How to Use Folgers Instant Coffee for Iced Coffee

By Folgerscoffee | Published: 2026-10-21

Category: How-to Guides

Learn how to make refreshing iced coffee using Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals. Follow these simple steps for a smooth, cold coffee drink that's perfect for summer.

Quick Answer

Use Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals to make iced coffee by dissolving them in a small amount of hot water, then pouring over ice and adding milk or sweetener to taste.

Why Instant Coffee Works Best for Iced Coffee

Instant coffee crystals dissolve completely in hot water, creating a concentrated coffee base that won't get diluted when poured over ice. This makes Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals an excellent choice for iced coffee because you control the strength without worrying about watery results.

Unlike brewed coffee that needs to cool down first, instant coffee lets you make a single serving of iced coffee in under two minutes. The medium roast flavor of Folgers Classic Roast provides a smooth, familiar taste that works well with milk, cream, or your favorite syrup.

Choosing the Right Coffee-to-Water Ratio

The key to great instant iced coffee is using enough coffee crystals so the flavor stands up to the ice. A good starting point is 2 teaspoons of Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals per 1/4 cup of hot water. This creates a concentrated base that remains bold even after melting ice.

If you prefer a stronger coffee flavor, increase to 1 tablespoon of crystals. For a milder drink, reduce to 1.5 teaspoons. Adjust based on your taste and the size of your glass.

Steps to Make Iced Coffee with Folgers Instant Coffee

Boil water and measure coffee: Heat 1/4 cup of water until hot but not boiling (about 200°F). Measure 2 teaspoons of Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals into a heatproof mug or glass. Using too little hot water makes the crystals hard to dissolve; too much dilutes the concentrate.
Dissolve the crystals completely: Pour the hot water over the coffee crystals and stir vigorously for about 15-20 seconds until no granules remain. The mixture should look dark and uniform. Undissolved crystals will leave gritty bits in your drink, so stir thoroughly.
Add sweetener and flavorings: If using sugar, honey, or syrup, stir it into the hot coffee concentrate now so it dissolves evenly. Add vanilla extract, cinnamon, or other flavorings at this stage. Sweeteners dissolve better in hot liquid than cold, so add them before the ice.
Fill a glass with ice: Fill a tall glass with ice cubes. Use large cubes or ice spheres to slow melting and keep your drink from getting watery too quickly. Crushed ice melts faster and can dilute the coffee flavor before you finish drinking.
Pour the concentrate over ice: Slowly pour the hot coffee concentrate over the ice. The ice will cool it instantly, creating a refreshing iced coffee. Pouring too fast can splash; tilt the glass and pour against the ice for less mess.
Add milk or cream and stir: Add 1/2 cup of cold milk, cream, or a dairy alternative. Stir gently to combine. Taste and adjust sweetness or strength as desired. Adding milk first can prevent the concentrate from mixing evenly; pour it after the concentrate is on the ice.

Product Used in This Guide

Folgers 20083 Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals, 3 Ounces, 100% Pure Coffee, Medium Roast, Easy-open Flip Top Lid, Portable Plastic Jar, Pack of 24: Folgers Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals deliver the rich, smooth flavor you expect from a trusted name in coffee. This 3-ounce portable plastic jar features an easy-open flip top lid, making it convenient for home, office, or on-the-go use. The flip-top lid keeps the crystals fresh and makes it easy to scoop the right amount for your iced coffee, whether you're at home or traveling.
Folgers 20083 Classic Roast Instant Coffee Crystals, 3 Ounces, 100% Pure Coffee, Medium Roast, Easy-open Flip Top Lid, Portable Plastic Jar, Pack of 24