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>