Cold brew vs iced coffee
Iced coffee is made hot and then cooled, usually over ice. Cold brew never sees heat, so the extraction is slower and gentler. It brings out chocolate and caramel notes, and softens the sharp edges of acidity.
Concentrate recipe
- Coffee: 100 g, ground extra coarse
- Water: 800 g, cold and filtered (a 1:8 ratio)
- Time: 12–18 hours at room temperature, or 16–20 hours in the fridge
- Combine the coffee and water in a large jar and stir until all the grounds are wet.
- Cover and leave to steep.
- Strain through a fine mesh sieve, then again through a paper filter for a cleaner cup.
- Store the concentrate in a sealed bottle in the fridge.
How to serve
Dilute one part concentrate with one part cold water or milk, then pour over ice. Adjust to taste: try 1:1 first, then move to 1:2 if it is too strong.
Choosing coffee
Medium roasts with chocolate, nut and caramel notes are a safe choice, such as Brazil Cerrado Mineiro. Fruity light roasts also work, with a bright, juice-like character. Use a coarse setting from the grind size guide.
Storage
Keep concentrate covered in the fridge and drink it within about a week for the best flavor. If it starts to smell sour or off, throw it away.
Common problems
- Weak: use more coffee, or steep a few hours longer.
- Muddy or cloudy: the grind was too fine, or you skipped the second filtering.
- Bitter or woody: steep for less time.
Flavor ideas
Add a strip of orange peel or a cinnamon stick to the jar during the steep for a subtle twist. Serve over ice with a splash of milk, or top up with tonic water for a sparkling coffee drink.
Making a small batch
To make a smaller amount, use 50 g of coffee and 400 g of water. The ratio stays 1:8, and the steep time is the same.
Common questions
Is cold brew less acidic?
It usually tastes smoother and less sharp, though measured acidity levels are not dramatically different from hot coffee. The flavor is what most people notice.
Does cold brew have more caffeine?
The concentrate is strong, but it is diluted before drinking. The caffeine in your glass depends on the ratio you choose, so it can be similar to hot coffee.
Can I make cold brew with hot water to speed it up?
That is a different drink, known as iced coffee or flash brew. Cold brew depends on a long, cold steep to develop its smooth flavor.
