Coffee Tonic Recipe: A Balanced Blend of Cold Brew & Dry Tonic Water

Updated Oct. 22, 2024

Overview

This invigorating Coffee Tonic marries the bold depth of chilled cold brew coffee with the crisp, slightly bitter notes of dry tonic water (high quinine, low sweetness). The result is a refreshing, low-ABV beverage perfect for breakfast, brunch, or post-work relaxation—balance coffee’s richness with tonic’s effervescence, customizable with garnishes or alcohol.

Ingredients (Serves 1)

• 4 oz (120 ml) Dry Tonic Water (chilled, 2+ hours in fridge)

Note: Dry tonic has higher quinine content than classic Indian tonic, delivering pronounced bitterness to cut coffee’s intensity.

• 1.5 oz (45 ml) Cold Brew Coffee (chilled, prepared 12–24 hours prior for maximum clarity and smoothness)

• Ice cubes (large/slow-melting preferred; small for faster dilution)

• Lime wedge (for garnish, optional; adds brightness)

Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Glassware

Select a lowball glass (10–12 oz) or Collins glass (taller, for a more dramatic presentation). Rinse with cold water to prevent condensation from diluting the drink prematurely.

Step 2: Build the Base with Ice

Fill the glass generously with ice, leaving ~½ inch of space at the top. For a slow-melting effect, use large ice spheres or cubes; small ice works if you prefer quicker cooling.

Step 3: Pour Dry Tonic Water

Slowly pour the chilled dry tonic water into the glass, filling it to ¾ full. The fizz from tonic water enhances the coffee’s smoothness and adds effervescence. Avoid overfilling to preserve space for the coffee.

Step 4: Add Cold Brew Coffee (Preserve Layers if Desired)

Using a steady hand, pour the cold brew coffee slowly over the back of a spoon (or directly, if layering is less critical). This gentle introduction prevents excessive foam and maintains a subtle color gradient (coffee floats slightly on top of tonic).

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Squeeze a lime wedge over the surface (optional) and rest the wedge on the rim for a fresh pop of color. For extra flair, skew a lime wheel or add a mint sprig. Enjoy immediately to maintain ice temperature and carbonation.

Pro Tips & Variations

• Dry Tonic Substitutes: If unavailable, use a classic Indian tonic water + ½ tsp lemon zest (to reduce sweetness).

• Alcohol Twist: Add 0.5–1 oz mezcal, gin, or vodka with a dash of orange bitters for a smoky/herbal depth (per user feedback).

• Salted Garnish: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt on the lime wedge or rim for enhanced sweetness.

• Brands to Try: Fever-Tree Dry Tonic, Schweppes Dry Tonic, or Fentimans Dry Tonic (avoid Canada Dry for true "dry" bitterness).

Community Notes & Reviews

• "At my local coffeehouse, they use a grapefruit tonic like Pelligrino. Tartness + espresso = over-the-top good. Give it a try!" – User’s barista-inspired variation.

• "Brunch hit! For alcohol, I added mezcal + orange bitters. Perfectly balanced." – Positive feedback on pairing with meals.

• "As a bitter-lover, this tasted bad… likely due to regular tonic’s high sugar clashing with coffee." – Dissenting opinion; emphasizes dry tonic importance.

• "What’s 'dry' tonic? Canada Dry has 'dry' but isn’t recommended. See brand list above!" – Common confusion resolved via pro tips.

Enjoy this zesty, caffeinated pick-me-up—customize to your taste, and share your variations! ☕️✨