Cold brew has taken the coffee world by storm—and for good reason. It's smooth, naturally sweet, low in acidity, and incredibly refreshing. Whether you're a seasoned coffee lover or a curious beginner, learning how to make cold brew at home is easy and rewarding.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly what cold brew is, how it’s different from iced coffee, how to make it without a fancy machine, and what mistakes to avoid. Let’s dive in.
What Is Cold Brew Coffee?
Cold brew is a method of brewing coffee that uses cold or room temperature water and a long steeping time—typically 12 to 24 hours. Unlike traditional hot coffee, the grounds are never heated. This results in a mellow, full-bodied brew that’s less acidic and bitter.
The process is simple: coarse coffee grounds + cold water + time = magic.
Can I Make Cold Brew with Regular Coffee Grounds?
Technically, yes—but it’s not ideal. Cold brew works best with coarsely ground coffee, similar to the grind you'd use for a French press. Using regular (medium or fine) grounds can lead to over-extraction, which makes your cold brew bitter and sludgy.
If you only have pre-ground coffee, aim for a product labeled as coarse or cold brew-specific. For best results, grind your own beans or choose a freshly roasted option like our Known Quantity Blend, which works beautifully for cold brew.
What Is the Ratio of Coffee to Water for Cold Brew?
A good starting point is 1:4 to 1:5—that’s 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee to 4–5 cups of cold water.
This makes a concentrate, which you can dilute to your liking after brewing. If you want a ready-to-drink version instead, try a 1:8 ratio.
| Brew Style | Coffee | Water | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cold Brew Concentrate | 1 cup | 4 cups | Dilute 1:1 with water or milk |
| Ready-to-Drink Cold Brew | 1 cup | 8 cups | Drink as-is over ice |
Is Cold Brew the Same as Iced Coffee?
Nope, and that’s a common misconception.
Iced coffee is brewed hot and then chilled, which retains much of the acidity and sharpness of regular coffee. Cold brew, on the other hand, is never heated. This results in a smoother, less acidic, and often slightly sweeter flavor profile.
If you’ve ever sipped an iced coffee and thought, “This tastes a bit harsh,” cold brew might be your new go-to.
Is Cold Brew Coffee Healthier?
Cold brew isn’t inherently healthier, but it may be easier on your stomach due to its lower acidity.
Some people with acid sensitivity or digestive issues find that cold brew causes fewer problems than traditional hot coffee. Plus, its naturally sweet profile often means people use less sugar or cream, which can be a healthier choice overall.
Looking for a balanced, low-acid bean? Our Honduras Honey Organic is a fantastic choice—light, sweet, and perfect for cold brewing.
What Coffee Is Best for Cold Brew?
Cold brew tends to mute sharp notes and amplify chocolatey, nutty, and sweet flavors. That’s why medium to dark roasts often shine in cold brew.
Look for beans with tasting notes like chocolate, caramel, brown sugar, or dried fruit. Our Bright Eyes Blend is a fan favorite for its deep, bold flavor that holds up well even when diluted.
Avoid overly acidic or citrus-forward light roasts, as they can come out tasting flat or sour when brewed cold.
What Not to Do When Making Cold Brew
Avoid these common mistakes:
- Using the wrong grind: Fine grinds = over-extraction and sludge.
- Brewing too short: Less than 12 hours may result in weak coffee.
- Skipping the filter: Always strain your brew through a fine mesh or coffee filter.
- Letting it sit too long: 24 hours is the max—you'll start extracting unpleasant bitterness.
- Using stale beans: Cold brew is only as good as your coffee. Fresh is best.
How to Make Cold Brew at Home Without a Machine
No fancy equipment needed—just these basics:
You’ll need:
- A mason jar or pitcher
- Coarsely ground coffee (try our Known Quantity Blend)
- Cold or room temperature filtered water
- A strainer or coffee filter
Step-by-step:
- Add coffee to jar: Use 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee.
- Add water: Pour in 4 cups of cold, filtered water.
- Stir gently: Make sure all grounds are saturated.
- Cover and steep: Let sit at room temp or in the fridge for 12–18 hours.
- Strain: Use a fine mesh sieve or coffee filter to remove the grounds.
- Serve: Dilute 1:1 with water, milk, or over ice to taste.
Store your cold brew in the fridge for up to a week.
Final Pour
Cold brew is easy to make, endlessly customizable, and seriously delicious. Whether you like it straight-up, diluted, or splashed with oat milk, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. Just stick to good beans, the right grind, and enough steep time.
If you're ready to level up your cold brew game, try it with our Honduras Honey Organic, Bright Eyes Blend, or Known Quantity Blend. Your taste buds will thank you.
