In the world of coffee culture, there are two distinctive sides, and two different types of people. These are the die-hard hot coffee obsessives and the crazed iced coffee defenders. Both parties are willing to defend their caffeinated beverage of choice against any and all criticism. So, how do the two types of coffee actually stack up against each other? Is there a clear winner, or will they both come in tied? Read on to find out the results of our investigation.
Serving Size
When it comes to the serving size for the respective coffees, one element that seems to be a constant is iced coffees coming in a larger size. Whilst hot coffee has dedicated sizing for its various drinks, from the cup barely as tall as a pinkie finger for the espresso, to the handheld regular cup of a latte, an iced coffee tends to be larger and milkier across the board.
Of course, this is also up to personal preference, with some people preferring the efficient and more concentrated flavour of a hot sip of caffeine, whilst others prefer the ability to sip on the more jumbo size of an iced coffee.
Of course, if you happen to be near any coffee machines in Malaysia, it’s worth creating the masterpiece that is Malaysian iced coffee, which has a wonderfully complex flavour of bitter coffee, and sweet and creamy condensed milk. This is a wonderful example of how iced coffee is not just a one-trick pony and is also capable of interesting flavours to excite the palette.
Preparation Time
Preparation time is one instance when an iced coffee likely has a hot coffee beat. Today, making a coffee of any kind can easily be a quick and simple process, especially when it’s being created from something like a capsule coffee machine, which shortens the already efficient process even more. However, whilst any hot coffee with milk requires it to be steamed, the same cannot be said for iced coffee. It can simply be poured into the beverage as is.
Of course, there are some counterarguments from the hot coffee fanatics who can argue that not all hot caffeinated beverages require milk, or that some iced coffees require additional preparation. However, on average, the icing seems to be a quicker process, perfect for those on the go or in an office, who are anxious to return to their desks to continue with their day.
Health Benefits
When it comes to the health benefits that come with coffee, here is where hot coffee begins to win back some points. There have been studies done that suggest that hot coffee reduces the effects of stress and sleep deprivation. However, one indisputable fact on the side of the steaming brew is that hot coffee possesses more antioxidants than its iced counterpart. The benefits of these antioxidants include but are not limited to, a lower risk of heart and liver disease, as well as a lower chance of developing diabetes. That is definitely a win for the hot coffee community.
Caffeine Levels
The question on everybody’s lips is which kind of coffee has the higher caffeine content? And, the answer is hot coffee, most notably from the strength and process of the coffee roastery. Now depending on how you look at this, it can be a win for both sides. For those looking for a beverage they can have a few of each day without developing a shaky sense, an iced coffee or cold brew is the route to take, as the lower caffeine levels mean you’re able to drink it purely for the flavour. However, if you benefit not simply from the flavour, but also from the buzz it gives that causes you to be more alert and productive, then opt for an espresso, latte, or any other form of hot caffeine.
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It seems there is a tie, with hot and iced coffee both having their own merits to hold onto. At the end of the day, it is all up to personal preference. So, we hope you enjoy your cup of joe, regardless of whether you’re the type of person to sip on their iced coffee even in the depths of winter, or are eager for your espresso even throughout the sweltering summer days.
If you would like to take the next step for a delightful coffee experience, whether you go for iced or hot coffee, contact the coffee specialists from Corporate Coffee Solutions today.
