Cold Brew Tonic with Orange (Print)

Effervescent cold brew topped with tonic and bright orange zest for a sparkling, citrus-forward chilled drink.

# What you'll need:

→ Base

01 - 6.8 fl oz cold brew coffee, chilled
02 - 6.8 fl oz tonic water, chilled

→ Garnish

03 - Zest of 1 orange (reserve an optional wedge for serving)
04 - Ice cubes

# How To Make It:

01 - Place two serving glasses in the refrigerator or fill them with ice to chill briefly while assembling components.
02 - Divide ice cubes evenly between the two chilled glasses so each is adequately filled.
03 - Pour 3.4 fl oz cold brew coffee into each glass, measured carefully for balance.
04 - Gently pour 3.4 fl oz chilled tonic water over the back of a spoon into each glass to preserve effervescence.
05 - Stir each glass once or twice with a spoon using minimal agitation to blend without flattening the tonic.
06 - Express orange zest over each drink to release oils, garnish with the zest and an optional wedge, and serve immediately while cold and sparkling.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • This coffee tonic feels like a secret summer party in a glass—unexpectedly lively and so easy to make.
  • It's a thirst-quencher with just the right kick and citrusy zing, perfect for when hot coffee is out of the question.
02 -
  • Once I poured the tonic in too fast and the whole thing fizzed over—always add slowly or you’ll lose half your drink.
  • Discovering that orange zest, not just juice, truly lifts the aromatics was a game changer; now I never skip the peel.
03 -
  • If you like a touch of sweetness, a half teaspoon of simple syrup can mellow any bitter edges.
  • Rub the orange zest around the rim—this trick makes every sip smell amazing, not just the first one.
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