Cold brew coffee is smooth, refreshing, and incredibly easy to make at home. Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and cooled down, cold brew is brewed slowly with cold water, resulting in a naturally sweet, low-acid drink. Here’s a step-by-step cold brew recipe for beginners.
Why Cold Brew?
- Smooth and sweet: Less bitterness, lower acidity.
- Versatile: Drink straight, over ice, or with milk.
- Long-lasting: Stays fresh in the fridge for up to 7–10 days.
Core Cold Brew Recipe
- Coffee: 80 g (coarse grind, like breadcrumbs)
- Water: 1 liter (cold, filtered)
- Ratio: 1:12
- Steep Time: 12–18 hours at room temperature or in fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Add 80 g coarse coffee to a jar or French press.
- Pour in 1 liter cold water and stir gently.
- Cover and let steep 12–18 hours.
- Strain with a fine mesh filter or press French press plunger.
- Store concentrate in fridge for up to 1 week.
Serving Ideas
- Straight Over Ice: Refreshing black cold brew.
- Diluted: Mix 1:1 with water for a lighter taste.
- Cold Brew Latte: Mix with cold milk or oat milk.
- Sweetened: Add vanilla syrup or honey for flavor.
FAQs
Q: Can I make cold brew without a French press?
Yes, use a mason jar and strain with cheesecloth or paper filter.
Q: Is cold brew stronger than regular coffee?
Yes, it’s a concentrate—dilute before drinking if too strong.
Final Thoughts
Cold brew is one of the easiest and most rewarding coffee methods. With minimal effort, you’ll have a week’s worth of smooth, delicious coffee ready to enjoy.
