Make a Mazagran the NOAH's way

Make a Mazagran the NOAH's way

f you think iced coffee only pairs with milk and vanilla syrup, your tastebuds are about to get a serious wake-up call.

Meet the Mazagran—the original iced coffee drink. Originating in Algeria and perfected in Portugal, this beverage combines the bright, complex notes of specialty coffee with the crisp, citrusy punch of fresh lemon.

Think of it as the sophisticated, coffee-obsessed cousin of the classic lemonade. It’s sweet, tart, incredibly refreshing, and surprisingly easy to whip up.

Why Specialty Coffee? Standard, dark-roasted commercial coffee can taste overly bitter when paired with lemon. By using a high-quality, lightly roasted specialty coffee—especially one with natural citrus or floral notes (like a washed Ethiopian or Kenyan bean)—you create a harmonious balance where the coffee and fruit actually complement each other.

Prep Time & Yield

  • Prep time: 5 minutes

  • Difficulty: Super Easy

  • Yield: 1 serving

Ingredients You'll Need

  • 2 oz (60ml) Specialty espresso or concentrated cold brew

  • 1 oz (30ml) Freshly squeezed lemon juice (put away the bottled stuff, fresh is non-negotiable here!)

  • 0.5 oz (15ml) Simple syrup (adjust to taste)

  • Ice cubes

  • Sparkling water or tonic (optional, for a bubbly twist)

  • Fresh mint leaves or a lemon slice for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Brew Your Base: Pull a double shot of your favorite specialty espresso and let it cool slightly. If you don't have an espresso machine, a strong AeroPress brew or a rich cold brew concentrate works beautifully.

  2. Sweeten and Sour: In a cocktail shaker or a tall glass, combine the fresh lemon juice and simple syrup.

  3. Chill it Down: Fill your serving glass to the brim with fresh ice cubes.

  4. The Big Pour: Pour the lemon and syrup mixture over the ice. Slowly pour your brewed specialty coffee over the top to create a gorgeous layered effect.

  5. Add some Fizz (Optional): If you like a bit of effervescence, top off the glass with a splash of sparkling water or premium tonic water.

  6. Garnish and Serve: Slap a sprig of fresh mint to release the aromatics, drop it in the glass alongside a fresh lemon wheel, stir well, and enjoy!

Pro-Tips for the Perfect Mazagran

  • The Bean Match: Look for coffee beans with tasting notes like bergamot, jasmine, lemongrass, or stone fruit. These varieties blend seamlessly with the lemon juice.

  • Keep it Cold: Ice melts fast when hot espresso hits it. To prevent your drink from getting watery, consider chilling your glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before building the drink.

  • Make it an "Adult" Beverage: Hosting a summer evening gathering? Add a splash of dark rum or white port to turn this daytime pick-me-up into a stunning evening cocktail.