Brewing Method
Cold Brew Coffee
Master the art of smooth, low-acid cold brew. Learn brewing methods, ratios, and storage for perfect cold coffee every time.
Master the art of smooth, low-acid cold brew. Learn brewing methods, ratios, and storage for perfect cold coffee every time.
Brew Time
Coffee:Water Ratio
Acidity
Shelf Life
Cold brew is one of the easiest brewing methods to master. Unlike hot brewing methods that require precise temperature and timing, cold brew is forgiving. You simply combine coffee and cold water, wait 12-24 hours, and strain. The result is a smooth, naturally sweet concentrate that's 50% less acidic than hot-brewed coffee.
Research shows that cold brewing extracts different compounds than hot brewing. The lower temperature means less extraction of certain bitter compounds, resulting in a naturally smooth cup. This makes cold brew ideal for people with acid sensitivity or those who simply prefer a smoother flavor profile.
✓ Cold Brew Benefits:
Jar or Container
Any glass jar works (quart or larger)
Coffee Filter
Paper, metal mesh, or cheesecloth
Strainer
Fine mesh or coffee filter
Grinder
Any grinder works; coarse grind
Cold Brew Maker
Dedicated brewer ($20-50)
Scale
For precise measurements ($20-50)
Nut Milk Bag
For straining ($5-15)
Storage Bottles
Glass bottles for concentrate ($10-30)
There are several ways to make cold brew. Choose the method that fits your lifestyle and equipment.
The most straightforward method. Combine coarsely ground coffee and cold water in a jar, let sit 12-24 hours, then strain.
Ratio: 1 part coffee to 4 parts water (e.g., 1 cup coffee to 4 cups water)
Time: 12 hours minimum, 24 hours for fuller flavor
Steps: Mix → Wait → Strain → Enjoy
Best For: Beginners, batch brewing, minimal effort
Pour cold water over ice and coffee grounds, letting it drip into a container below. Produces cold brew in 5-10 minutes.
Ratio: 1 part coffee to 2 parts water (concentrate)
Time: 5-10 minutes
Steps: Fill dripper → Add ice → Pour water slowly → Collect below
Best For: Quick cold brew, less patience required
Make a strong concentrate using a 1:2 ratio, then dilute with water or milk. One batch makes multiple drinks.
Ratio: 1 part coffee to 2 parts water (concentrate)
Time: 12-24 hours
Steps: Mix concentrate → Strain → Dilute 1:1 with water/milk
Best For: Batch brewing, multiple drinks, customization
Grind beans to a coarse consistency, similar to breadcrumbs. Coarse grind prevents over-extraction during the long steep.
Use a 1:4 ratio. For example: 1 cup coarse coffee to 4 cups cold water. Use filtered water for best results.
Pour coffee into a clean jar, then add cold water. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated. This step is researched to improve extraction uniformity.
Cover the jar and place in the refrigerator. Cold temperatures slow extraction, which is why this method takes longer than hot brewing.
12 hours produces a lighter brew, 24 hours produces a fuller flavor. Research shows that extraction continues throughout this period.
Pour through a fine mesh strainer or coffee filter into another jar. This removes all grounds and sediment.
Dilute concentrate 1:1 with water or milk. Serve over ice. Store concentrate in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Storage Duration
Cold brew concentrate lasts 2 weeks refrigerated. After 2 weeks, flavor begins to degrade. Label your jar with the brew date.
Temperature Matters
Keep cold brew refrigerated at all times. Room temperature storage allows bacterial growth. Always refrigerate immediately after brewing.
Dilution Ratios
1:1 with water for strong coffee. 1:1 with milk for creamy drinks. 1:2 with water for lighter cups. Experiment to find your preference.
Hot Cold Brew
Heat cold brew concentrate for hot coffee. This preserves the smooth, low-acid characteristics of cold brewing while serving it hot.
Dark Roasts (Recommended)
Dark roasts are ideal for cold brew. Their bold, chocolatey flavors shine through. The lower acidity of dark roasts complements cold brewing's smooth profile.
Medium Roasts
Medium roasts work well and offer more complexity. They provide a balance between origin characteristics and roasted flavors.
Light Roasts
Light roasts can work but may taste thin or overly acidic. If you prefer lighter roasts, use a 1:3 ratio instead of 1:4 for stronger extraction.
Freshness
Use beans roasted within 2-3 weeks. Older beans lose vibrancy. Cold brew's long extraction time means stale coffee will taste noticeably flat.
Cold brew is one of the easiest and most forgiving brewing methods. Start with a simple jar and cold water, and you'll have smooth, delicious cold coffee in 24 hours.
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