How to Make Vanilla-Flavored Iced Coffee

When you need your daily caffeine fix, but you crave something more than your regular cup of joe, consider making vanilla iced coffee—especially if you have a sweet tooth. Vanilla-flavored iced coffee is simply iced coffee with the addition of vanilla simple syrup and a bit of cream or milk. In this recipe we'll show you how to make your own vanilla-infused simple syrup (it's so easy) so that you'll have a batch on hand for whenever you want to make this drink. See, you don't have to spend the big bucks at a local coffee cafe anymore!

If you're planning in advance, consider making a batch of cold brewed coffee to have on hand. Cold-brew offers a smoother, sweeter flavor than regular brew.

Otherwise, prepare a cup of coffee, either using a French press or a regular drip machine, and then pour the coffee over ice. You can also use espresso for a stronger drink.

First, you'll want to scrape the vanilla bean. Using a small paring knife, slice the vanilla bean in half lengthwise, leaving one end attached. Using the flat, non-sharp side of the blade, scrape out the seeds from both sides.

Place the water, sugar, seeds, and scraped vanilla bean in a medium saucepan (if using vanilla extract, add it here instead of the bean and seeds). Place over medium-heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook until the sugar has dissolved, and then give it an extra minute or two before removing from the heat.

Allow the syrup to cool. Once the syrup has cooled, gently whisk any clumps of seeds to help separate them.

Pour the syrup through a fine mesh strainer to remove the bean and any larger clumps of vanilla that still remain.

Fill a large cup with ice. Stir in the coffee, cream, and 1–2 tablespoons of the vanilla syrup. Serve immediately.