Cold Brew vs. Iced Coffee: What’s the Real Difference?

Whether you’re a coffee connoisseur or just getting started with your caffeine journey, you’ve likely seen both cold brew and iced coffee on menus and wondered—what’s the actual difference? At Geeky Nana Coffee, we believe your brew should match your mood and lifestyle, so here’s a breakdown to help you choose your perfect chill.

What Is Iced Coffee?

Iced coffee starts hot—just like your regular morning cup—but gets cooled down before it hits your glass.

How it's made:

• Brewed with hot water

• Then chilled or poured over ice

• Typically served with milk, cream, or flavor shots

Flavor:
Bright, bold, and sometimes a little tangy. Iced coffee keeps the bite and acidity of traditional brewing.

Why You’ll Love It:
It’s fast, flavorful, and classic. Perfect when you want your coffee now—but on ice.

What Is Cold Brew?

Cold brew is steeped slowly with cold or room-temperature water—no heat involved.

How it's made:

• Coarse-ground beans soak for 12–24 hours

• Then filtered for a smooth, rich result

• Often brewed as a concentrate

Flavor:
Think mellow, smooth, low-acid, and slightly sweet—naturally!

Why You’ll Love It:
Great for sensitive stomachs or anyone who loves a creamy, smooth coffee without bitterness.

Nana’s Tips for Your Brew

• Want a bolder taste? Go for iced coffee. Try it with a flavor shot like vanilla or hazelnut.

• Want something smoother? Cold brew’s your best bet—add oat milk or maple syrup for a twist.

• Batch tip: Make cold brew in big batches—it stays fresh for up to a week!

Try It With Our Beans!

Both cold brew and iced coffee shine when made with fresh, high-quality beans—and that’s exactly what we roast at Geeky Nana Coffee. Whether you like sweet, chocolatey notes or citrusy brightness, we’ve got the perfect roast for your cold sips.

👉 Shop All Coffees

Quick Comparison Chart