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How to Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home

Education · From the Lab ·

How to Make Cold Brew Coffee at Home

Cold brew isn't complicated. Coarse coffee, cold water, time. That's it.

Glass mason jar filled with cold brew coffee and ice on wooden table

Cold brew isn't complicated. Coarse coffee, cold water, time. That's it.

But getting it right, smooth and rich instead of weak or bitter, requires understanding a few key variables. Here's everything you need to know to make great cold brew at home, plus the science behind why it works.

Glass of cold brew coffee with ice on dark rustic table

Why Cold Brew Tastes Different

Cold brew isn't just iced coffee. The brewing method fundamentally changes what ends up in your cup.

The Science of Cold Extraction

Temperature affects what gets extracted from coffee grounds. Research from UC Davis published in Scientific Reports found that hot coffee has approximately 28-50% higher total titratable acid concentration than cold brew, despite similar pH levels.

That lower acid extraction is why cold brew tastes smoother and less bitter. Cold water extracts flavor compounds more slowly and selectively, pulling sweetness and body while leaving behind many of the harsher acids.

The tradeoff: hot brew demonstrated superior antioxidant capacity in the same research (18.34-20.72 mmol Trolox equivalent/L vs. cold brew at 13.36-17.45). You get smoothness at the cost of some health compounds.

What You Get

Cold brew produces:

  • Lower perceived acidity, up to 60% less than traditional drip
  • Smoother, sweeter flavor, chocolate and caramel notes shine
  • Fuller body, rich, almost syrupy texture
  • Less bitterness, the compounds that create harsh flavors extract less efficiently in cold water

The Basic Cold Brew Recipe

This method works with any container you have, a Mason jar, a pitcher, even a French press.

Ingredients

  • Coffee: 1 cup coarsely ground (about 85g)
  • Water: 4 cups cold or room temperature (about 950ml)
  • Ratio: 1:4 for concentrate, 1:8 for ready-to-drink

Equipment

  • A jar or container with lid
  • A fine mesh strainer
  • Cheesecloth or paper coffee filter
  • A second container for the finished cold brew

Instructions

Step 1: Grind Your Coffee Use a medium-coarse grind,  the texture of kosher salt or coarse sea salt. Too fine and you'll over-extract; too coarse and it'll taste weak.

Step 2: Combine Coffee and Water Add ground coffee to your container. Pour in cold or room temperature water. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated.

Step 3: Steep Cover and let sit for 12-18 hours. Room temperature (68-72°F) extracts faster; refrigerator temperature (35-40°F) takes longer but offers more control.

Step 4: Strain Pour through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a paper filter. For the cleanest results, strain twice.

Step 5: Store and Serve Transfer to an airtight container. If you made concentrate (1:4 ratio), dilute with equal parts water or milk before drinking.

Getting the Ratio Right

The ratio of coffee to water determines strength and how you'll serve it.

Concentrate Ratios

Cold brew concentrate ratios range from 1:4 for strong concentrate that should be diluted 1:1 or 2:1 with water or milk, to 1:5 for standard concentrate that can be diluted to taste, and 1:8 for mild concentrate that needs only light dilution or can be enjoyed as-is.

Ready-to-Drink Ratios

For ready-to-drink cold brew ratios, 1:8 produces bold and strong coffee, 1:12 creates medium strength, and 1:15 yields light everyday drinking coffee, with a practical starting measurement of 28 grams of coffee per 1 cup (240ml) of water, though the concentrate method is more versatile since you can adjust strength for each serving and it takes up less fridge space.

Steep Time: Finding the Sweet Spot

How long you steep affects everything about flavor.

The Timeline

Cold brew steep time affects flavor dramatically: 8-12 hours produces lighter, more tea-like flavor, 12-18 hours hits the optimal range for most palates, 16-18 hours creates rich, full-bodied, smooth coffee, while 24+ hours risks over-extraction and bitterness, with US Barista Champion Andrea Allen recommending 12 hours for concentrate and noting that steeping beyond that can cause bitterness from oxidation.

Temperature Affects Time

  • Room temperature (68-72°F): 12-16 hours
  • Refrigerator (35-40°F): 18-24 hours

Cold slows extraction, so refrigerator steeping needs more time.

Important Rule

Don't extend steep time to make stronger cold brew, that leads to over-extraction and bitter compounds. Instead, adjust your coffee-to-water ratio.

Hands using manual coffee grinder with wooden top and glass base

Grind Size Matters

Grind size controls extraction rate. For cold brew's long steep time, you need coarse grounds.

Why Coarse?

Finer grinds have more surface area, which extracts faster. With a 12-18 hour steep, fine grounds would over-extract dramatically, pulling bitter, unpleasant compounds.

Coarse grounds extract slowly, which is exactly what you want when water and coffee spend so many hours together.

How Coarse?

Aim for the texture of:

  • Kosher salt
  • Coarse sea salt
  • Breadcrumbs

Extra coarse grounds measure approximately 1,400-1,600 microns. If you don't have a grinder with settings, err on the side of coarser, you can always steep longer, but you can't un-extract bitterness.

Modern Understanding

The specialty coffee industry has evolved its thinking: because cold water extracts slowly anyway, you don't need to grind as coarse as once thought. A medium-coarse grind (rather than extra-coarse) can extract more pleasant flavors over time without over-extracting.

Straining for a Clean Cup

Proper filtration is the difference between smooth cold brew and gritty sludge.

Methods (Best to Good)

  1. Fine mesh strainer + paper filter, double filtration for cleanest results
  2. Cheesecloth (Grade 90) over strainer, tight weave catches fines
  3. French press, built-in metal filter, convenient but less clean
  4. Nut milk bag, reusable, fine mesh

Pro Tips

  • Use Grade 90 (tight weave) cheesecloth; loose weave lets sediment through
  • Layer 2-4 sheets for finer filtration
  • Pour slowly to avoid pushing fines through
  • Let cold brew settle in the fridge for 2 hours after straining, fine particles sink to the bottom

Storage and Shelf Life

Cold brew lasts longer than hot-brewed coffee, but not forever.

How Long It Keeps

Cold brew shelf life varies by type when refrigerated: undiluted concentrate lasts 7-14 days, diluted cold brew keeps for 2-3 days, and cold brew with milk or cream added should be consumed within 1-2 days.

The National Coffee Association confirms cold brew is "perfectly safe when prepared, stored, and served properly."

Best Practices

  • Store in airtight glass containers (Mason jars work great)
  • Keep at 40-46°F (4-8°C)
  • Store undiluted, add milk or sweeteners only when serving
  • If it smells off or tastes sour, discard it

Caffeine: The Concentrate Question

Cold brew has a reputation for being highly caffeinated. The truth is more nuanced.

The Numbers

Caffeine content varies by beverage type: undiluted cold brew concentrate contains 240-280mg per 12 oz, diluted cold brew has approximately 150-200mg per 12 oz, and hot brewed coffee contains around 144mg per 12 oz.

Cold brew concentrate contains more caffeine because it's made with 2-2.5x more coffee than drip. But once you dilute it 1:1, caffeine levels are comparable to regular coffee.

Research from PMC found caffeine concentrations were comparable regardless of brewing temperature, suggesting that cold brew's longer steep time compensates for cold water's less efficient extraction.

Cold Brew vs. Japanese Iced Coffee

Cold brew isn't the only way to make cold coffee. Japanese iced coffee (flash brew) offers a different approach.

The Difference

Cold brew and Japanese iced coffee differ significantly: cold brew uses cold water and steeps for 12-24 hours producing smooth, low-acid, chocolatey flavor with heavy, full body, while Japanese iced coffee uses hot near-boiling water and brews in just 2-4 minutes creating bright, acidic, fruit-forward flavor with light, crisp body.

Which is better? Neither, they're different drinks. Cold brew for smooth and mellow; flash brew for bright and complex.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best ratio for cold brew?

For concentrate, use a 1:4 to 1:8 coffee-to-water ratio (1 part coffee to 4-8 parts water). Dilute concentrate 1:1 with water or milk when serving. For ready-to-drink cold brew, use 1:12 to 1:15. Start with 28 grams of coffee per cup of water and adjust to taste.

How long should cold brew steep?

12-18 hours produces the best results for most people. Shorter steeps taste weak and tea-like; longer than 24 hours risks over-extraction and bitterness. At room temperature, 12-16 hours is sufficient; in the refrigerator, allow 18-24 hours.

Does cold brew have more caffeine?

Undiluted cold brew concentrate has more caffeine than regular coffee because it uses more grounds. However, once diluted for drinking (typically 1:1), caffeine content is comparable to drip coffee, roughly 150-200 mg per 12 oz serving.

How long does homemade cold brew last?

Undiluted concentrate keeps 7-14 days refrigerated in an airtight container. Once diluted or mixed with milk, consume within 2-3 days. Store at 40-46°F and discard if it develops off odors or sour taste.

What grind size is best for cold brew?

Medium-coarse to coarse, the texture of kosher salt. Coarse grounds prevent over-extraction during the long steep time. Too fine leads to bitter, muddy cold brew. If you don't have a grinder, ask your roaster to grind for cold brew specifically.

Pouring cold brew coffee from glass carafe into glass with ice

The Bottom Line

Cold brew is forgiving and flexible. Coarse grind, 1:4 to 1:8 ratio, 12-18 hours steeping, strain well. That's the formula.

Once you nail the basics, experiment. Try different origins, naturally processed coffees bring out berry and tropical notes that shine in cold brew. Adjust ratios to your taste. Add a pinch of salt to enhance sweetness.

At Ember, we recommend our medium and dark roasts for cold brew, their chocolate and caramel notes become rich and smooth when cold-extracted. But any quality coffee works. The method is simple; the beans make it special.

Shop our air-roasted coffees →

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Navigating the Coffee Crisis
A Minnesota Roaster's Perspective As the sun rises over the snowy landscape of Minnesota, the aroma of freshly roasted coffee wafts through the air at Ember Coffee's roastery. It's a scent that has become increasingly precious in recent months, as the coffee industry grapples with unprecedented challenges. As a local roaster deeply committed to our community, we want to share our journey through these turbulent times and our vision for the future. The Perfect Storm Brewing in Our Cups The story of today's coffee crisis begins far from our cozy Minnesota cafes, in the lush hillsides of Colombia and the vast plantations of Brazil. A series of events have converged to create what many in the industry are calling a "perfect storm": Climate Chaos: Mother Nature has not been kind to coffee growers lately. In Brazil, the world's largest coffee producer, severe droughts followed by unexpected frosts have decimated crops. Farmers watched helplessly as their carefully tended plants withered under the scorching sun or succumbed to the icy grip of frost. The result? A staggering 40% reduction in yields in some areas. Unseasonal Deluges: Meanwhile, in Vietnam, the second-largest coffee producer globally, unseasonal rains have wreaked havoc. Coffee cherries, which should have been ripening under gentle sunshine, instead rotted on the branches, leading to significant crop losses and quality issues. Geopolitical Jitters: As if weather woes weren't enough, the coffee market found itself caught in a political crossfire. In early 2025, rumors swirled about potential U.S. tariffs on Colombian coffee. Though never implemented, the mere whisper of trade restrictions sent prices soaring by 15% in just a week, highlighting the fragility of global coffee trade relationships. Supply Chain Snarls: The journey of coffee beans from farm to cup has become increasingly complex and costly. Ongoing logistical challenges, exacerbated by fuel price hikes and labor shortages, have inflated transportation costs. The price of shipping a container of coffee has tripled since 2023, adding another layer of pressure to already strained margins. Market Speculation: As news of crop failures and potential shortages spread like wildfire, market speculators pounced. Their actions drove coffee futures to unprecedented heights, with the C-market price for Arabica coffee reaching a jaw-dropping $3.84 per pound in February 2025 – a 47-year high. The Ripple Effect Reaches Minnesota Here at Ember Coffee, nestled in the heart of Minnesota's vibrant coffee scene, we've felt the tremors of these global shifts. The impact on our operations and community has been profound: Margin Squeeze: Green coffee now accounts for a staggering 60-70% of our production costs, up from 40-50% just two years ago. This dramatic increase, coupled with rising energy and labor costs, has put immense pressure on our margins. Sourcing Struggles: Maintaining the consistent flavor profiles our customers love has become increasingly challenging. We've had to be more flexible in our sourcing, sometimes substituting origins or adjusting roast profiles to compensate for changes in bean characteristics. Pricing Predicaments: As a community-focused roaster, we're acutely aware of the impact price increases have on our customers. We've been forced to make difficult decisions about when and how to adjust our pricing to reflect the new market realities while remaining accessible to our loyal patrons. Crafting a Sustainable Future, One Bean at a Time Despite these challenges, we at Ember Coffee believe that this crisis presents an opportunity for positive change. Like the phoenix rising from the ashes, we're determined to emerge stronger and more sustainable. Here's how we're adapting: Nurturing Direct Trade Relationships: We're doubling down on our direct trade partnerships, offering long-term contracts at stable prices to our farmer partners. This approach not only secures our access to high-quality beans but also provides farmers with the financial security to invest in sustainable practices and climate adaptation measures. Diversifying Our Offerings: To offset rising costs and keep things exciting for our customers, we're expanding our product range. Limited edition micro-lots, experimental processing methods, and unique Minnesota-inspired coffee blends are just a few of the innovations we're exploring. Empowering Through Education: We believe that an informed customer is a loyal customer. We've launched a series on Roasting 101 on our YouTube site, and we're planning a Coffee 101 cupping sessions at our Big Lake roastery. These programs help our community understand the complexities of coffee production and pricing, fostering a deeper appreciation for the craft behind each cup. The Power of the Minnesota Coffee Lover As we navigate these challenges, the support and understanding of our customers are more crucial than ever. Here's how Minnesota coffee enthusiasts can contribute to a more sustainable coffee ecosystem: Embrace Transparency: We encourage our customers to ask questions about pricing, sourcing, and roasting practices. Understanding the true cost of producing exceptional coffee can help justify price adjustments when necessary. Value Quality Over Quantity: By choosing to invest in higher-quality, ethically sourced coffee, consumers can help support fair wages for farmers and sustainable agricultural practices. Support Local Roasters: Minnesota's local roasters, like Ember Coffee, are deeply invested in our communities. By choosing local over national chains, consumers help keep money circulating in the local economy and support businesses that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing. Experiment with Brewing Methods: Different brewing methods can extract unique flavors from coffee beans. By exploring various brewing techniques, consumers can maximize the value and enjoyment they get from each bag of coffee. Envisioning a Brighter Future for Minnesota Coffee As we look to the horizon, we see challenges, but also immense potential. Our vision for the future of specialty coffee in Minnesota is one of resilience, innovation, and community: A More Resilient Supply Chain: We're exploring collaborations with other Minnesota roasters to potentially secure better prices and more stable supply chains through collective purchasing power. Increased Local Collaboration: We envision a future where coffee is increasingly integrated into Minnesota's local food scene. Imagine coffee-infused craft beers, chocolate truffles featuring our single-origin roasts, or seasonal menus at local restaurants built around coffee pairings. Innovation in Sustainability: We're investing in research on more sustainable packaging options and exploring ways to upcycle coffee chaff and other by-products of the roasting process. Our goal is to minimize our environmental impact while maximizing the value we create. A More Educated Consumer Base: Through continued education efforts, we aim to cultivate a community of coffee enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship behind every cup and understand the global impact of their purchasing decisions. Conclusion: United in Our Love for Great Coffee As the aroma of freshly roasted coffee continues to fill our roastery, we're reminded of why we do what we do. The current coffee price crisis is undoubtedly one of the most significant challenges our industry has faced in decades. However, at Ember Coffee, we believe that by staying true to our values of quality, sustainability, and community, we can not only weather this storm but emerge stronger on the other side. To our loyal customers and coffee lovers across Minnesota: your support during these turbulent times means more than you know. Every bag of Ember Coffee you purchase, every latte you enjoy in our cafe, is a vote for a more sustainable and equitable coffee future. As we navigate these uncharted waters, we remain committed to transparency, quality, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect cup. Together, we can ensure that Minnesota remains a beacon of excellence in the world of specialty coffee, no matter what challenges lie ahead. Thank you for being part of our journey, for your understanding during these difficult times, and for your unwavering love of great coffee. Here's to many more shared moments over a steaming cup of Minnesota's finest brew. Warmly,The Ember Coffee Team
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