Easy Cold Brew Coffee Recipe
A simple, no-fuss cold brew you can make at home with minimal equipment. Smooth, low-acidity coffee concentrate that stores well and tastes great over ice or with milk.
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Cold Brew Concentrate
- 1 1/8 cup coarsely ground coffee
- 4 1/2 cups cold filtered water
- 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional, for subtle sweetness)
To Serve (optional)
- handful ice cubes
- to taste milk or dairy-free milk
- to taste liquid sweetener (simple syrup, maple syrup, or flavored syrup)
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Combine the ground coffee and water in a large jar or pitcher. Pour the water in a slow, steady stream while stirring gently to make sure all grounds are wetted.
- Add the vanilla extract, if using, and give the mixture one more gentle stir. Cover the container with a lid or plastic wrap.
- Let the coffee steep undisturbed in the refrigerator for about 16 hours (12–20 hours will work depending on how strong you like it).
- Line a fine-mesh sieve with a double layer of cheesecloth or a paper coffee filter and set it over a clean jar or bowl. Pour the steeped coffee through the sieve slowly to separate most of the grounds.
- For a clearer concentrate, strain the coffee a second time through a fresh paper filter or a very fine mesh. Gently press with a spoon—don't force—so you don't push fine sediment through.
- Transfer the finished cold brew concentrate to an airtight container and refrigerate. Serve over ice diluted to taste (common ratio 1:1 concentrate to water or milk), then sweeten if desired.
- Store leftover cold brew refrigerated for up to 10 days; shake gently before using as the concentrate can settle.
Notes
Make a large batch and dilute per cup so you can customize strength for family members. For a richer mouthfeel, use a 2:1 ratio of concentrate to milk instead of water.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Cold Brew Coffee Recipe flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.