And cafes are responding by innovating iced espresso drinks made with non-dairy alternatives. These creamy, sweet coffee creations deliver an energizing jolt while satisfying demands for inclusivity. Read on to learn about today’s most Instagrammable, non-traditional cold coffee trends.
Over the last few years, iced coffee has taken off as a year-round drink – and not just basic cold brew. Espresso shots poured over ice provide richer flavor as the foundation for next-level nitro brews, refreshing macchiatos, and blended mocha frappes. Topped with everything from sweet cold foam to flavored syrups, these iced espresso drinks tantalize tastebuds when the weather heats up.
But traditional milk isn’t the only creamy addition elevating iced coffee. Non-dairy milks ranging from oat to coconut to almond are making cold drinks more inclusive. These plant-based alternatives mean those avoiding dairy due to preference or intolerances can still enjoy latte-like flavors and textures. And they introduce new nutty, sweet, or subtly coconutty taste dimensions.
Beyond inclusivity, today’s youth gravitate toward plant-based milk’s perceived health halo too. Regardless of proven nutrition benefits, alternatives like oat milk feel fresher and less processed than traditional dairy. This aligns with Gen Z and millennial preferences for transparent sourcing and sustainable production methods.
Using organic ingredients also appeals to young consumers’ ethical sensibilities. Organic coffee and milk sources reassure them that no pesticides or antibiotics contaminated their feel-good drinks. And with cold drinks more popular than ever, leading coffee chains now offer organic options for their iced lattes, mochas, and seasonal specialties.
Even smaller, trendier coffee shops are getting in on organic ingredients – with a uniquely creative twist.
They’re introducing new plant-based milk alternatives like pecan and flax alongside standbys like almond and oat.
Signature organic espresso drinks tempt customers to try these non-traditional combos.
Experimentation runs rampant in preparations too. Customers can now find cold brew on tap, iced Americanos perfect for adding syrups, and textured nitro coffee cascading like a stout beer. Baristas make icy shaken espressos finished with nutty cashew foam – no dairy in sight.
These innovative iced drinks starring espresso look as gorgeous as they taste. And their photogenic qualities make them darlings of social media. Vibrant hues come from fruit purees swirled into coconut milk lattes. Latte art flourishes on frothy cashew milk capping cold brews. It’s foodie Instagram heaven.
Younger generations’ preferences drive growth in icy, non-dairy drinks from progressive cafes. These sippable treats deliver chilled caffeination through smooth nut milks and bold espresso foundations. Their appeal shows no signs of slowing even as the weather warms.
As third wave coffee culture and plant-based diets keep gaining momentum, iced espresso drinks made with oat, almond or other non-dairy milks are poised to rise. Creative, inclusive, and highly ‘grammable, they’re the cool drinks to sip and seen with in 2023.