Tim Hortons Copycat Iced Cappuccino Recipe

Rich, velvety coffee concentrate blended with ice and milk creates a refreshing, creamy frozen treat that perfectly mimics Tim Hortons' iconic summer beverage.
Difficulty:
Beginner
Prep Time:
10 mins (plus overnight brewing)
Cook Time:
0 mins
Serves:
4 drinks
An overhead shot of a tall, clear glass filled with a caramel-colored iced cappuccino, showing distinctive layers of dark coffee blending into creamy milk when stirred. The glass features condensation droplets catching the soft natural light streaming through a kitchen window. A metal straw protrudes from the drink, surrounded by scattered coffee beans on a weathered wooden tray. In the background, a small pitcher of cream and a jar of coffee concentrate create depth. The drink is topped with a swirl of whipped cream and a light dusting of cocoa powder, creating beautiful color contrast against the rich brown drink beneath.

Ingredients

<ul class="ingredients-main-list"><li class="ingredients-single-item">200g coarsely ground dark roast coffee</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 litre cold water</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">400ml whole milk (or plant-based milk alternative)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">120ml sweetened condensed milk</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tsp vanilla extract</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">800g ice cubes</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">200ml whipped cream, for topping (optional)</li><li class="ingredients-single-item">1 tbsp cocoa powder, for dusting (optional)</li></ul>

Equipment

<ul class="equipment-main-list"><li class="equipment-single-item">Coffee filter or fine mesh sieve</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Large glass jar or container</li><li class="equipment-single-item">Blender</li></ul>
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Directions

<ol class="no-list-style"><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 1</h4>Begin by preparing your coffee concentrate. In a large glass container, combine the coarsely ground coffee with cold water. Stir gently to ensure all coffee grounds are fully saturated. This cold brewing method creates a smoother, less acidic coffee base that's essential for the authentic Tim Hortons flavor profile.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 2</h4>Cover the container and refrigerate for 12-24 hours. The longer brewing time allows for a stronger concentrate, which stands up better to dilution with ice and milk. A full 24-hour brew will give you the richest result.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 3</h4>After brewing, strain the coffee concentrate through a coffee filter or fine mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth. Press gently on the grounds to extract all the liquid. You should have approximately 700ml of rich coffee concentrate. The clarity of your concentrate will affect the smoothness of the final drink.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 4</h4>In your blender, combine 500ml of the coffee concentrate (reserve the remainder for future drinks), condensed milk, vanilla extract, and half of the ice cubes. The condensed milk provides both sweetness and creaminess that's characteristic of the Tim Hortons version.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 5</h4>Blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth and the ice is completely crushed, about 30-45 seconds. Be careful not to over-blend, as this can make the drink too watery rather than slushy.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 6</h4>Add the remaining ice and milk to the blender. Pulse 5-8 times just until combined but still slushy. This two-stage blending creates the perfect texture – not too liquid but not too icy – that mimics the original drink.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 7</h4>Pour immediately into chilled glasses. For the authentic Tim Hortons experience, top with whipped cream and a light dusting of cocoa powder. The contrast between the cold, coffee-flavored slush and the sweet, cream topping creates the perfect balance.</li><li class="MethodStepper"><h4 class="step-title">Step 8</h4>Serve immediately with straws. The drinks will separate slightly as they sit, which is normal – just stir before drinking. For a variation, try adding 1 tablespoon of chocolate syrup to the blender for a mocha version, or a drop of maple extract for a Canadian twist!</li></ol>

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🍽️ Serving Size: 1 serving
🔥 Calories: 230 calories
🥑 Fat: 10 g
🧈 Saturated Fat: 6 g
🍞 Carbohydrates: 32 g
🍭 Sugar: 28 g
🍗 Protein: 4 g
🫀 Cholesterol: 35 mg
🧂 Sodium: 85 mg

Chef’s Notes

A few helpful details for making this recipe.

Can I make this iced cappuccino without a blender?

While a blender creates the ideal slushy texture, you can make a simplified version by vigorously shaking the coffee concentrate, condensed milk, and vanilla in a cocktail shaker with ice, then straining into a glass of milk with ice cubes.

What's the best coffee to use for homemade iced cappuccinos?

A dark or medium-dark roast coffee works best as it provides the robust flavour that stands up to milk and ice. Choose beans with chocolate, caramel or nutty notes rather than fruity or floral profiles for an authentic Tim Hortons taste experience.

How long does homemade coffee concentrate last in the refrigerator?

Properly stored in an airtight container, homemade coffee concentrate will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. This means you can prepare a large batch in advance and enjoy quick iced cappuccinos whenever the craving strikes.

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