Cold Brew Coffee Recipe: Brew Smooth Coffee at Home

Learn how to make smooth, low-acid cold brew coffee at home. You only need coarsely ground coffee, cold water, a filter, and a jar or French press. This method is simple, forgiving, and produces a concentrate you can enjoy all week.

Homemade Cold Brew

Cold brew is essentially a long, cold extraction: coarsely ground coffee steeps in cold water for many hours, then the grounds are strained out. The process involves just two main steps—steep and filter—but a few small choices (grind size, ratio, steep time, and filtration method) can change the final flavor. Below is a clear guide to help you make delicious cold brew at home.

Tools You’ll Need

In addition to coffee and water, a few basic tools will make the process easier: a grinder for fresh whole beans, a large jar or French press for steeping, and something to filter the brew such as a fine sieve, cheesecloth, or coffee filter. A 32-ounce mason jar is a convenient, inexpensive option.

What container to use

A French press or a dedicated cold brew container works well because both include built-in filtration options. If you don’t have one, a wide-mouth mason jar or any large, non-reactive container will do. Cover the jar while it steeps to prevent odors or debris from getting in.

Ways to Filter Cold Brew

To achieve a smooth, grit-free cup, filter the brewed mixture through something that catches grounds but does not absorb the liquid. Good options are:

• Paper basket coffee filters placed in a fine sieve
• Coffee filter lined over a sieve or funnel
• A thin tea towel or a couple of layers of cheesecloth over a fine mesh sieve
• Using a French press plunger to separate grounds from liquid

Cold Brew Coffee Ratio

The ratio we recommend is 1:3—one cup of coarsely ground coffee to three cups of cold water. This creates a strong, concentrated brew that’s balanced and not overly bitter. If you prefer something lighter, you can use a 1:4 ratio or dilute the finished concentrate before serving.

All About the Coffee Beans

Freshness, bean type, and grind size matter for cold brew:

• Use coarsely ground coffee to avoid a muddy, over-extracted brew. If you only have fine grounds, be sure to filter carefully.
• Any roast or origin is suitable—use your favorite bean to shape the flavor profile.
• Grind whole beans just before brewing for the best flavor. One cup of whole beans yields about one cup of coarsely ground coffee.

How to Make Cold Brew Coffee

1. Grind: Grind about 1 cup of whole beans to a coarse, even texture. You should end up with ~1 cup of coarsely ground coffee.
2. Combine: Place the grounds in a large jar or French press and pour 3 cups of cold water over them. Stir gently until all grounds are wet. Let it sit for about 5 minutes and stir again to break up any clumps.
3. Steep: Seal the container and let it steep in the refrigerator (or at room temperature) for 12–18 hours. Refrigerator brewing slows extraction and keeps flavors clean; counter brewing can be used if you prefer.
4. Strain: Use a fine mesh sieve lined with a thin towel, cheesecloth, or paper filter to strain the grounds. If you used a French press, press and pour through a second filter for extra clarity.
5. Serve: Pour concentrate over ice. For a standard serving, mix equal parts cold brew concentrate and water or milk, or adjust to taste. Add cream, milk, or simple syrup if desired.

More Facts About Cold Brew Coffee

Cold Brew Is Less Acidic

Because cold brew uses cold water, it extracts fewer of the acids and oils that come out during hot brewing. The result is a smoother cup that many people find easier on the stomach.

How to Serve Cold Brew

Serve concentrated cold brew over ice, diluted to your liking. If you prefer a richer drink, add a splash of heavy cream or 1–2 teaspoons of simple syrup for sweetness. Cold brew is also an excellent base for iced lattes or milk-based drinks.

How Long Does Cold Brew Last?

Store cold brew in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best flavor, use within about 5 days.

The Best Store-Bought Options

If you prefer to buy cold brew, look for reputable concentrates and ready-to-drink bottles from brands you trust. Store-bought cold brew can be a convenient option on busy days.

Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans (about 1 cup whole beans before grinding)
• 3 cups cold water
• Optional: cream or milk for serving

Instructions

1. Grind whole beans to a medium-coarse setting.
2. Combine grounds and water in a jar or French press, stirring until all grounds are wet. Let rest 5 minutes and stir again.
3. Seal the jar and refrigerate or leave at room temperature to steep for 12–18 hours.
4. Strain the brew through a towel or cheesecloth-lined sieve, or pour through a paper filter to remove fine particles.
5. Serve over ice. Dilute concentrate with water or milk to taste and add sweetener or cream if desired.

Tips & Notes

• The 1:3 ratio yields a strong concentrate—dilute before serving if you prefer a milder cup.
• Storage: Refrigerate in an airtight container and consume within about 5 days for best flavor.

Nutrition (per serving, approximate)

• Serving: 1 of 6
• Calories: 8 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Fiber: 0 g
• Sugar: 0 g

Nutrition information is an approximation.