Cold brew coffee has gained immense popularity among coffee lovers for its smooth, naturally sweet flavour and refreshing qualities. Unlike traditional iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then cooled, cold brew is steeped slowly at a lower temperature, resulting in a less acidic and more mellow taste. Making cold brew at home is not only cost-effective but also allows you to customise the flavour to suit your preferences. With the right tools and techniques, you can enjoy cafe-quality cold brew whenever you like.

What is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew coffee is a brewing method where coarsely ground coffee is steeped in cold or room temperature water for an extended period, usually 12–24 hours. Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and quickly cooled, cold brew is never exposed to heat, leading to a naturally sweeter, smoother, and less acidic profile. This process extracts the rich flavours from the beans while minimising bitterness, making it a favourite for those who enjoy a milder yet full-bodied coffee experience.

Ingredients and Equipment

Ingredients:

Coffee Beans: Medium to dark roast is recommended for a richer flavour.

Grind Size: A coarse grind is ideal to prevent over-extraction and ensure a smooth taste.

Water: Use filtered or bottled water for the best flavour.

Equipment:

Mason Jar: A simple and affordable option for steeping.

French Press: Convenient for brewing and straining.

Cold Brew Maker: Specialised devices for easy preparation and filtration.

Strainer: Fine mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or coffee filter for straining.

Step-by-Step Cold Brew Recipe

1. Measure Your Coffee and Water

The standard cold brew ratio is 1:4 (one part coffee to four parts water). For example, use 100g of coffee for 400ml of water.

2. Combine and Stir

Add coarsely ground coffee to your container and pour in the water. Stir gently to ensure all the grounds are fully saturated.

3. Cover and Steep

Seal the container and place it in the fridge for 12–24 hours. The longer it steeps, the stronger the brew.

4. Strain the Coffee

Use a fine mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or coffee filter to strain out the grounds, leaving a smooth, concentrated cold brew.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Cold brew is typically concentrated, so you can dilute it with water, milk, or ice before serving.

Tips for the Perfect Cold Brew

Experiment with Steeping Time: Longer steeping extracts stronger flavours, while shorter times yield a lighter brew.

Adjust the Coffee-to-Water Ratio: If the brew is too strong, dilute it; if too weak, use more coffee next time.

Store it Properly: Cold brew concentrate lasts up to a week in the fridge.

Creative Serving Ideas

Milk or Cream: Add dairy or plant-based alternatives like oat or almond milk.

Sweeteners: Enhance with vanilla syrup, honey, or sugar.

Flavour Enhancements: Experiment with cinnamon, cocoa powder, or a splash of vanilla extract.

Troubleshooting Common Mistakes

Bitter Brew? Likely over-extracted—try a shorter steeping time.

Weak Brew? Increase the coffee-to-water ratio.

Cloudy Brew? Use a finer filter for a clearer result.

Why Cold Brew is Perfect for Coffee Lovers

Cold brew isn’t just a delicious way to enjoy coffee—it also offers benefits such as:

Lower Acidity: Easier on the stomach compared to hot-brewed coffee.

Versatility: Use it as a base for iced lattes, coffee smoothies, or even cocktails.

Conclusion

Making cold brew at home is an easy and rewarding process that lets you enjoy a high-quality coffee experience without the cafe price tag. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a smooth, delicious cold brew tailored to your taste. Check out our speciality coffee collection to enhance your brewing experience!

FAQs

1. Does cold brew coffee have less caffeine?

Cold brew typically has more caffeine per volume than regular coffee due to its long steeping time. However, because it's often served as a concentrate and diluted, the caffeine content can be adjusted to suit your preference.

2. How long can cold brew coffee last?

Cold brew stays fresh for up to a week in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. After that, the flavour may start to degrade, becoming stale or slightly sour.