Orgeat Syrup Iced Coffee or Caffe’ Freddo con Orzata is how Italians quench their thirst in summer and beat the heat!

If you grew up in an Italian household, especially during the hot summer months, chances are you’ve tasted orzata. But what is orzata?

Orzata is a sweet Italian almond syrup traditionally made from almonds or apricot kernels, along with the use of some orange blossom. Despite the name (orzata is derived from hordeum, Latin for barley), modern orzata doesn’t contain barley. It’s used in beverages, especially during the summer, often diluted with cold water or added to cocktails and iced drinks.

This classic non-alcoholic syrup has deep roots in Mediterranean culture.

In Italy, orzata is more than a syrup—it’s a nostalgic flavor, served over ice water at beach bars, sipped during family lunches, or drizzled over shaved ice. It’s sweet, floral, nutty, and just the right amount of exotic.

Fabbri is the excellence brand that we always bought for Orzata, it is synonym of tradition and craftsmanship. The company was born in 1905, and it has passed down its culinary tradition to now the 5^th generation, becoming well known all around the world for its syrups and confectionery.

Today, we’re blending tradition with caffeine in this irresistible Orgeat Syrup Iced Coffee. It’s cool, creamy, and delivers the taste of summer in a glass.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

-Iced coffee is already a summer staple, but this version feels extra special. The orgeat syrup gives it a subtle almond-marzipan vibe, creamy without needing milk.

-It’s naturally dairy-free and offers something unique without being overly sweet or artificial.

-Iced coffee with orgeat syrup is refreshing, and will give you an energetic pick-me up effect: a good way to vary you caffeine fix routine!

ORGEAT SYRUP ICED COFFEE INGREDIENTS

You will need a good expresso, possibly made with a classic moka, or at least this is my take!

Orgeat Syrup: 1-2 tablespoons will be enough for one person. I recommend Fabbri 1905 orzata, the Italian brand for excellence for this kind of product.

Milk: almond milk will enhance the flavor of this beverage, you can also use normal milk.

Additional toppings: crushed almonds, cinnamon.

HOW TO MAKE ORGEAT SYRUP ICED COFFEE

Chill your coffee. Brew your espresso or strong coffee and let it cool.

Add ice: place a few cubes of ice to a glass.

Sweeten. Pour the orgeat syrup over ice.

Add coffee. Pour the cooled coffee over the syrup and stir well.

Optional milk. Add a splash of your favorite plant-based milk if you like it creamier.

Orgeat Syrup Iced Cofee (Caffe'Freddo con Orzata) with a mock and orzata bottle in background

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

If the sweetness of your coffee is not enough, I recommend serving your orzata iced coffee with:

–Biscotti or almond cookies: the almonds will pair well with the taste of the beverage.

-A slice of lemon olive oil cake: a classic Italian dessert, that will enhance even more the taste of your iced coffee.

-Some fresh figs or stone fruit, because it is summer and they are at their best.

This drink is great wake me up in the morning, and it will help you go through the afternoon with a second pick me up.

HOW TO STORE ORGEAT SYRUP (ORZATA)

Below are a few simple tips to preserve the aromas of your orgeat syrup, once you have opened the bottle.

-Once you open your syrup, it is better to store it in the fridge.

–Shake before each use, as natural oils may separate.

-Keep away from light and heat to preserve flavor.

FAQs

What’s the difference between orzata and horchata?

Orzata (Italy):

It is made from almonds or apricot kernels. Its consistency is syrupy and concentrated. You will need small amounts to flavor drinks.

It often contains orange blossom or rose water.

It is dairy-free and alcohol-free

Horchata (Spain/Latin America):

It is typically a rice or nut milk-based beverage. Horchata has a thinner consistency, served as a drink on its own. It is sweetened with sugar and flavored with cinnamon.

It often contains dairy or evaporated milk in Mexican versions

So while they sound similar, orzata is a syrup, while horchata is a drink. Their origins are different, but both are beloved summertime refreshments.

Horchata Iced Coffee is also very popular, but it has not to be confused with orzata, while the taste might be similar, the consistency is totally different.

Is this drink vegan?

Absolutely! Just make sure your orgeat syrup doesn’t contain dairy. Add oat or almond milk if you want it extra creamy.

What are the other uses of orzata?

Orzata is very versatile, you can use it in:

Cocktails: Orzata is a classic ingredient in many cocktails, particularly Tiki drinks, and pairs well with rum, brandy, whiskey, tequila, and mezcal.

Non-alcholic drinks: to flavor and sweeten lemonade, fruit punch, coffee, milkshakes, and other refreshing drinks. It’s also popular in Italian Sodas and can be added to iced tea. In Italy it is also used in the south in Sicily to flavor granitas.

Baking: You can use it in baking to flavor pie fillings, sorbets, fruit salads, and other desserts. It can also be used in cakes, like an orzata and olive oil cake.

I hope you liked this Italian Iced Coffee with Orzata recipe! If you try this recipe and you liked it, please leave a star review below! I would be very appreciative of your comments! Make sure to tag me on Instagram @Italian_kitchen_confessions I hope you loved it! To get more ideas follow me on Pinterest.