Why You’ll Love this Cold Brewed Coffee Concentrate Recipe
If you’re like me and crave a revitalizing coffee experience, you’ll love this cold brewed coffee concentrate recipe.
It’s incredibly easy to make and offers a smooth, rich flavor that’s perfect for hot days.
I appreciate how versatile it is—I can enjoy it straight or mix it with milk or my favorite flavored syrups.
The best part? It’s less acidic, which means my stomach feels great afterward.
I love having a jar in the fridge, ready for those moments when I need a quick caffeine boost.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it!
Ingredients of Cold Brewed Coffee Concentrate
When it comes to making cold brewed coffee concentrate, the ingredients are really simple and straightforward. You don’t need to hunt down any fancy items or obscure spices—just a couple of common ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. That’s one of the things I absolutely love about this recipe.
You can whip it up with minimal fuss, and it’s perfect for keeping you refreshed on those warm days when hot coffee just won’t do. So, let’s explore what you’ll need to get started.
Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 cups of finely ground coffee
- 4 cups of filtered water
Now, you might be wondering why we specifically need finely ground coffee. Well, the grind size is essential for extracting all those rich flavors during the brewing process. If it’s too coarse, you might end up with a weak brew, and nobody wants that.
Also, using filtered water can make a difference in taste. Tap water can sometimes have minerals or chemicals that alter the flavor of your coffee, and who wants to ruin their caffeine fix with that? So, grab your favorite coffee beans and make sure to use good water—you’ll thank yourself later when you taste the smooth, delicious results.
Plus, if you’re like me and love a little experimentation, consider trying different coffee beans to find your perfect blend. It’s a fun way to customize your cold brew experience.
How to Make Cold Brewed Coffee Concentrate
Making cold brewed coffee concentrate is as easy as pie, and trust me, you don’t need to be a barista to get it right. So, let’s dive right into the process.
First things first, grab 1 1/2 cups of finely ground coffee. Now, I know what you might be thinking—why finely ground? Well, if you want all those yummy flavors to come out, you need to have the right grind size. Coarse coffee might leave you with something that tastes more like flavored water than the caffeine nectar you were hoping for.
Next, you’ll want to mix that coffee with 4 cups of filtered water in a large jar or pitcher. Just dump it all in and give it a little stir.
Now, here comes the fun part. After about 4 hours, you’ll notice that the coffee grounds start to float to the top—like little coffee islands. It’s a sight to behold. Give it a good stir to remix everything.
Once that’s done, cover your jar or pitcher and let it sit at room temperature overnight. Yes, overnight! I know the wait can be torturous, especially when you’re craving that coffee goodness. But patience is key here; it allows those flavors to fully develop.
The next day, it’s time to strain your coffee concentrate. Find a clean jar or pitcher (you know, the one that’s been lurking in the back of your cupboard) and a triple-fold of muslin or a fine mesh strainer.
Pour the mixture through the fabric and, by all means, give it a good squeeze to extract every last drop of liquid gold. Don’t be shy; that’s where all the flavor hangs out.
Once strained, pop it in the fridge, and it’ll be good for at least a week—if you can resist drinking it all before then.
When you’re ready to enjoy, mix it up using a 1 to 2 ratio: one part coffee concentrate to two parts cold water. Or get fancy and freeze some into ice cubes—just promise me you won’t water down your drink with regular ice. That’s just asking for trouble.
Enjoy your cold brew, and remember, you made this magic happen!
Cold Brewed Coffee Concentrate Substitutions & Variations
After you’ve mastered the art of making cold brewed coffee concentrate, you might want to get a little creative with it.
You can experiment with different coffee beans, like a smooth Brazilian or a fruity Ethiopian, to change the flavor profile.
Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist, or even a splash of vanilla extract for sweetness.
If you’re feeling adventurous, mix in some cocoa powder for a mocha vibe.
You can also substitute regular water with milk or a non-dairy option for a creamier taste.
The possibilities are endless, so have fun and enjoy the process!
What to Serve with Cold Brewed Coffee Concentrate
Looking for the perfect pairings to enjoy with your cold brewed coffee concentrate?
I love serving it alongside a slice of rich chocolate cake or a buttery croissant. The coffee’s smoothness beautifully complements the sweetness of pastries.
If you prefer something savory, a cheese platter with sharp cheddar and creamy brie works wonderfully.
For a lighter option, fresh fruit like berries or citrus adds a rejuvenating touch.
I also enjoy sipping my cold brew with a homemade breakfast sandwich—nothing beats that combo!
Experiment and find what delights your palate; the options are endless and oh-so-enjoyable.
Additional Tips & Notes
While brewing your cold coffee concentrate, it’s essential to pay attention to the grind size of the coffee beans.
I find that a coarser grind works best, as it prevents over-extraction and bitterness.
After straining, don’t forget to give the grounds a good squeeze to extract every drop of flavor.
If you want to get creative, try adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla during the brewing process for extra depth.
Remember to store your concentrate in the refrigerator, and it’ll stay fresh for about a week.
Finally, freezing some in ice cube trays is a great way to keep your drinks cold without dilution!