How to Make Delicious Cold Brew Coffee at Home: A Simple Guide

If you’re a fan of cold brew coffee and want to create your own at home, this method is both simple and effective. I’ve been using this technique for over a year, and it consistently produces a rich, flavorful brew that lasts for weeks. Here’s a step-by-step guide to brewing your own cold brew coffee without the hefty price tag.

What You’ll Need

The Brewing Setup:

1. 5-Gallon Food-Grade Bucket with Lid: Easily available at Home Depot.
2. Large 75-Micron Filter Bags: Reusable and easy to clean. Just wash with soap and water and let dry. These filter bags are durable and can be used multiple times.
3. Plastic Spigot: For easy dispensing.
4. Stepped Drill Bit: To drill a hole for the spigot in the bucket.
5. 1-Gallon Measuring Pitcher: Or any large container with a known volume.

The Bottles:

1. Half-Gallon Jugs: For storing your cold brew.
2. Bottle Brush: To keep your jugs clean.

The Coffee:

1. ~80 oz (7 x 12 oz bags): Choose your favorite coffee. I stock up when it’s on sale (Buy-One-Get-One deals at Publix are my go-to).

The Water:

1. 3 – 4 Gallons of Water: For brewing.

Brewing Process

1. Prepare the Filter Bag:

• Place the filter bag inside the assembled bucket. Ensure it’s secure.

1. Add Coffee Grounds:

• Dump all of your coffee grounds into the filter bag.

1. Check the Spigot:

• Make sure the spigot is in the ‘OFF’ position to avoid any spills.

1. Add Water:

• Pour the water into the bucket. After adding the second gallon, use a whisk to break up any clumps of coffee grounds. Be gentle but thorough to ensure all grounds are wet. This also helps to rinse the whisk with the third gallon of water.

1. Let It Brew:

• Cover the bucket with the lid. You have two options for brewing:
  • Refrigerate: Leave the bucket in the fridge for 24 to 36 hours.
  • Countertop: Let it sit on the counter for 12 to 18 hours. The brewing time will affect the strength of your coffee, so adjust according to your taste preference.

Read Also: Discovering the Best Bagels in Burlingame: A Bay Area Gem

Finishing Up

1. Strain the Coffee:

• Use a large colander that fits on top of the bucket to pull out the filter bag. Allow it to drain fully into the bucket to maximize the yield.

1. Bottle the Brew:

• Pour the cold brew into your half-gallon jugs. Fill them to the top to minimize air exposure, which helps keep the coffee fresh.

1. Refrigerate:

• Store the bottled cold brew in the fridge. Note that this concentrate needs to be diluted before drinking.

Serving Your Cold Brew

1. Prepare Your Drink:

• Fill a glass with ice. Pour the cold brew concentrate over the ice. Add water to taste (start with a 1:1 ratio and adjust based on strength preference).
• Add any additional ingredients like cream, sugar, or milk if desired. Stir well.

1. Enjoy!

• Savor your homemade cold brew coffee, perfect for a refreshing pick-me-up.

By following these steps, you’ll have a delicious, cost-effective cold brew coffee that can be enjoyed over several weeks. Happy brewing!