The Ultimate Guide to Making Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate at Home

“I can’t start the day without my morning coffee.”

We feel you.

But if you’re running late for work just to squeeze that perfect cup in, sometimes the process of brewing it can feel like a chore, especially during busier months.

Enter: Menotti's Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate Recipe!

In this blog feature, we'll take you through the ins and outs of creating the perfect cold brew coffee concentrate in the comfort of your own home. So, grab your coffee beans, and let's get started!

What is Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate?

Before we dive into the recipe, let's clarify what cold brew coffee concentrate actually is. Cold brew is not the same as iced coffee; it's a unique brewing method that results in a highly concentrated coffee extract.

This concentrate can be used as a base for a variety of coffee beverages, offering a smooth and less acidic flavor profile.

The Ingredients You'll Need For The Best Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate

To create a delicious cold brew coffee concentrate, you'll need the following ingredients:

1. Coarsely Ground Coffee Beans

Start with high-quality coffee beans and grind them coarsely. The coarser grind is essential to prevent over-extraction and bitterness in your concentrate.

We love to use the ‘Brazil Fazeinda Rainha’ for cold brew because it’s full-bodied flavor and notes of caramel, nutty notes are accentuated by the process.

2. Cold, Filtered Water

Using cold and filtered water ensures that your cold brew concentrate remains crisp and clean in flavor.

3. A Large Jar or Container

You'll need a container with a lid to steep your coffee grounds in.

4. Filter or Coffee Filter Papers

To strain the coffee grounds from the concentrate.

The Equipment You'll Require For The Perfect Cold Brew Coffee At Home

Before we proceed, gather the necessary equipment:

1. Coffee Grinder

To grind your coffee beans to the desired coarseness.

2. Large Mason Jar or Pitcher

A container to brew your concentrate in.

3. Fine-Mesh Sieve or Menotti’s socks (just kidding)

To strain the coffee grounds from the concentrate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate

Now that you have everything ready, let's dive into the process of making cold brew coffee concentrate:

Step 1 - Coffee-to-Water Ratio

Begin by measuring out your coffee-to-water ratio. A general guideline is 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee beans to 4 cups of cold, filtered water.

Step 2 - Grinding the Coffee Beans

Grind your coffee beans to a coarse consistency. This prevents the coffee from becoming overly bitter during the extended brewing process.

Step 3 - Combining Coffee and Water

In your mason jar or pitcher, combine the coarsely ground coffee and cold, filtered water. Stir gently to ensure that all the coffee grounds are saturated.

Step 4 - Steeping

Place the lid on your container and let it steep in the refrigerator for a minimum of 12 hours, or up to 24 hours for a stronger concentrate.

Step 5 - Straining

After steeping, strain the concentrate using a fine-mesh sieve. This will remove all the coffee grounds, leaving you with a smooth concentrate.

Step 6 - Dilution

When serving, dilute the concentrate with cold water or milk to your desired strength. Typically, a 1:1 ratio of concentrate to water/milk works well.

Step 7 - Sweetening and Flavoring (Optional)

Add sweeteners and flavorings like sugar, syrups, or spices to customize your cold brew to your taste.

Why Choose Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate?

1. Less Acidity

Cold brew coffee concentrate is less acidic than traditional hot-brewed coffee, making it a great option for those with sensitive stomachs.

2. Versatility

You can use cold brew concentrate as a base for various coffee beverages, from iced lattes to coffee cocktails.

3. Longer Shelf Life

The concentrate can be stored in the fridge for up to two weeks, allowing you to enjoy a refreshing cup of cold brew anytime.

Tips for the Perfect Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate

1. Experiment with Brew Times

Feel free to experiment with steeping times to find your preferred flavor profile. Shorter steeping times result in a milder concentrate, while longer times yield a stronger brew.

2. Keep It Cold

Always store your concentrate in the refrigerator to maintain its freshness and flavor.

3. Customize Your Brew

Don't be afraid to experiment with different coffee beans and flavor additions to create your signature cold brew.

Conclusion

Creating your cold brew coffee concentrate is a rewarding and delicious endeavor. With the right ingredients, equipment, and a little patience, you can enjoy a refreshing cup of cold brew coffee tailored to your taste.

Your boss will thank you for being on time at work and so will your tastebuds! 

Cold Brew Coffee Concentrate Recipe FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Is cold brew coffee concentrate stronger than regular coffee?

Yes, cold brew concentrate is stronger in terms of coffee flavor. You can dilute it to your preferred strength when serving.

2. Can I use any type of coffee bean for cold brew?

While you can use any coffee bean, it's best to choose high-quality beans and experiment to find the flavor profile you love. We love the Brazil Fazeinda Rainha Single Origin Roast. 

3. How long can I store cold brew coffee concentrate?

Cold brew concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks without losing its quality.

4. Is cold brew coffee less acidic?

Yes, cold brew coffee is less acidic than hot-brewed coffee, making it a gentler option for your stomach.

5. Can I heat cold brew concentrate for a hot coffee?

Absolutely! You can heat cold brew concentrate and mix it with hot water or milk to enjoy a warm cup of coffee.