Cold brew is coffee steeped in cold water for many hours instead of brewed hot. The result is smooth, sweet and easy to drink. Because cold water extracts differently than hot water, the beans you choose matter.
What to look for in cold brew coffee
- Coarse grind. Coarse grounds are easier to strain and keep the brew from turning bitter during a long steep.
- Medium roast. It gives you sweetness and body without the ashy edge very dark roasts can bring.
- Chocolate, caramel and nutty notes. Cold brewing mutes bright, fruity acidity, so rich flavors come through best.
Our top picks for cold brew
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Cold Brew Blend
Our blend built for cold brew and nitro. Smooth chocolate and toffee with a floral lift.
Shop Cold Brew Blend · $24.99 -
Brazil Santos
Smooth body with mandarin orange and chocolate. An easy, crowd-pleasing cold brew.
Shop Brazil Santos · $24.99 -
Mexican Chocolate
Cocoa, cinnamon and vanilla. Makes a dessert-like iced coffee with no added sugar needed.
Shop Mexican Chocolate · $24.99 -
Mexico Chiapas
Creamy body with brown sugar and dark chocolate. Great with milk over ice.
Shop Mexico Chiapas · $24.99
Easy cold brew recipe
- Combine coarse coffee and cold water at about 1 part coffee to 4 or 5 parts water for a concentrate. For example, 85 grams of coffee to 400 grams of water.
- Stir, cover and steep at room temperature or in the fridge for about 12 hours.
- Strain through a fine mesh strainer or paper filter.
- Dilute the concentrate with water or milk to taste, then serve over ice.
See our full cold brew guide for tips on ratios and storage.
Stock up for summer, or all year
Cold brew uses more coffee than hot brewing, so it pays to buy a few bags at once. Build a Box with any 3 bags to save 10%, or 6 bags to save 15%.
FAQ
Is cold brew stronger than regular coffee?
Cold brew concentrate is strong, but most people dilute it. Once diluted, the strength is similar to a regular cup.
Can I use dark roast for cold brew?
Yes. Dark roast makes a bold, chocolatey cold brew. If it tastes bitter, try a medium roast or a shorter steep.
Why is coarse grind best for cold brew?
Fine grounds over-extract during a long steep and are hard to strain. Coarse grounds give a cleaner, sweeter cup.
