The Ultimate Guide on How to Make Cold Brew Coffee

Many people are intimidated by the idea of making cold brew coffee at home and are unaware of how easy and affordable it can be. Making cold brew coffee at home is a simple and cost-effective way to enjoy delicious, smooth espresso daily.

The process only requires a few supplies, time, and creativity for flavor variations. Whether looking for an easy pick-me-up or the perfect gift for a coffee lover, making cold brew at home is a fun and rewarding experience.

With some practice and experimentation, you’ll be brewing barista-quality iced coffee drinks in no time! So what are you waiting for? Grab your supplies and let’s learn how to make cold brew coffee.

pouring cold brew coffee

What Is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew coffee is a UNIQUE brewing method for making delicious and smooth espresso drinks (like they use in the local coffee shop). Instead of using boiling hot water, cold water is used to steep the grounds for 12-24 hours at room temperature or refrigerator.

This process results in an INTENSELY concentrated espresso with a wonderfully bold flavor and less acidity than regular brewed coffee.

Making cold brew coffee at home also allows you to make single or double shots of espresso, lattes, cappuccinos, iced coffees, and so much more. You can CUSTOMIZE your drink with different flavors and ingredients to create a unique beverage tailored to your taste.

With practice, you’ll soon be crafting amazing cold brew drinks that even your favorite barista can’t rival!

Step By Step Guide to Make Cold Brew Coffee

Making cold brew coffee is as EASY as 1-2-3. All you need is a few supplies, some time, and a little bit of creativity. Here’s an easy step-by-step guide for making delicious cold-brew coffee at home:

1. Gather The Necessary Supplies.

To make your cold-brew coffee, you’ll need:

  • Coarsely ground coffee

  • A large container

  • Cold water.

Make sure your beans are coarsely ground and NOT powder (like in drip coffee), as this will ensure that the flavor extraction and brewing process is even.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have coarsely ground coffee, you can use regular grounds and use a coarser grind setting on your coffeemaker or coffee grinder.

2. Measure Out Your Desired Amount of Coffee Grounds

Once you’ve gathered your supplies, measure out the DESIRED amount of filtered water and freshly ground coffee into the plastic container. A typical ratio is 1 part coffee grounds to 2 parts cold water.

If you’re looking for a more concentrated brew, use a HIGHER ratio of grounds to water. You can use a tablespoon or measuring cup to measure out your desired amount.

3. Add Cold Water to the Mixture

Once you’ve measured out your grounds, add cold water to the mixture and stir until all grounds are FULLY saturated. Make sure that there are no clumps of dry ground on the surface or in the bottom of the container.

4. Cover With Lid or Plastic Wrap and Let Steep

After stirring, cover your mixture with a lid or plastic wrap and let STEEP for 12-24 hours in the refrigerator. This will give the coffee time to extract all of its delicious flavors.

If you DON’T allow your mixture to steep for the right amount of time, your cold brew will be too weak or overly bitter.

Pro Tip: You can use bees wrap for a more sustainable and eco-friendly option.

5. Use a Cheesecloth or Strainer to Separate Liquid From the Grounds

making cold brew

Once your mixture has steeped, it’s time to STRAIN it. Use a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer to separate the grounds from the liquid by pouring your mixture into another container and pressing it down on the grounds with a spatula or wooden spoon.

Pro Tip: Instead of using a mason jar to make your cold brew, you could strain it into a french press.

6. Discard Used Coffee Grounds and Store Brewed Concentrate

Discard the used coffee grounds and STORE your brewed concentrate in a sealed container for up to two weeks. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

7. Enjoy Your Cold Brew Coffee!

Now that you’ve made your cold brew espresso, it’s time to ENJOY it! Pour over ice or add milk and sweetener to make delicious iced coffee drinks. Add ice cubes and a few tablespoons of cream to make a smooth and creamy latte.

With some experimenting, you’ll be sure to find the PERFECT flavor combination for your cold brew concoctions!

Pro Tip: Make up some of your own coffee ice cubes to keep your cold brew from getting watered down. .

What Are The Best Coffee Beans For A Cold Brew?

If you want to get the best flavor out of your cold brew coffee, you’ll want to opt for a light roast with medium-to-high acidity. These beans tend to have more nuance and SWEETNESS in their taste—the perfect way to counterbalance the strong boldness of cold brew coffee.

However, if you don’t have access to those types of beans, a dark roast works too! The trick is to find QUALITY beans that haven’t gone overroasted because the overpowering smokiness can take away from a refreshing cup of joe.

When all else fails, just remember this rule: nothing beats freshly ground quality beans for achieving great flavor!

Cold Brew Coffee Recipe You Just Can’t Live Without

Now that you’re equipped with all the NECESSARY knowledge to make a delicious cold brew coffee, it’s time to put your newfound skills to the test. Check out this simple cold brew recipe, and enjoy a cup of unique cold brew in no time.

Cinnamon Maple Cold Brew

Ingredients:

Instructions:

  1. Combine the ground coffee and cold water in a mason jar or plastic container with lid. Stir until all grounds are fully saturated.

  2. Cover the container with a lid and let steep for 12-18 hours in the refrigerator.

  3. Strain the cold brew concentrate into another container using a cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer. Discard used coffee grounds.

  4. In each cup, add 1 tablespoon of maple syrup and a pinch of cinnamon.

  5. Fill each cup with cold brew concentrate, stir, and enjoy!

Some of our other favorite cold brew recipes include:

  • Coconut Milk Cold Brew

  • Mint Chocolate Chip Cold Brew

  • Vanilla Macadamia Nut Cold Brew

  • Caramel Mocha Cold Brew

What’s the Difference Between Making Cold Brewed Coffee and Regular Iced Coffee?

cold brew iced coffee

If you’re a coffee lover, you’ve probably noticed the rise in popularity of cold brew coffee. But what exactly is the difference between making your own cold brew and regular iced coffee? Well, for starters, the coffee brewing process is different. Cold brew coffee is made using the cold brew method, which involves steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, typically 12-24 hours. Regular iced coffee, on the other hand, is made by brewing coffee with hot water and then chilling it with ice.

One of the biggest differences between the two is the flavor profile. Cold brew coffee tends to be smoother and less acidic than regular iced coffee, which can be a plus for those who find traditional iced coffee too bitter. Additionally, because the coffee is brewed using cold water, it can be less harsh on the stomach than hot-brewed coffee.

Making your own cold brew is relatively easy, but it does require some planning ahead. You’ll need to make cold brew concentrate by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period of time, typically 12-24 hours. Once the concentrate is made, you can dilute it with water or milk to your desired strength and flavor. The best part about making your own cold brew is that you can customize it to your liking, whether you prefer a stronger or weaker brew, or like to add flavorings like vanilla or cinnamon.

In conclusion, if you love cold brew coffee, making your own cold brew concentrate is a great way to enjoy it at home. While the process does require some planning ahead, the end result is a smooth and less acidic coffee that can be customized to your liking. Regular iced coffee, on the other hand, is made using hot water and then chilled with ice, resulting in a more traditional coffee flavor. Both have their own unique benefits and flavor profiles, so why not try both and see which one you prefer?

Best Cold Brew Makers on Amazon

If you’re a fan of cold brew coffee, then you know that having the right equipment is essential for making a delicious cup at home. Luckily, Amazon has a wide selection of cold brew makers to choose from, ranging from simple and affordable to more advanced and pricey. To help you narrow down your options, we’ve compiled a list of the top three best cold brew makers on Amazon. Disclaimer: these are affiliate links. That means if you use one to make a purchase we could be paid a commission at no extra charge to you. It helps us keep the lights on.

1. Takeya Patented Deluxe Cold Brew Coffee Maker – This cold brew maker is one of the most popular on Amazon, and for good reason. It’s easy to use, affordable, and produces delicious, smooth cold brew coffee. The airtight lid and non-slip handle make it easy to transport and store, and the fine-mesh filter ensures that your coffee is free of any sediment or grounds. 

Takeya Cold Brew Coffee Maker with Black Lid

2. OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker – If you’re looking for a high-quality cold brew maker that will last for years, the OXO Good Grips Cold Brew Coffee Maker is a great choice. It’s made from durable materials and features a rainmaker lid that evenly distributes water over the coffee grounds for optimal extraction. The stainless steel mesh filter is easy to clean and produces a smooth, full-bodied cup of cold brew. 

3. Toddy Cold Brew System – The Toddy Cold Brew System is a favorite among coffee aficionados for its ability to produce a rich, full-bodied cold brew concentrate. The system uses a unique brewing method that extracts the coffee’s natural flavors and oils while reducing acidity and bitterness. The concentrate can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks and diluted with water or milk to your desired strength. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Use Decaf Coffee Beans?

Yes, you can use decaf coffee beans for a cold brew. Decaffeinated coffee still has the same delicious flavor as regular coffee but without the caffeine kick!

Can You Freeze Cold Brew Coffee?

Yes, you can freeze your cold brew concentrate in an airtight container for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy your cold brew concentrate, thaw it out and make a delicious cup of iced coffee.

Is A Cold Brew Coffee Less Acidic Than Hot Coffee?

Yes, cold-brew coffee has a lower acidity than hot-brewed coffee. This makes it a great option for those who want to enjoy a cup of joe without the stomach upset that can sometimes come with highly acidic coffee.

Conclusion

Making cold brew coffee at home is a great way to save money and get creative with your favorite flavors. With the right supplies, a little bit of time, and some experimentation, you can make delicious iced coffees that will be sure to satisfy even the pickiest of caffeine connoisseurs!

Cold-brewed coffee has a lower acidity than hot-brewed coffee, so it’s also easier on the stomach.

Whether you prefer decaf or regular grounds, use coarsely ground beans for maximum flavor extraction. Follow the step-by-step guide for making cold brew espresso and enjoy all its deliciousness today. You no longer have to head to Starbucks or McDonald’s when you want a cup of iced coffee or cold brew.