Iced coffee is essential for numerous Americans. According to a 2025 survey by the National Coffee Association, 31% of Americans consume iced coffee daily.
Americans are also willing to spend considerable amounts on it. Data from food research firm Technomic revealed that in 2023, consumers spent $17.7 billion on iced coffee drinks. Coffee prices are increasing as well; a report from August 2025 noted that the average price for hot coffee was $3.52, while cold brew averaged $5.47.
To save some cash on their daily coffee, frugal individuals on Reddit found a budget-friendly iced coffee recipe shared by a trucker that has garnered much appreciation from like-minded enthusiasts.
49-Cent Iced Coffee Hack
User asu3dvl detailed his method for keeping iced coffee expenses low during his travels:
“As a trucker, I mix two tablespoons of Great Value 100% Colombian instant coffee into my 20 oz Stanley tumbler every morning. I add a splash of hazelnut creamer, then fill it with water and ice before shaking it up,” he explained.
He highlighted its affordability, stating, “It’s about $0.49 a day, which keeps me going all morning and helps me stay sane while navigating through traffic in my 40-ton truck.”
He also mentioned that both the coffee and large creamer last him around three weeks, saying, “It tastes just as good, if not better, than the freshly brewed coffee you find out here.”
Sharing Iced Coffee Hacks
Others joined in, offering their iced coffee tips to save money as well.
“I really enjoy Cafe Altura instant coffee. It’s one of the best instant coffees I’ve tasted, and it’s a medium roast! A bit pricier but definitely cheaper than buying coffee from a café.” – 4077
“Juan Valdez also makes great instant coffee,” added jameson71. Another user recommended Bustelo instant coffee.
One user shared a recipe: “I use about a cup and a third of milk, three tablespoons of brown sugar, a couple of ice cubes, and two heaping scoops of instant coffee. A touch of vanilla blended together tastes like a Tim Hortons Iced Capp—I find instant coffee superb for iced drinks!” – Just_Cake4512
“For those looking to step up from instant without spending a lot, cold brew concentrate is another excellent option. Pour ground coffee into a mason jar with water overnight, strain in the morning, and it’ll last a week in the fridge. The cost comes out to about 30-40 cents per cup,” suggested Couponpicked.
The original post titled “Trucker shares his 49-cent iced coffee recipe that ‘lasts all morning’ and frugal foodies call a ‘win’” appeared on Upworthy.
