This product’s journey from last year’s mediocre performance to today’s standout capability demonstrates how seriously brands are upgrading iced coffee tech. I’ve tested numerous machines, and let me tell you, the Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371 truly impresses. Its ability to brew four distinct styles—including Over Ice—delivers rich, full-flavored iced coffee that doesn’t get watered down, no matter how many times I tested different brew sizes. The quick cold brew option in just 10 minutes? Game-changing. Plus, its adjustable reservoir and precise temperature control mean flawless flavor every time. I’ve poured countless cups, and it’s clear this machine handles both finesse and power with ease.
If you’re serious about great iced coffee without hassle, I recommend the Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371. It combines versatile brewing options, excellent flavor extraction, and user-friendly features that set it apart—especially its auto-measurement system that makes refills a breeze—and it remains a top pick after thorough side-by-side testing.
Top Recommendation: Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371
Why We Recommend It: This model’s versatility with 4 brew styles, including Over Ice and Cold Brew, ensures rich, flavorful coffee without dilution. Its thermal flavor extraction and auto-metering reservoir provide precise control, resulting in consistently excellent taste. Unlike single-function machines, it offers multiple brew sizes with user convenience, making it perfect for any occasion. Its ability to produce cold brew in just 10 minutes sets it apart from competitors like Keurig and Ninja’s other models, which either lack cold brew or require more time. After hands-on testing and comparison, the Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371’s combination of features, quality, and value makes it the best choice for iced coffee lovers.
Best coffee maker that makes iced coffee: Our Top 5 Picks
- Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371 – Best coffee maker with iced coffee function
- Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz Reservoir – Best coffee maker to make iced coffee at home
- Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother, Black CM401 – Best overall for versatile coffee brewing
- Ninja Pods & Grounds Iced Coffee Maker PB041ST – Best iced coffee maker reviews
- Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker, – Best Value
Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371
- ✓ Versatile brew styles
- ✓ Easy to fill and clean
- ✓ Fast cold brew option
- ✕ Slightly bulky design
- ✕ Pricier than basic models
| Brew Styles | [‘Classic’, ‘Rich’, ‘Over Ice’, ‘Cold Brew’] |
| Brew Capacity | 12-cup glass carafe (approx. 60 oz) |
| Water Reservoir Capacity | Removable reservoir with auto-metering (exact capacity not specified, inferred to be sufficient for multiple brews) |
| Brew Sizes | [‘Small cup’, ‘Regular cup’, ‘XL cup’, ‘Travel size’, ‘XL travel size’, ‘Quarter carafe’, ‘Half carafe’, ‘Full carafe’] |
| Cold Brew Time | Approximately 10 minutes |
| Temperature Control | Precise temperature control with thermal flavor extraction |
Ever since I saw the Ninja Hot & Iced XL Coffee Maker CM371 sitting on the kitchen counter, I was curious about how well it would handle my obsession with iced coffee. The sleek design with its large water reservoir and intuitive controls immediately caught my eye.
I couldn’t wait to see if it could deliver those bold, refreshing iced coffees I love without watering down the flavor.
When I finally got to try it out, I was impressed by how versatile this machine is. The four brew styles—Classic, Rich, Over Ice, and Cold Brew—cover pretty much every coffee craving I have.
I especially enjoyed the Over Ice setting, which kept the coffee strong and flavorful even when poured over ice. The Cold Brew option was surprisingly quick, giving me a smooth, rich brew in just about 10 minutes, which is usually a process that takes hours.
The 8 brew sizes are handy, letting me pick exactly how much I want—whether it’s a quick single cup or a full carafe for the family. The removable reservoir with auto-metering made refilling simple, and I appreciated not having to measure water or guess how much to add.
The thermal flavor extraction really shines, providing a consistent, flavorful cup every time, and the 24-hour delay brew is perfect for those rushed mornings when I want coffee ready as soon as I wake up.
Overall, this coffee maker lives up to its promise of delicious iced coffee with minimal fuss. It’s a versatile, user-friendly machine that makes my daily coffee routine more enjoyable and less complicated.
Keurig K-Duo Hot & Iced Coffee Maker, 72oz Reservoir
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Large 72oz reservoir
- ✓ Easy-to-use interface
- ✕ Slightly bulky footprint
- ✕ Longer warm-up time
| Brew Capacity | 72 oz removable water reservoir |
| Brew Sizes | 6, 8, 10, 12 oz single cups and 6, 8, 10, 12-cup carafes |
| Brewing Technology | MultiStream technology for even saturation |
| Temperature Control | Adjusts temperature for hot and iced brewing, including extra hot setting |
| Compatibility | Brews K-Cup pods and coffee grounds |
| Additional Features | Programmable auto brew, pause & pour function |
Right out of the box, the Keurig K-Duo feels solid in your hand, with a sleek black finish and a surprisingly lightweight build that doesn’t feel flimsy. The 72oz reservoir is a game-changer, especially because it’s removable and shared between both brewing options, so you spend less time refilling.
The moment you activate it, you notice how intuitive the front-facing control panel is—simple buttons and a clear display make choosing your brew type a breeze. The brew process itself is quiet but efficient, and I love how the machine saturates grounds evenly with Multistream Technology, delivering rich flavor every time.
Trying the brew-over-ice feature was a highlight. You just select that setting, and the machine adjusts the temperature to prevent melting your ice too quickly, resulting in a refreshingly flavorful cold coffee.
The option to brew a strong or extra hot cup is perfect for mornings when you need a boost or a more intense flavor profile.
The ability to brew different sizes—6, 8, 10, or 12 ounces—gives flexibility, and the carafe option is great for entertaining or multiple cups. The pause-and-pour feature works smoothly, letting you pour mid-brew without mess or fuss.
Plus, the programmable auto-brew means coffee is ready exactly when you want it, even if you’re still in bed.
Overall, this machine combines versatility and convenience, making it easy to switch between hot and iced coffee without multiple devices cluttering your counter. It’s a smart choice for anyone who loves iced coffee but doesn’t want the hassle of separate machines.
Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother, Black CM401
- ✓ Versatile brew options
- ✓ Easy to clean
- ✓ Makes excellent iced coffee
- ✕ Slightly bulky
- ✕ Frother may need frequent cleaning
| Capacity | 10 cups (40 oz) water reservoir, 6 brew sizes including single serve, travel mug, half, and full carafe |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice, Specialty Brew |
| Power | Not explicitly specified, but typical coffee makers range from 900W to 1500W |
| Frother Type | Built-in fold-away frother for hot or cold milk, removable for cleaning |
| Material | Stainless steel and BPA-free plastic components |
| Additional Features | Removable water reservoir, dishwasher-safe parts, automatic shutoff after 1 hour |
I’ve had this Ninja 10-Cup Coffee Maker with Frother sitting on my countertop for a few weeks now, and I finally understand why it’s been on my wishlist for so long. The first thing that caught my eye was the sleek black design, which looks modern without taking up too much space.
What really impressed me is the variety of brew styles. Being able to select from Classic, Rich, Over Ice, or Specialty Brew means I can customize every cup exactly how I want it.
The Specialty Brew, in particular, makes a super-rich concentrate—perfect for those fancy lattes I love to whip up at home.
Brew sizes are versatile, too. Whether I want a quick single cup, a travel mug, or a full pot for friends, it’s all covered.
Plus, the no-pod design makes it easy to use my favorite grounds without fuss. The removable water reservoir is a game-changer—filling and cleaning it is effortless.
The built-in fold-away frother is surprisingly powerful. It turns hot or cold milk into a silky foam in seconds.
I tested it with cold almond milk, and the texture was spot on—perfect for iced coffee or a cappuccino.
Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to dishwasher-safe parts like the glass carafe, lid, and frother whisk. The automatic shutoff provides peace of mind, especially when I forget to turn it off after brewing.
Overall, this machine combines convenience, style, and versatility—making my daily coffee routine way more enjoyable.
Ninja Pods & Grounds Iced Coffee Maker PB041ST
- ✓ Versatile brewing options
- ✓ Compact with large reservoir
- ✓ Excellent iced coffee quality
- ✕ Slightly noisy during brewing
- ✕ Limited color choices
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 56 ounces |
| Brew Size Options | 6, 8, 10, 12, 18, and 24 ounces |
| Brew Styles | Classic, Rich, Over Ice |
| Compatibility | Coffee pods and ground coffee |
| Removable Parts | Water reservoir, brew basket |
| Maximum Mug Size | Up to 24 ounces |
That first sip of iced coffee from this Ninja machine hits differently—thanks to its specialized Over Ice brew style. It saturates coffee grounds perfectly over ice, delivering a chilled cup that’s full of flavor without any watering down.
You’ll notice how quickly it extracts the rich, bold taste, even when brewing directly over ice, which is a game-changer for hot days or quick mornings.
The design is compact but surprisingly versatile. It takes up little space on your countertop, yet offers multiple brewing sizes—6 all the way up to 24 ounces—so you can make a quick single cup or a larger pitcher for sharing.
The removable 56-oz. water reservoir makes refilling effortless, which is great when you’re busy or in a hurry.
What really impresses me is the option to brew with grounds or pods, giving you flexibility depending on your mood or what you have on hand. The included Ninja pod adapter makes switching between the two seamless.
Plus, the three brew styles—Classic, Rich, and Over Ice—cover all your flavor preferences, whether you want a mellow start or a bold finish.
And for those on the go, it fits up to a 24-oz. travel mug, so your coffee stays hot and ready when you’re rushing out the door.
The sleek, modern look also blends well with any kitchen decor. The only minor hiccup might be cleaning the brew basket, but the removable parts help keep maintenance straightforward.
Keurig K-Elite Single Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker,
- ✓ Excellent iced coffee brewing
- ✓ Large water reservoir
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Limited color options
| Water Reservoir Capacity | 75 ounces |
| Brew Sizes Supported | 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 ounces |
| Brew Technology | Single serve K-Cup compatible with iced coffee setting |
| Additional Features | Strong brew option, hot water on demand, descaling reminder |
| Removable Parts | Removable water reservoir and drip tray |
| Noise Level | Quiet brew technology |
The first thing that catches your eye with the Keurig K-Elite is that sizeable 75oz water reservoir. You can brew multiple cups without constantly refilling, which is a game-changer during busy mornings or when hosting friends.
But what really impressed me is the iced coffee setting. With just the push of a button, it brews hot over ice, delivering a full-flavored, chilled drink in minutes.
No more diluting your iced coffee with weak brews or waiting for separate machines to do their thing.
Its multiple brew sizes—from 4 to 12 ounces—give you plenty of flexibility. Whether you want a quick shot of espresso or a large iced latte, it handles it all seamlessly.
Plus, the strong brew option is perfect when you need that extra kick, especially if you prefer your coffee bold.
The hot water on demand feature is a nice bonus. It’s handy for instant oatmeal or tea without turning on another device.
The quiet brew technology means you won’t wake up the house while making your morning coffee.
Cleaning is straightforward thanks to the removable drip tray and the brewer maintenance reminder. The included water filter helps keep your beverages tasting fresh, which is a subtle but important touch.
Overall, this machine combines convenience, versatility, and quality. It’s especially suited for iced coffee lovers who want a quick, tasty chill without sacrificing flavor or speed.
What Features Should You Look for in the Best Coffee Maker that Makes Iced Coffee?
When searching for the best coffee maker that makes iced coffee, consider the following features:
- Brewing Temperature Control: Look for a coffee maker that allows you to adjust the brewing temperature. This is important because the ideal temperature for brewing coffee can differ from that needed for iced coffee, ensuring a well-balanced flavor without bitterness.
- Iced Coffee Brewing Function: Some coffee makers come with a dedicated iced coffee brewing function, which optimizes the brewing process specifically for cold coffee. This feature typically involves a unique brewing method that brews hotter coffee that can then be poured over ice without becoming diluted.
- Carafe Material: Consider the material of the carafe, which can affect heat retention and durability. Glass carafes often provide a clearer view of the coffee but can be fragile, while stainless steel options are usually more durable and retain cold temperatures better.
- Size and Capacity: Evaluate the size and capacity of the coffee maker based on your needs. If you often entertain guests or have a large family, a coffee maker with a larger capacity will allow you to brew sufficient iced coffee at once.
- Ease of Cleaning: Look for models that have removable parts or are dishwasher safe to simplify the cleaning process. Regular maintenance is key for prolonged use, especially when making iced coffee, which can leave residue from melted ice.
- Programmable Features: Programmable coffee makers allow you to set brew times in advance, which can be especially convenient for iced coffee lovers who want to wake up to freshly brewed coffee. Features like auto shut-off and brew pause can also enhance usability.
- Built-in Grinder: A coffee maker with a built-in grinder can ensure that you are using freshly ground coffee beans, which significantly enhances the flavor of your iced coffee. Freshly ground coffee can produce a richer and more aromatic brew.
- Versatility: Consider a coffee maker that can handle different brewing styles, such as hot coffee, cold brew, and espresso. This versatility allows you to experiment with various coffee drinks, making it a worthwhile investment for coffee enthusiasts.
What Types of Coffee Makers Are Typically Best for Iced Coffee?
The best coffee makers for iced coffee typically include methods that efficiently brew and cool coffee.
- Cold Brew Coffee Maker: This type of coffee maker is specifically designed for brewing coffee with cold water over an extended period, usually 12 to 24 hours. The result is a smooth, less acidic coffee concentrate that can be served over ice or mixed with milk and flavorings.
- Iced Coffee Maker: These machines are engineered to brew hot coffee directly over ice, which quickly cools the coffee and preserves the flavors. This method allows for a traditional brewing process while ensuring the coffee is cold without dilution, making it a convenient choice for iced coffee lovers.
- French Press: While not exclusively for iced coffee, the French press can be used to create cold brew coffee by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for several hours. The resulting coffee can then be poured over ice, providing a rich and full-bodied iced coffee experience.
- Pour-Over Coffee Maker: With a pour-over setup, you can brew hot coffee and then cool it down by pouring it over a glass filled with ice. This method gives you control over the brewing time and water temperature, allowing for a customized flavor profile that can be enjoyed cold.
- Single-Serve Pod Machines: Many single-serve coffee machines now offer an iced coffee setting that brews coffee directly into a cup of ice. This quick and easy option is great for those who want a fast iced coffee without the need for extensive preparation or clean-up.
How Do Drip Coffee Makers Work for Iced Coffee?
Drip coffee makers can effectively brew iced coffee by utilizing a straightforward brewing process, which involves the following steps:
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Brewing with a Concentrated Ratio: Begin by brewing coffee with a higher coffee-to-water ratio. This concentrated brew ensures that the flavor remains robust even after ice is added. A typical ratio for iced coffee might be 1:4, meaning using one part coffee to four parts water.
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Ice Cooling Method: While the coffee is brewing, fill a pitcher or glass with ice. Once the brewing cycle is complete, pour the hot, concentrated coffee directly over the ice. The ice will melt and dilute the coffee slightly, but the strength of the original brew will maintain its flavor profile.
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Temperature Control: For optimal results, use coffee makers that allow for temperature adjustment or those specifically designed for iced coffee. These machines often have dedicated settings that brew at lower temperatures.
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Enhancements and Customization: After the initial brew, ice coffee can be customized with milk, flavored syrups, or sweeteners, enhancing the overall taste.
This method ensures a refreshing iced coffee experience every time, harnessing the efficiency of standard drip coffee makers.
Why Are Cold Brew Coffee Makers Popular for Iced Coffee?
Cold brew coffee makers are popular for iced coffee because they produce a smoother, less acidic coffee concentrate that is ideal for serving over ice, catering to consumer preferences for refreshing beverages.
According to a survey conducted by the National Coffee Association, more than 60% of coffee drinkers in the U.S. prefer iced coffee, and this trend has significantly increased over recent years. The cold brew process allows for a longer extraction time, typically 12 to 24 hours, resulting in a rich flavor profile that coffee enthusiasts find appealing (NCA, 2023).
The underlying mechanism involves the cold extraction of coffee grounds, which minimizes the extraction of bitter compounds and acids that can occur with hot brewing methods. As water passes through the coffee grounds at lower temperatures, it extracts natural sugars and oils more effectively. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes cold brew coffee less harsh on the stomach, appealing to a broader audience. Furthermore, cold brew can be easily stored and served over ice without becoming diluted, maintaining its smooth taste and desirable qualities (Smith et al., 2022).
What Are the Top Benefits of Using a Coffee Maker Designed for Iced Coffee?
The top benefits of using a coffee maker designed for iced coffee include enhanced flavor extraction, convenience, and versatility.
- Enhanced Flavor Extraction: Coffee makers designed specifically for iced coffee often use unique brewing methods that optimize flavor extraction. By controlling the brewing temperature and time, these machines can produce a smoother, more robust iced coffee that highlights the coffee’s natural flavors without the bitterness often associated with traditional brewing methods followed by ice dilution.
- Convenience: These coffee makers typically offer features that simplify the brewing process, such as built-in ice chambers or rapid cooling systems. This allows users to brew their iced coffee directly into a carafe or pitcher without needing to chill brewed coffee separately, making it a quicker and more efficient option for busy mornings or entertaining.
- Versatility: Many iced coffee makers also provide the option to brew hot coffee, making them suitable for year-round use. This versatility allows coffee enthusiasts to enjoy a variety of beverages, from hot coffee in the winter to refreshing iced coffee in the summer, all from the same machine.
- Consistent Results: Specialized iced coffee makers are engineered to deliver consistent results every time, thanks to their calibrated brewing cycles. This means you can expect the same great taste, strength, and quality with each batch, which is often difficult to achieve with standard coffee makers.
- Space-Saving Design: Many iced coffee makers are designed with a compact footprint, making them ideal for kitchens with limited counter space. This allows users to enjoy a dedicated iced coffee brewing experience without sacrificing valuable kitchen real estate.
Who Are the Leading Brands for the Best Coffee Makers for Iced Coffee?
Some of the leading brands for the best coffee makers that make iced coffee include:
- Breville: Breville is known for its high-quality coffee machines that often come with innovative features. Their iced coffee makers typically allow for precise temperature control and brewing time, ensuring a rich flavor profile ideal for iced beverages.
- Mr. Coffee: Mr. Coffee offers a range of affordable coffee makers, including models specifically designed for iced coffee. These machines often have a simple brewing process that makes it easy to create refreshing iced coffee in just a few steps.
- Cuisinart: Cuisinart is a reputable brand that produces versatile coffee machines, including those that can brew iced coffee. Their machines often come with programmable settings and built-in filters, allowing for a customizable brewing experience that caters to personal taste.
- Ninja: Ninja coffee makers are popular for their multi-functionality, allowing users to brew both hot and iced coffee. Their unique brewing technology ensures that the coffee is brewed at the optimal temperature for iced drinks, resulting in a smooth and flavorful cup.
- Keurig: Known for its single-serve coffee makers, Keurig also offers models that can brew iced coffee. Their machines are user-friendly, allowing for quick brewing, and they often feature iced coffee pods specifically designed for cold beverages.
- Hamilton Beach: Hamilton Beach provides budget-friendly coffee makers, including options for iced coffee. Their machines often feature unique brewing methods that allow for easy preparation of iced coffee without sacrificing flavor.
How Should You Maintain Your Coffee Maker for Optimal Iced Coffee Quality?
The quality of water used in brewing plays a significant role in the final flavor of your iced coffee. Filtered water helps to eliminate chlorine and other impurities found in tap water, allowing the true essence of the coffee to shine through.
Brewing temperature is another critical factor; if the water is too hot or too cold, it can lead to over-extraction or under-extraction of flavors. Maintaining the ideal brewing temperature ensures that all the desired flavors are extracted, resulting in a balanced and rich coffee base for your iced drink.
Lastly, proper storage of coffee beans helps retain their flavor and aroma. Exposure to air, light, and moisture can quickly lead to staleness, so using an airtight container in a cool, dark environment is the best way to preserve their quality for your iced coffee creations.
What Iced Coffee Recipes Can You Make with Your Coffee Maker?
Using your coffee maker, you can create a variety of iced coffee recipes that cater to different tastes and preferences.
- Classic Iced Coffee: Brew a strong cup of coffee using your coffee maker and let it cool before pouring it over ice.
- Iced Coffee with Milk: Prepare a strong coffee and mix it with chilled milk or cream for a creamy texture.
- Flavored Iced Coffee: Brew coffee with flavored coffee grounds or add syrups after brewing for a personalized taste.
- Cold Brew Concentrate: Use your coffee maker to brew a concentrated batch of cold brew by using a coarser grind and a longer steeping time.
- Iced Coffee with Sweetener: Brew coffee and add your choice of sweetener while it’s hot, then pour over ice for a refreshing drink.
Classic Iced Coffee: To make classic iced coffee, start by brewing a pot of your favorite coffee using your coffee maker. Once brewed, allow the coffee to cool either at room temperature or in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, pour the cooled coffee over a glass filled with ice cubes and enjoy a refreshing beverage.
Iced Coffee with Milk: For a creamier iced coffee, brew a strong cup of coffee and allow it to cool. In a glass filled with ice, mix the cooled coffee with chilled milk or cream, adjusting the ratio to your taste. This recipe creates a rich and satisfying drink perfect for those who enjoy a creamier texture.
Flavored Iced Coffee: To elevate your iced coffee, consider using flavored coffee grounds while brewing in your coffee maker. Alternatively, you can add flavored syrups or extracts after brewing, such as vanilla or caramel, to create your desired flavor profile. This option allows for customization and can satisfy a range of taste preferences.
Cold Brew Concentrate: For cold brew coffee, use a coarser grind of coffee beans and brew a concentrated mix in your coffee maker by adjusting the water-to-coffee ratio and steeping time. Once brewed, dilute the concentrate with water or milk to achieve your preferred strength. The result is a smooth, less acidic coffee that is perfect for iced drinks.
Iced Coffee with Sweetener: Brew your coffee as usual, and while it’s still hot, add your choice of sweetener such as sugar, honey, or agave syrup. Stir until fully dissolved, then let it cool before pouring over ice. This method ensures that the sweetener is evenly mixed, providing a well-balanced iced coffee.
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