Cold brew coffee has exploded in popularity in recent years—and for good reason. With its smooth, low-acid profile and refreshing chill, cold brew is a perfect option for hot days, slow mornings, or anyone who prefers a gentler but still bold cup. And despite what you might think, it’s incredibly easy to make at home.

A Brief History of Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew might seem like a trendy invention, but its roots stretch back centuries. Some of the earliest records of cold brewing trace back to 17th-century Japan, where Kyoto-style slow-drip towers created a mesmerizing (and delicious) method for cold coffee extraction. It also appeared in Dutch naval history, where cold brew was used for long sea voyages due to its stability and low acidity.

The modern resurgence of cold brew in cafés and grocery store shelves really took off in the 2010s, but its appeal is timeless—smooth flavor, easy preparation, and a long shelf life.

How to Brew Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew works by steeping coffee grounds in cold or room-temperature water over a long period of time, typically 12–18 hours. This slow extraction process results in a smooth, chocolatey, and naturally sweeter flavor profile compared to traditional hot brews.

What You’ll Need:

• Coarsely ground coffee

• Cold or room-temperature filtered water

• A large jar, pitcher, or cold brew maker

• Fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth, or coffee filter

• Patience

Coffee-to-Water Ratio:

A good starting point is 1:8 for a ready-to-drink brew, or 1:4 for a strong concentrate that you can dilute later.

• For ready-to-drink:

  • 125 grams (about 1 ¼ cups) of coffee

  • 1 liter (about 4 ¼ cups) of water

• For concentrate:

  • 125 grams (about 1 ¼ cups) of coffee

  • 500 ml (about 2 cups) of water

  • Later, mix 1:1 with water, milk, or a milk alternative to serve

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Add coarsely ground coffee to your container.

2. Pour in cold or room-temp water, making sure all grounds are saturated. Stir gently.

3. Cover and steep at room temperature or in the fridge for 12–18 hours.

   • 12 hours for a lighter brew, 18 for a stronger extraction.

4. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, cheesecloth, or coffee filter into a clean container.

5. Store in the fridge for up to a week.

6. Serve over ice, or mix with milk, water, or your favorite creamer.

Tips for the Best Cold Brew:

• Use a coarse grind—too fine and you’ll end up with cloudy, over-extracted coffee.

• Use filtered water for a cleaner taste.

• Try different bean origins—cold brew brings out chocolatey and nutty notes beautifully.

• Make a big batch and store it—it gets better after a day or two in the fridge!

In Summary

Cold brew is proof that great coffee doesn’t have to be complicated. With roots in ancient Japan and Dutch exploration, this method has stood the test of time for its convenience and flavor. Brewed slowly and served cold, it’s smooth, versatile, and perfect for anyone who loves coffee without the bite.