ice cream fairly quickly. Traditionally this drink is enjoyed with a long spoon and a straw so you can scoop and sip as the flavors mingle.
Choose a rich vanilla ice cream and freshly whipped cream for the most authentic and satisfying Eiskaffee. Add a sprinkle of chocolate jimmies or a drizzle of chocolate syrup for a finishing touch if you like.
What You Need to Make German Eiskaffee
This is a very simple treat that requires minimal ingredients and tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cold brewed or chilled regular coffee or espresso (about 2–4 cups / 450–900 ml total, depending on how strong you want it)
- High-quality vanilla ice cream (or a dairy-free alternative)
- Whipped cream (or a dairy-free topping)
- Chocolate sprinkles or syrup for topping (optional)
Tools:
- A way to brew coffee and chill it
- Tall glasses
- A long-handled spoon and a straw
- An ice cream scoop
Eiskaffee Recipe: Easy Iced Coffee, German-style
Eiskaffee (German Iced Coffee)
An easy and delicious German summertime treat.
5 minutes
5 minutes
Ingredients
- 2–4 cups (450–900 ml) cold coffee
- 4 scoops high-quality vanilla ice cream
- Whipped cream
- Chocolate sprinkles or syrup
Instructions
- Brew coffee using your preferred method and chill it in the refrigerator until cold.
- Scoop 1–2 generous scoops of vanilla ice cream into each tall glass. Pour cold coffee over the ice cream until the glass is about half to three-quarters full.
- Top each glass with whipped cream and finish with chocolate sprinkles or a drizzle of syrup. Serve immediately with a long spoon and a straw.
Recommended Products
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Reusable BPA-Free Straws -
Fun Paper Straws
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Cold Brew Iced Coffee Maker
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Long Handle Iced Coffee Spoons
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Chocolate Jimmies
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Peet’s Coffee
