Cold brew coffee is the ultimate smooth, refreshing way to enjoy your daily caffeine fix. Unlike traditional brewing methods, this technique creates a rich, velvety concentrate with low acidity and a naturally sweet flavor. With just 10 minutes of prep and 12 hours of steeping, you’ll unlock a drink that’s perfect for hot summer days or a chilled morning pick-me-up.
The result is a bold yet mellow coffee experience, with notes of chocolate and caramel that shine through. Its silky texture and refreshing coolness make it ideal for sipping straight or customizing with milk, cream, or a splash of syrup. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why you ever settled for anything less.
What You’ll Need?
- 1½ cups fresh coarsely ground coffee* (use a coarse grind to prevent sediment in your brew)
- 3 cups filtered water (for the best flavor)
- Milk or plant milk, optional, for serving (dairy, almond, oat, or soy milk work well)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Combine coffee and water: Place the ground coffee in a 28-ounce mason jar or similar container. Add the water and stir gently to ensure all the grounds are wet.
- Steep: Cover the jar and let it sit at room temperature for 12 to 24 hours. (The longer it steeps, the stronger the flavor.)
- Strain: Spread a piece of cheesecloth in a fine mesh strainer and place it over a large bowl. Pour the coffee mixture through the strainer to remove the grounds.
- Store: Transfer the strained coffee to a clean jar or bottle and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Serve: Pour the cold brew over ice and add milk or plant milk, if desired. If the coffee is too strong, dilute it with water or additional milk to taste.
Perfecting Your Cold Brew: Serving Suggestions
Cold brew coffee is incredibly versatile! Serve it over ice for a refreshing pick-me-up, or add a splash of milk, cream, or your favorite plant-based milk for a creamy twist. For a touch of sweetness, try a drizzle of honey, maple syrup, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Feeling adventurous? Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cocoa powder for a unique flavor boost.
Storage Tips for Freshness
Once strained, your cold brew concentrate can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to *two weeks*. Keep it undiluted for maximum freshness, and mix with water or milk just before serving. If you notice any off flavors, it’s time to brew a fresh batch!
Time-Saving Hacks for Busy Mornings
Short on time? Brew a larger batch over the weekend to enjoy all week long. Use a *large pitcher* instead of a mason jar to make more at once. If you’re in a rush, steep for the minimum 12 hours—it’ll still taste great. Pre-measure your coffee and water the night before to streamline your morning routine.
Equipment Tips for the Best Brew
While a mason jar works perfectly, consider using a *cold brew maker* or a French press for easier straining. If you don’t have cheesecloth, a clean kitchen towel or a nut milk bag works just as well. For the smoothest results, use a *coarse grind* to avoid sediment in your final brew.
Common Questions Answered
Wondering if you can use *fine-ground coffee*? It’s best to stick with coarse grounds to avoid a muddy texture. Can you steep for longer than 24 hours? Yes, but it may become overly strong or bitter. Need a caffeine boost? Cold brew is naturally higher in caffeine, so a little goes a long way!
How to Make Cold Brew Coffee?
Ingredients
- 1½ cups fresh coarsely ground coffee
- 3 cups filtered water
- Milk or plant milk optional, for serving
Instructions
- Place the ground coffee in a 28-ounce mason jar, or similar. Add the water, then stir. Cover and set aside for 12 to 24 hours at room temperature.
- Spread a piece of cheesecloth in a fine mesh strainer and place it over a large bowl. Pour the coffee into the bowl to strain it. Store the strained coffee in the fridge.
- When ready to serve, pour over ice and add milk, if desired.
- If the coffee is stronger than you’d like, dilute it with water or additional milk, as desired.