How to Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cold brew is smooth, low-acidity, and perfect for summer—or anytime, really. The best part? You can make it easily at home with just a few tools and the right beans. Let’s break it down.
Why Cold Brew?
Unlike iced coffee, which is brewed hot and then chilled, cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for 12 to 18 hours. This slow extraction creates a flavor that is:
- Less acidic
- Smoother and rounder
- Naturally sweet
- Highly caffeinated
“Cold brew isn’t just a summer drink—it’s a smooth, rich way to enjoy coffee year-round.”
A mason jar filled with dark cold brew concentrate on a countertop with ice and coffee beans scattered nearby
What You’ll Need
- Coarse-ground specialty coffee (preferably medium to dark roast)
- Cold or room-temperature filtered water
- Glass jar, French press, or cold brew maker
- Fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth (if not using a cold brew system)
💡 Tip: Cold brew works best with coarsely ground, freshly roasted beans. Want to skip the guesswork?
Step-by-Step: Cold Brew Method
Step 1: Choose Your Ratio
A good starting ratio is 1:8 — one part coffee to eight parts water. For example:
- 100g (3.5 oz) coffee to 800ml (27 oz) water
Step 2: Combine and Stir
Place the coffee grounds in your jar or French press. Pour in the water and stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated.
Step 3: Steep for 12–18 Hours
Cover and leave the mixture at room temperature or in the fridge. The longer the steep, the stronger the brew. Avoid over-steeping—it can become bitter past 20 hours.
Step 4: Strain
Use a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or a filter to remove the grounds. What you now have is cold brew concentrate.
Step 5: Dilute and Serve
Cold brew concentrate is strong. We recommend a 1:1 dilution with water, milk, or a milk alternative. Serve over ice and enjoy.
Flavor Boosts (Optional)
- ✨ Add a cinnamon stick during steeping
- 🍊 Orange peel or cardamom for citrusy spice
- 🍯 Vanilla or maple syrup for sweetness
How Long Does Cold Brew Last?
Stored in the fridge, cold brew concentrate can last up to 7–10 days. For the freshest taste, drink within 5 days.
Pair It With the Right Coffee
Not all beans are created equal for cold brew. Look for:
- Medium to dark roast: chocolatey, nutty, smooth profiles
- Coarse grind: prevents over-extraction
- Single origin or blend: crafted for immersion brewing
☕ Want the perfect cold brew beans? Try our Cold Brew Coffee — curated for deep flavor and silky texture.
Cold Brew vs. Iced Coffee: What’s the Difference?
- Cold Brew: Steeped cold, low acidity, strong and smooth
- Iced Coffee: Brewed hot and cooled, brighter and lighter
Cold brew wins when you want mellow richness without the bite.
Ready to Brew Like a Pro?
Cold brew is simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable. With the right beans and a little patience, you’ll have café-quality results at home.
Shop our Cold Brew Coffee here.
"Cold brew is proof that patience brews perfection."