Cold Brew Coffee for Beginners
Cold Brew Coffee for Beginners is a smooth, low-acid coffee made by steeping coarse coffee grounds in cold water. This easy no-heat method creates a naturally sweet, refreshing coffee perfect for make-ahead mornings.
Servings: 4
Equipment
- Large jar or pitcher
- Spoon
- Fine mesh strainer
- Coffee filter or cheesecloth
- Second container
Ingredients
- 1 cup coarse ground coffee
- 4 cups cold filtered water
Serving (Optional)
ice cubes
milk or plant-based milk
simple syrup or vanilla syrup
Instructions
- Add coarse ground coffee to a large jar or pitcher.
- Pour in cold filtered water.
- Stir gently until all coffee grounds are fully wet.
- Cover the container and refrigerate for 12–18 hours.
- Strain the coffee through a fine mesh strainer, coffee filter, or cheesecloth into a clean container.
- Discard the grounds and store the cold brew concentrate in the refrigerator.
- To serve, fill a glass with ice, add cold brew, and dilute with water or milk to taste.
Notes
- Use coarse coffee grounds for best flavor and clarity
- Brew for 12 hours for light flavor, 16 hours for balanced, 18 hours for strong
- Do not brew longer than 24 hours to avoid bitterness
- Dilute cold brew concentrate before drinking
- Store cold brew covered in the fridge for up to 5 days
- Cold brew is naturally lower in acidity than hot coffee