Skip to content

How to Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home

June 25, 2024

Hey coffee lovers! Today, we want to introduce you to the delicious cold-brew coffee world. For those who haven’t had the pleasure, cold brew is a smooth, refreshing coffee beverage brewed with cold water over an extended period. The result? A less acidic, more concentrated coffee that’s perfect for those hot summer days, or for anyone who wants a delicious iced coffee option without the bitterness.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: isn’t cold brew expensive? Nope! Not only is making cold brew at home super easy, but it’s also a way more cost-effective way to enjoy this delightful drink. So, grab your favorite mug (or mason jar, we don’t judge!), and let’s explore the wonderful world of DIY cold brew!

Brewing Nirvana: Tools of the Trade

Before we explore the delicious world of steeping, let’s gather our brewing supplies. The beauty of cold brew is that it doesn’t require any fancy equipment. Here’s what you’ll need:

  • Coarse Ground Coffee: This is essential. Cold brew is a course-grind affair, friends. Using finely ground coffee will result in a bitter brew, so resist the urge to grab your trusty pre-ground bag. If you don’t have a coffee grinder at home, no worries! Most coffee shops will grind your beans for you, just ask for a cold brew grind. Here’s a link to a great bag of coarse ground coffee on Amazon that would be perfect for cold brew: https://amzn.to/3VogZxJ
  • Filter: There are a couple of options here. You can use a classic cheesecloth and strainer combo, a reusable cold brew filter (these are amazing and eco-friendly!), or even a French Press with its built-in filter.
  • Pitcher or Container: Any container that will hold your coffee and water will work. A mason jar is a popular choice, but a carafe or even a large pitcher will do the trick.
  • Cold Water: Filtered water is always a good call, but tap water will work in a pinch.

The Art of the Steep: Brewing Like a Boss

Now that you’ve got your tools assembled, let’s get steeping! Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:

  • Ingredients:
  • Instructions:
    1. In your chosen container, combine the coffee grounds and water. Stir well to make sure all the grounds are saturated.
    2. Cover and let sit at room temperature for 12-24 hours. Longer steeping times will result in a stronger brew.

Pro Tip: For a cold brew concentrate that you can dilute later, use a 1:3 coffee to water ratio. So, for this recipe, that would be 1 cup of coffee grounds to 3 cups of water.

  • Straining and Storing: After steeping, it’s time to separate the coffee grounds from the liquid gold. Here’s where your chosen filter comes in. Strain the coffee into another container, making sure to get out all the grounds. You can discard the grounds (or compost them!) and store the cold brew concentrate in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.

Serving Suggestions: Your Coffee Oasis Awaits

Now comes the fun part: enjoying your cold brew masterpiece! Here are a few ideas to get your creative coffee juices flowing:

  • The Classic Cold Brew: Pour your cold brew concentrate over ice and dilute with water or milk to your desired taste. Simple and perfect!
  • Cold Brew Latte: Feeling fancy? Add some frothed milk and a drizzle of chocolate or caramel syrup for a coffee shop-style latte at home.
  • Cold Brew Smoothie: Looking for a refreshing pick-me-up? Blend your cold brew concentrate with some ice, fruit, and yogurt for a delicious and nutritious smoothie.
  • Spiked Cold Brew: For the adults out there, a shot of your favorite liquor (think Baileys, rum, or bourbon) can add a little somethin’ somethin’ to your cold brew.

Beyond the Basics: Taking Your Cold Brew to the Next Level

While the basic cold brew recipe is fantastic, there’s a whole world of experimentation waiting to be explored! Here are some ways to elevate your cold brew game:

Grind Size and Roast:

  • Grind: While a coarse grind is the standard, feel free to experiment with slightly finer or even coarser grinds to see how it affects the taste. A finer grind will result in a stronger, more intense brew, while a coarser grind will yield a smoother, lighter cup.
  • Roast: The type of coffee bean you use can drastically impact the flavor profile of your cold brew. Lighter roasts tend to be brighter and more acidic, while darker roasts are richer and more chocolatey. Experiment with different roasts to find your favorite! Here are some links to explore different roast options:

Cold Brew Tea: For a unique twist, try using loose leaf tea instead of coffee grounds! Black tea, green tea, or even herbal teas can all be cold brewed for a refreshing and flavorful alternative.

Infused Cold Brew: Add a whole new dimension of flavor to your cold brew by infusing it with fruits, herbs, or spices during the steeping process. Some popular combinations include:

  • Vanilla Bean: Add a split vanilla bean to your steeping container for a touch of vanilla sweetness.
  • Citrus: Orange peels, lemon peels, or even grapefruit wedges can add a bright, citrusy flavor.
  • Spice it Up: Cinnamon sticks, cloves, or cardamom pods can add a warm, spicy kick to your cold brew.

Cold Brew Equipment Upgrades:

While a mason jar and cheesecloth work just fine, there are some brewing tools that can streamline your cold brew process and up your coffee game:

  • Cold Brew Maker: These handy devices https://amzn.to/3z4514X are specifically designed for cold brew coffee. They typically come with a built-in filter and a stopper, making the steeping and straining process much easier.
  • Coffee Grinder: Freshly grinding your beans is always recommended for the best coffee flavor. If you don’t already have one, investing in a good quality coffee grinder will take your cold brew (and all your other coffee drinks) to the next level.
  • Milk Frother: For those who love fancy coffee drinks, a milk frother is a great way to create frothed milk for your cold brew lattes and cappuccinos at home.

Cold Brew for a Crowd:

Cold brew concentrate is perfect for entertaining! Here are some tips for making cold brew for a crowd:

  • Scale Up the Recipe: The beauty of cold brew is that it’s easily scalable. Just multiply the recipe by the number of servings you need. Consider using a larger container, like a stockpot, for steeping large batches.
  • Cold Brew on Tap: Invest in a beverage dispenser to keep your cold brew readily available for your guests. This is a great option for parties, barbecues, or just keeping your office cold brew station stocked.

Troubleshooting Your Cold Brew:

Here are some common cold brew problems and how to fix them:

  • Cold Brew is Too Bitter: This could be due to using a fine grind, over-steeping, or using low-quality coffee beans. Try a coarser grind, shorter steeping time, or using a higher quality coffee.
  • Cold Brew is Too Weak: A finer grind, longer steeping time, or using a stronger coffee-to-water ratio will all result in a more concentrated brew.

The Final Sip: Cold Brew Nirvana Awaits

Cold brew coffee is a delicious and refreshing way to enjoy your favorite beverage. With its smooth taste, versatility, and ease of preparation, it’s no wonder cold brew has become so popular. So, ditch the expensive coffee shop lines and start brewing your own cold brew magic at home! Experiment with different flavors, and brewing methods, and find your perfect cup. With a little practice, you’ll be a cold brew brewing pro in no time!

Bonus Tip: Don’t forget to share your cold brew creations and tips on social media! Tag me at @coffeeonadime and use the hashtag #ColdBrewCrew. I can’t wait to see what you come up with!