Welcome to the world of cold brew coffee! This method, which originated in Japan in the 1600s, has gained popularity worldwide for its smooth, less acidic flavor profile. Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for 12-24 hours, resulting in a concentrated coffee that's perfect for serving over ice.
The key to great cold brew lies in the beans and the grind. Use a medium to dark roast coffee, coarsely ground to resemble breadcrumbs. This allows for optimal extraction without over-extraction, which can lead to bitterness. The long steeping process at room temperature or in the refrigerator extracts the coffee's rich flavors while leaving behind much of the acidity, resulting in a smooth, full-bodied brew that's perfect for customizing with your favorite milk, sweeteners, or flavors.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Get ready to fall in love with cold brew coffee! Here's why you'll adore this recipe:
- Smooth and Less Acidic: The cold brewing process results in a coffee that's 67% less acidic than hot brewed coffee, making it easier on your stomach.
- Versatile: Enjoy it black, with milk, or use it as a base for creative coffee drinks.
- Time-Saving: Make a big batch that stays fresh in the fridge for up to 2 weeks.
- Customizable: Easily adjust the strength by changing the coffee-to-water ratio.
- Perfect for Hot Days: No need to wait for your hot coffee to cool down - it's ready to pour over ice!
Smooth Cold Brew Coffee
Equipment
- Large jar or pitcher
- Fine-mesh sieve
- Cheesecloth or coffee filter
- Glass for serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup (100g) coarsely ground coffee beans (medium to dark roast)
- 4 cups (960ml) cold filtered water
- Ice cubes, for serving
- Milk or cream (optional)
- Sweetener of choice (optional)
Instructions
- In a large jar or pitcher, combine the coarsely ground coffee and cold water. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are wet.
- Cover the container and let it steep at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours.
- After steeping, strain the coffee through a fine-mesh sieve lined with cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean container.
- To serve, fill a glass with ice cubes and pour the cold brew over. Dilute with water if desired, and add milk and sweetener to taste.
- Store the remaining cold brew concentrate in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
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