How to Cold Brew Coffee

Cold brew coffee is now a staple on many cafe menus, but it’s easy to make at home. If you’ve never tried it, you’re in luck because we’re going to share our foolproof recipe. Once you get used to the smooth taste and lower acidity of this coffee style, you may never want to go back to the regular method!

Cold brew is made by steeping coarsely ground coffee beans in cold water for an extended period—typically 12 to 18 hours. This slower extraction process results in a naturally sweet, less acidic coffee concentrate that’s easy on the stomach and full of rich, bold flavor. To make it at home, simply combine 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups of cold, filtered water. Stir gently, cover, and let it steep at room temperature or in the fridge. After steeping, strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth and store the concentrate in the refrigerator for up to a week.

When you’re ready to enjoy, dilute your cold brew with water, milk, or a dairy-free alternative to your taste. You can also customize it with flavor add-ins like cinnamon sticks, vanilla beans, or a splash of maple syrup. Serve it over ice for a refreshing pick-me-up, or warm it up for a smoother alternative to traditional hot coffee.

At Thrive Market, you’ll find organic, sustainably sourced coffee beans—perfect for cold brewing—along with clean creamers and plant-based milks to help you create your ideal cup. Once you get the hang of it, cold brew might just become your go-to brew, no coffee shop line required.

How to Cold Brew Coffee Recipe

Yield: 4 cups
Active Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 12 hours and 5 minutes

Ingredients

1 cup Thrive Market Organic French Roast Whole Bean Coffee, coarsely ground
4 cups water

Instructions

In a 6-cup French press coffeemaker, remove plunger. Add coffee grounds and water; stir until thoroughly mixed. Place plunger on top of the French press (but don’t plunge yet) and store in refrigerator for a minimum of 12 hours. Remove French press from refrigerator and slowly press down on the plunger to push all the grounds to the bottom. Heat or enjoy over ice, diluting with water or creamer as desired.

Cold Brew Coffee FAQ

What’s the difference between cold brew and iced coffee?
Cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for an extended period (usually 12 to 18 hours), resulting in a smoother, lower-acid coffee concentrate. Iced coffee, on the other hand, is brewed hot and then chilled or poured over ice. While both are served cold, cold brew tends to have a bolder flavor and a naturally sweeter finish.

What type of coffee beans are best for cold brew?
You can use just about any coffee beans for cold brew, but medium to dark roasts tend to work best because they offer a richer, smoother flavor. Look for organic, single-origin beans for the cleanest taste, and opt for a coarse grind—similar to raw sugar or sea salt—to prevent over-extraction and make straining easier.

How long should I steep cold brew?

Steep your cold brew for 12 to 18 hours. Less time results in a lighter brew, while a longer steep produces a stronger, more concentrated flavor. Steeping in the refrigerator helps maintain freshness and slows oxidation, but you can also steep at room temperature—just be sure to refrigerate it afterward.

How do I serve cold brew?
Cold brew concentrate is typically diluted 1:1 with water or milk, but you can adjust it based on your taste preferences. Serve it over ice with your favorite plant-based milk or creamer, or try adding a splash of vanilla extract, cinnamon, or maple syrup for an extra flavor boost.

How long does cold brew last in the fridge?
Once strained, cold brew concentrate can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For the freshest flavor, consume within 3 to 5 days.

Is cold brew stronger than regular coffee?
Cold brew concentrate is typically stronger than hot-brewed coffee, but it’s usually diluted before serving. If you’re looking to reduce caffeine, you can dilute it more, use a lighter roast, or try a cold brew made with decaf beans.

Can I heat up cold brew?
Yes! Cold brew is incredibly versatile. If you love the smooth, low-acid taste but prefer a hot drink, simply heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave after diluting. It’s a great option for those who want hot coffee without the bitterness.

Recipe by: Angela Gaines
Photo credit: Paul Delmont