Cold Brew Coffee is a smooth, less acidic, and naturally sweet coffee drink that’s brewed slowly with cold water instead of hot. This method results in a bold yet refreshing coffee that’s perfect for warm weather or for those who prefer a milder, less bitter coffee experience.
Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then chilled, cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours. This process extracts the rich flavors and natural sweetness of the beans while reducing acidity.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to make an authentic Cold Brew Coffee at home, including the best coffee-to-water ratio, steeping techniques, and delicious variations.
What Makes Cold Brew Coffee Special?
✔ Smooth and naturally sweet – The long steeping time extracts less acidity, resulting in a balanced taste.
✔ Strong and versatile – Cold brew concentrate can be diluted with water, milk, or used in coffee-based recipes.
✔ Less bitter than hot coffee – The cold water extraction prevents over-extraction of bitter compounds.
✔ Stays fresh for days – Cold brew can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, making it perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients & Equipment for the Perfect Cold Brew
✔ 1 cup (100g) coarsely ground coffee (medium-dark roast for the best flavor)
✔ 4 cups (1 liter) cold, filtered water
✔ Large mason jar, French press, or cold brew maker
✔ Coffee filter or fine mesh strainer
✔ Glass bottle or jar for storage
The key to making great cold brew is using coarsely ground coffee—a finer grind can result in an over-extracted, muddy texture.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cold Brew Coffee
Step 1: Grind the Coffee Coarse
✔ Use a coarse grind, similar to sea salt.
✔ A coarser grind allows for slow extraction without bitterness.
✔ Tip: If you don’t have a grinder, ask your coffee shop to grind the beans for cold brew.
Step 2: Combine Coffee and Water
✔ In a large jar or French press, mix 1 cup (100g) of coffee grounds with 4 cups (1 liter) of cold water.
✔ Stir gently to ensure all grounds are fully saturated.
✔ Tip: Use filtered water for a cleaner, smoother taste.
Step 3: Steep for 12-24 Hours
✔ Cover the container and let it steep at room temperature or in the fridge for at least 12 hours (or up to 24 hours for stronger coffee).
✔ Tip: The longer the steeping time, the stronger and more flavorful the cold brew.
Step 4: Strain the Coffee
✔ Use a fine mesh strainer, coffee filter, or cheesecloth to separate the grounds from the liquid.
✔ Transfer the filtered cold brew concentrate into a clean jar for storage.
✔ Tip: Double strain for an extra smooth cold brew.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
✔ To serve, dilute the cold brew concentrate with an equal amount of water or milk.
✔ Add ice cubes and enjoy immediately.
✔ Tip: If you like a stronger coffee, adjust the ratio of concentrate to water/milk based on your preference.
Cold Brew Coffee Variations to Try
✔ Iced Cold Brew Latte – Mix cold brew with cold milk instead of water.
✔ Vanilla Cold Brew – Add ½ teaspoon vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness.
✔ Caramel Cold Brew – Stir in caramel syrup for a dessert-like twist.
✔ Mocha Cold Brew – Mix with chocolate syrup or cocoa powder.
✔ Coconut Cold Brew – Use coconut milk for a tropical, creamy texture.
How to Store Cold Brew Coffee
✔ Store in an airtight glass jar in the fridge for up to 7 days.
✔ Keep the cold brew concentrate separate and dilute only when serving.
✔ Tip: Avoid storing in plastic containers, as they can absorb flavors over time.
Tips for the Best Cold Brew Coffee Experience
✔ Use freshly ground coffee for the best taste.
✔ Steep for at least 12 hours—less time may result in a weak flavor.
✔ Dilute to taste—start with a 1:1 ratio of concentrate to water or milk.
✔ Try different coffee beans—each roast level creates a unique flavor profile.
Final Thoughts
Cold Brew Coffee is a smooth, low-acid, and refreshing coffee drink that’s easy to make at home. Whether you enjoy it black, with milk, or flavored, this versatile and long-lasting coffee is perfect for busy mornings or warm afternoons.
Try making a classic cold brew or experimenting with flavors and milk options to create your perfect cup. No matter how you enjoy it, cold brew coffee is a must-try for any coffee lover!