Temperatures are forecast to hit a sweltering 34C in parts of the UK this weekend as the heatwave hots up, so staying cool and hydrated is key.

Drinking fluids regularly throughout the day is especially important in warm weather to prevent dehydration, and while water or squash are good options, sometimes you can’t beat a nice iced coffee. Coffee has officially overtaken tea as Britain’s favourite drink, according to the Statista Global Consumer Survey, but hot drinks aren’t the best option when the weather is hot. So iced coffee is a good alternative and according to experts, the popular drink can be made even tastier if you swap out one ingredient. Iced coffee is typically made using just four ingredients – coffee (either instant or brewed), milk, ice and sugar. While not the most complex of recipes, experts say it can be improved if you swap out regular milk for almond milk instead.

Almond milk is not only a healthier option than dairy milk as it’s lower in calories and fat, it brings a slightly sweeter, creamier and nutty flavour to the drink that can enhance the overall flavour of the coffee.

The sweetness from the almond milk also helps to offset the bitterness of coffee to make the drink more enjoyable and it also comes in a variety of flavours, like vanilla or chocolate, so it’s an easy way to enhance the overall taste of your brew with very little effort.

Cornish Coffee explains: “Almond milk offers a range of health benefits, making it a popular choice among health-conscious consumers. Compared to dairy milk, it’s lower in calories, contains no cholesterol or saturated fat, and has a naturally low sodium content. Its lactose-free nature also makes it ideal for those who are lactose intolerant.

“On top of that, almond milk comes in a variety of flavours – including unsweetened, sweetened, vanilla, and chocolate – giving coffee lovers even more ways to customise their brew.

“Unsweetened almond milk is rich and nutty, but it can also have a bitter edge that you may not enjoy. That is why many people prefer sweetened almond milk, which might also be flavoured with vanilla. The sweetness takes away any bitterness!”

To make iced coffee, simply brew a cup of black coffee and allow this to turn completely cold before pouring into a blender along with almond milk and some ice.

BBC Good Food recommends using 200ml of coffee to 50ml of milk, but you can adjust these amounts to suit your taste. Simply blend the ingredients together until smooth and creamy, then pour into a chilled glass to serve.