Cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm with its smooth taste, low acidity, and refreshing qualities. Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period. The result is a mellow, full-bodied drink that’s perfect for hot days—or any time you crave a less bitter, more rounded cup.
This guide will walk you through how to make cold brew coffee at home, including the equipment you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and tips for customizing your brew.
Why Choose Cold Brew?
Cold brew coffee offers several benefits:
- Smooth flavor: The cold extraction process reduces bitterness and acidity.
- Lower acidity: Easier on the stomach and teeth.
- Versatility: Can be served hot or cold, black or with milk.
- Convenience: Make a batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week.
What You’ll Need
Ingredients:
- Coarsely ground coffee (medium to dark roast works best)
- Filtered cold water
Equipment:
- Large jar, pitcher, or French press
- Fine mesh strainer or coffee filter
- Cheesecloth (optional for clearer coffee)
Cold Brew Ratio Guide
A common ratio is:
- 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee
- 4 cups of cold water
This makes a strong concentrate that you can dilute with water, milk, or a milk alternative to taste.
For larger batches, scale up the ratio. For example:
- 2 cups coffee : 8 cups water
- 3 cups coffee : 12 cups water
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Measure and Grind Your Coffee
Use coarsely ground coffee—similar to raw sugar in texture. Finer grounds can over-extract and make your brew murky.
2. Combine Coffee and Water
In your jar or pitcher, mix the coffee grounds with cold, filtered water. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated.
3. Steep
Cover and let steep at room temperature for 12 to 18 hours, or in the refrigerator for 18 to 24 hours.
4. Strain
Use a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter to remove the grounds. You may need to strain twice for clarity.
5. Store
Pour the filtered cold brew into a clean bottle or jar. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
How to Serve Cold Brew
On Ice (Classic)
- Dilute concentrate 1:1 with cold water
- Serve over ice with optional sweetener or milk
With Milk or Plant-Based Creamer
- Mix concentrate with oat, almond, soy, or regular milk
- Add flavored syrups (vanilla, caramel, mocha)
As a Nitro Cold Brew
- Use a whipped cream dispenser charged with nitrogen for a frothy, stout-like texture
Heated Cold Brew
- Warm up diluted cold brew for a smoother hot coffee option
Flavor Variations
Customize your cold brew with added ingredients during the steeping process:
- Cinnamon sticks
- Orange peel
- Vanilla beans
- Cardamom pods
Add these directly to the coffee grounds before steeping.
Tips for the Perfect Cold Brew
- Use filtered water: Improves the final taste.
- Weigh your coffee: For precision, use a kitchen scale. 1 cup of beans = ~85 grams.
- Use fresh beans: Opt for recently roasted, high-quality coffee.
- Don’t rush it: Steeping too briefly can lead to weak coffee.
Cold Brew vs. Iced Coffee
| Feature | Cold Brew | Iced Coffee |
|---|---|---|
| Brew Method | Steeped cold for 12–24 hrs | Brewed hot, then cooled |
| Flavor | Smooth, rich, low-acid | Bright, more acidic |
| Caffeine | Higher per ounce (concentrated) | Lower per ounce |
| Shelf Life | Up to 1 week in fridge | Best fresh, doesn’t store well |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any coffee beans? Yes, but medium to dark roasts tend to yield the best cold brew flavor.
What if I don’t have a French press? Use any large jar or pitcher and strain with a fine mesh sieve or coffee filter.
How long does cold brew last? Cold brew concentrate lasts up to 7 days in the fridge. Dilute just before drinking for best flavor.
Can I sweeten my cold brew? Yes. Simple syrup dissolves best, or try maple syrup, agave, or flavored creamers.
Final Thoughts: Your Best Brew Awaits
Making cold brew coffee at home is simple, cost-effective, and endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer it black, creamy, or flavored, the slow steeping process brings out the smooth richness of coffee without the bite.
So grab your jar, pick your beans, and start brewing your own refreshing batch of cold brew—perfect for sipping all week long.