How to Make Cold Brew Coffee

Updated April 2026Coffee guide

Cold Brew Coffee Guide

Cold brew is coffee steeped in cold water for 12-24 hours. It's smooth, low-acid, and stays fresh in the fridge for 2 weeks.

What You Need

  • Coarse ground coffee (texture like breadcrumbs)
  • Cold filtered water
  • Large jar or pitcher
  • Strainer or coffee filter

Steps

1. Ratio: Use 1:5 coffee to water for concentrate (dilute later) or 1:8 for ready-to-drink. Example: 100g coffee + 500g water.

2. Combine: Add grounds to jar, pour cold water over, stir gently to saturate all grounds.

3. Steep: Cover and refrigerate 12-24 hours. 12 hours = bright, 18 hours = balanced, 24 hours = strong.

4. Strain: Pour through fine mesh strainer or coffee filter. May need 2 passes for clarity.

5. Dilute & Serve: If concentrate, mix 1:1 with water or milk. Serve over ice.

Tips

  • Don't use fine grounds - makes bitter, muddy coffee
  • Cold brew is 67% less acidic than hot coffee
  • Stays fresh refrigerated for 2 weeks

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