Citrus coffee is a refreshing and simple beverage that combines the bold flavors of coffee with the bright, zesty notes of citrus fruit. It’s perfect for beating the heat on sweltering summer days. While not uniquely Filipino, this recipe has found a special place in the hearts of coffee lovers in the Philippines, where the tropical climate calls for cool, revitalizing beverages year-round.

Balagtas, who submitted this recipe, is a resident of Manila, the capital city of the Philippines. He explains that cold coffee has gained popularity relatively recently in the Philippines, coinciding with the rise of cafe culture and international coffee franchises. Balagtas describes how Filipinos have embraced the social aspect of coffee consumption, often spending hours in cafes to socialize and bond over friendship and good coffee. By sharing this recipe, he offers us a taste of Filipino coffee culture and the unique combination of local coffee and citrus flavors.

Making citrus coffee is a breeze. Pour a cup of cold brew or coffee over ice in a glass. Add 2-3 teaspoons of your favorite citrus concentrate – Balagtas recommends calamansi, a local Filipino citrus, but lemon or lime work just as well. Sweeten to taste with simple syrup or your preferred sweetener then top it off with sparkling water. Give it a quick stir and enjoy!

I was skeptical at first, but wow, this citrus coffee blew me away! The brightness of the calamansi perfectly complements the rich coffee, creating a surprisingly harmonious flavor. The sparkling water adds a fun, bubbly dimension that I absolutely love. It’s incredibly refreshing and feels like the perfect summer pick-me-up. I can definitely see why Balagtas enjoys this in the Filipino heat. This drink has earned a permanent spot in my summer coffee rotation. It’s a simple recipe that packs a flavorful punch!