How to Make Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee is such an easy drink to make, perfect as a base for coffee flavoured drinks and cakes, or just as simple to enjoy over ice. To make cold brew coffee you need whole coffee beans, a grinder, filtered water, a Kilner jar and a fine strainer or cheesecloth. 

  • Measure out 50 grams of coarsely ground coffee.

  • Place the coffee grounds in the jar or pitcher.

  • Slowly Pour 400g or ml of filtered water over the grounds.

  • Stir the mixture until the grounds are thoroughly saturated.

  • Place the jar or pitcher in the refrigerator and let the grounds steep for at least 12 hours.

  • Pour through a fine mesh strainer or cheese cloth.

  • Store in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to a week, but best enjoyed straight away.

The Science Behind Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brewing coffee is a process in which water slowly extracts the flavour and caffeine from coffee grounds over a period of time, usually at least 12 hours. Cold brew coffee has been found to contain less acidity than traditionally brewed coffee, resulting in a smoother, less bitter cup of coffee with a richer flavour. The cold brew method is a great way to reduce the acidity of coffee while still preserving its flavour.

The scientists at the Thomas Jefferson University even took to studying the effect of the roast on cold brew. Which might be something to look into if you want to buy your coffee beans specifically for cold brew coffee. In the study they also talk about the effects of triple-filtering your coffee, using different ratios, and the colder you are storing it, the longer you should leave to steep. All very fascinating details for taking it that level further.

The Perfect Ratio for Cold Brew Coffee

The cold brew method typically uses between 1:8 and 1:10 coffee-to-water ratio and is what we recommended as a starting point for most cold brew recipes. Just like dialling in great coffee, you can adjust all the different variables until you make your perfect batch. Once the cold brew is made, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can mix up your ratios depending on the type of coffee you are brewing, as well adjusting the grind size and steep time will all have an effect on the output of the cold brew coffee.

Remember to keep track of your recipes in your barista diary, the more data, the more you learn.

How to Serve Cold Brew Coffee

It is best to enjoy it cold or over ice, with the addition of milk, cream, syrups or sweeteners as desired. Serve in a tall glass with clear ice cubes on a hot summers day for maximum wow factor. 

History of Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee has been brewed for centuries. During the 1600s in Kyoto, Japan, people brewed cold coffee for a smoother taste. The process was later perfected by Dutch traders in the 1800s and has become popular around the world with the third wave coffee revolution in recent years.

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