Making Cold Brew Coffee – 2 Easy Methods

by
Making Cold Brew Coffee

As someone who is not a morning person, I often find myself rushed for time in the mornings. I NEED my coffee before starting any activities. The day I tried cold brew, I was completely converted. Ever since, cold brew is my choice for cold, iced coffee.

In this post, I’m going to guide you through 2 different methods for making your own cold brew. If you love iced coffee, you’re going to enjoy this. 

Tips Before We Start:

  • Ratio – 1 cup of beans to 4 cups of water.
    • This will yield 5-6 cups of coffee.
  • Use a coarse grind – start with something similar to beach sand, cornmeal, or raw sugar.
    • This prevents the brew from getting bitter overnight.
  • Steep for at least 12 hours but no more than 24 hours.
  • Dilute with water at a ratio of ¾ coffee to ¼ water.
  • Use filtered water for the cleanest cup.

Mason Jar Method:

Making Cold Brew Coffee with a Mason Jar
  • Equipment Needed:
    • Mason Jar
    • Cheesecloth or flour sack cloth.
    • Coffee Grounds or Whole Beans
    • Water
    • Grinder (if you’re using Whole Beans)
  • Steps:
    • Grind the coffee beans coarse.
    • Combine the grounds and water, then stir, ensuring all the grounds are wet.
    • Put the lid on and let it steep for 12 hours.
    • Strain, but DO NOT squeeze. This will extract the bitter flavors.
    • Serve with ice. Add milk or sweetener to your liking.

French Press Method:

Making Cold Brew Coffee with a French Press
  • Equipment Needed:
    • French Press
    • Coffee Grounds or Whole Beans
    • Water
    • Grinder (if you’re using Whole Beans)
  • Steps:
    • Grind the coffee beans coarse.
    • Place the plunger lid on top. Press plunger until it barely touches the brew.
    • Let it steep for 16-18 hours.
    • Strain by pressing the plunger down with even pressure.
    • Serve with ice. Add milk or sweetener to your liking.

As you can see, cold brew coffee is extremely easy to make. No need for anything fancy. No need for specific coffee to water ratios. However, I do admit, having a cold brew maker would make your life easier.

The taste is amazing as well: refreshing, sweet, less acidic and bitter than your average iced coffee.

If you’re often pushed for time in the mornings or want something different than iced coffee, this is a wonderful alternative.

To see what other coffee-making methods are out there, check out our guide on the different coffee-brewing methods.

Leave a Comment