Looking for a killer cold brew coffee recipe? We got you!
Cold brew coffee has taken the coffee world by storm, and for good reason. This refreshing, smooth, and low-acid beverage is perfect for hot Summer days or anytime you crave a chilled coffee experience. Unlike traditional hot coffee, cold brew is brewed slowly with cold water, resulting in a uniquely flavorful and less bitter cup.
We serve A LOT of cold brew coffee at our Chilliwack Cafe. We serve ours as a nitro cold brew so it has some effervescence and texture added to it. That's a whole other thing that we'll get into another time. But, if you’ve ever wondered how to brew the perfect cold brew at home, this guide is for you.
We’ll also dive into the benefits of cold brew coffee and why it’s essential to use wholebean coffee for the best results.
What is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew coffee is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold or room temperature water for an extended period, typically 12 to 24 hours. The slow extraction process allows the coffee to develop a rich, smooth flavour profile with lower acidity compared to hot-brewed coffee. You can brew it ready-to-drink or as a concentrate that can be enjoyed over ice, diluted with water or milk, or even used as a base for coffee cocktails. It’s very versatile and can be stored in your fridge for around 3-5 days.
What’s So Great About Cold Brew Coffee?
Smooth, Rich Flavor
One of the most appealing aspects of cold brew coffee is its smooth and rich flavour. The cold brewing process extracts flavours more gently than hot water, which means you’re less likely to end up with a bitter or overly acidic cup. This makes cold brew an excellent option for those who find hot coffee too bitter or acidic.
Low Acidity
For coffee lovers with sensitive stomachs, cold brew is a game-changer. The cold brewing process results in lower acidity, making it gentler on your digestive system. If you’ve ever experienced heartburn or acid reflux after drinking coffee, switching to cold brew might alleviate those issues. But, be warned: cold brew coffee tends to have higher caffeine levels than hot coffee. The low acidity and refreshing nature of cold brew make it easy to sip, but you’ll be getting a significant caffeine hit.
Long Shelf Life
Cold brew coffee has a much longer shelf life than regular hot coffee. When stored properly in the refrigerator, it can stay fresh for up to two weeks, but we recommend 2-5 days for optimal flavour. This makes it a convenient option for busy mornings or for those who prefer to batch-brew their coffee.
Versatility
Cold brew is incredibly versatile. You can enjoy it straight, over ice, or mix it with milk, cream, or your favourite flavoured syrups. It’s also a great base for iced lattes, coffee cocktails, and even coffee-infused desserts.
How to Brew Cold Brew Coffee at Home
Brewing cold brew at home is simple, but to get the best results, you need to start with the right ingredients and equipment. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your own cold brew coffee.
Step 1: Choose Your Coffee Beans
The first and most crucial step is selecting the right coffee beans. Always opt for wholebean coffee instead of pre-ground coffee. Whole beans retain their freshness and flavour much longer than ground coffee, ensuring your cold brew is as delicious as possible. We like to use lighter or medium roasts as they tend to have more fruity flavours and the cold brew process eliminates some of the acidity light roasts are known for, but do you!
Step 2: Grind the Beans
Cold brew requires a coarse grind. Set your grinder to a similar grind for French press or even a bit coarser. A coarse grind ensures that the water can extract the coffee’s flavours slowly and evenly without over-extracting, which can lead to bitterness. If you don’t have a grinder at home, consider investing in one, as freshly ground coffee is always superior in flavour. We have the Hario Mini Slim Plus available on our website. But, if you are making a lot of coffee, you might want ot look at an electric grinder like a Baratza Encore.
Step 3: Measure Your Coffee and Water
A good starting point for cold brew is a ratio of 1:16 – one part coffee to sixteen parts water. For example, if you’re using 1 cup of coffee beans, you’ll need 16 cups of water, but weighing with a scale is always the best method. Adjust the ratio to your taste preference, and start tasting at 12 hours and let it keep brewing until it is as flavourful as you want. Note: it can be overbrewed so don’t let it go longer than 24 hours. If you are brewing a concentrate to add to milk or cocktails, try a ratio of 1:4.
Step 4: Combine and Steep
Place the coarsely ground coffee in a large jar, pitcher, or cold brew maker. Pour the cold water over the grounds, ensuring they’re fully saturated. Stir gently to make sure all the coffee grounds are in contact with the water. Cover the container and let it steep in the refrigerator for 12 to 24 hours. If you have a cheesecloth or tea steeping bag, they will work too, but they will become stained and may always have a coffee flavour.
Step 5: Strain the Coffee
After the steeping period, it’s time to strain the coffee. Use a fine mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or a coffee filter to remove the grounds from the liquid. Strain it slowly to avoid any sediment in your final brew.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your cold brew concentrate is now ready! Serve it over ice and dilute it with water, milk, or a non-dairy alternative to taste. You can also add a splash of vanilla extract, sweetener, or any other flavourings you enjoy.
Why Wholebean Coffee is a Must
Using wholebean coffee for your cold brew isn’t just a preference—it’s a necessity for the best flavour. Here’s why:
Freshness: Whole beans stay fresh longer than pre-ground coffee. When you grind coffee, it starts to lose its flavour and aroma almost immediately. By grinding your coffee just before brewing, you ensure maximum freshness and flavour.
Control: Grinding your own coffee allows you to control the grind size, which is essential for cold brew. A coarse grind is necessary to prevent over-extraction, and pre-ground coffee is often too fine for this purpose.
Quality: Whole beans are often higher quality than pre-ground coffee. When you choose wholebean coffee, you can inspect the beans and select a roast that suits your taste, ensuring a better overall brew.
There ya go - you’re ready to brew!
Cold brew coffee is more than just a trend—it’s a delicious and versatile way to enjoy your coffee. By following these simple steps and always using wholebean coffee, you can brew a cold brew that’s rich, smooth, and full of flavour. So next time you’re craving a cool, refreshing coffee, skip the drive-thru and make your own cold brew at home. Your taste buds, your wallet AND your tummy will thank you!