Cold Brew Coffee is a great way to enjoy a cup of coffee during the warmer months or on those busy mornings. It’s easy to make if you have the right tools.
I was sent a Cold Brew Coffee Maker for free in return for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are completely my own.
Now that the weather is warming up, a cup of hot coffee isn’t always welcome on a hot summer day. Instead, having a cold brew coffee is much preferred and you don’t need any special equipment.
Cold brew coffee is also great for those who have busy mornings. Instead of having to wait for the coffee machine to warm up, your coffee is ready to pour. Just add your creamer and it’s done. Justin uses this when he knows he needs to be out of the house early and wants to save time.
Making cold brew coffee works well for those who may not have a chance to drink their coffee right away since you aren’t worried about keeping it hot. If it gets warm, just add a few pieces of ice. It’s the easiest way to have coffee ready to go in the morning.
We’ve also used this when we went camping with the Cub Scouts. We prepare the coffee before leaving and let it sit in the cooler overnight. In the morning, we have coffee ready to go without having to get a fire going. This also makes it safer since we aren’t trying to light a fire before having our morning coffee! Also, since Scouts is about sustainability, we aren’t using a paper filter for cold brew coffee.
Not to mention, it makes a great addition to the shelves on our Coffee Bar!
What is a Cold Brew Coffee Maker?
A cold brew coffee maker is a simple brewing system designed to steep coarse coffee grounds in cold or room-temperature water for an extended period of time, usually between 12 and 24 hours. Unlike traditional coffee makers that use heat and pressure, a cold brew system relies on time to extract a smooth, less acidic flavor. Most cold brew makers come with a filter basket or mesh insert that keeps the grounds separate from the liquid, making it easy to pour and enjoy once the brewing process is complete.
Cold Brew Coffee Options & Tips
There are a few ways you can use the cold brew method to make your morning cup of coffee. To achieve the smoothest flavor, always use freshly ground coffee beans and filtered water. A coarse grind prevents over-extraction and makes it easier to filter out the grounds. Steeping longer than 24 hours may create a bitter taste, so be sure to strain your cold brew within the recommended time. Store the concentrate in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
- Purchase cold brew concentrate from your favorite local coffee shop and mix it according to the instructions.
- Make a big batch of cold brew coffee, then move it to a mason jar per person or per day for storage.
- Buy whole beans at the grocery store and grind them yourself in a coffee grinder for a fresh coffee flavor. It works best with coarse coffee grounds.
- Use pre-ground coffee that you use for regular coffee in a drip machine to make a glass of cold brew.
- Try using a milk alternative instead of water, such as almond milk, oat milk, coconut milk, or cashew milk.
- Make coffee ice cubes by freezing coffee. Add this to your cold-brewed coffee to keep it cool without it getting watered down.
- Use your favorite brewing methods, whether that’s a drip coffee machine or a Keurig, to make coffee, then let it chill in the carafe.
- If you find that you still have coffee grounds in your cup of coffee, run them through a piece of cheesecloth or a fine-mesh strainer before pouring it into your glass.
- If you want to use your own infuser, make sure you have a coffee-to-water ratio of 1 part coffee grounds to 16 parts water. This will make an average cup of ground coffee. If you want yours stronger, add more coffee grounds. It’s up to your personal preference for the taste of your coffee.
The Best Coffee Grind Size for Cold Brew
One of the most important factors in making great cold brew is using the correct grind size. Coarse grounds are ideal because they allow the coffee to extract slowly without creating bitterness or excessive sediment.
A coarse grind should resemble raw sugar or small breadcrumbs. Finely ground coffee can clog filters, make straining difficult, and result in a muddy texture. If purchasing coffee specifically for cold brew, many coffee shops can grind the beans to a cold brew setting for you.
Best Coffee-to-Water Ratio for Cold Brew
A common ratio for cold brew is one cup of coarsely ground coffee to four cups of water. This creates a strong concentrate that can be diluted with water, milk, or cream when serving. If you prefer a lighter brew, try using one cup of coffee to five or six cups of water. Experimenting with ratios is the best way to find the perfect balance for your taste.
How to Serve Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew concentrate is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. You can serve it over ice with a splash of milk or cream for a classic taste, or mix it with flavored syrups such as vanilla or caramel for a sweeter drink. Cold brew can also be used as the base for iced lattes, blended frappes, or even coffee cocktails. If the concentrate is too strong, simply dilute it with equal parts water before serving.
How Long Should Cold Brew Steep?
Cold brew develops its signature smooth flavor through a long steeping process. Most cold brew coffee makers recommend steeping for at least 12 hours. For a stronger concentrate, many people extend the brewing time to 18 or even 24 hours.
Shorter steeping times typically produce a lighter flavor, while longer steeping times create a richer and more concentrated coffee. The ideal brewing time often depends on the coffee beans used and your personal taste preferences.
How to Dilute Cold Brew Concentrate
Many cold brew coffee makers produce a concentrate rather than a ready-to-drink beverage. If your cold brew tastes too strong, simply dilute it before serving.
A common starting point is mixing equal parts cold brew concentrate and water. You can also use milk, oat milk, almond milk, or cream depending on your preferences. Adjust the ratio until you find the flavor strength that works best for you.
Common Cold Brew Maker Mistakes to Avoid
Several common mistakes can affect the flavor of homemade cold brew. Using finely ground coffee is one of the biggest issues because it can create bitterness and sediment. Another mistake is not allowing enough steeping time, which may result in weak coffee.
Using poor-quality water can also impact flavor since coffee is primarily made of water. Finally, forgetting to fully saturate the grounds during setup can lead to uneven extraction and a less flavorful brew.
How to Clean a Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Cleaning your cold brew coffee maker after each batch helps maintain fresh flavor and prevents residue buildup. Remove the filter basket and discard the used grounds immediately after brewing. Wash all removable parts with warm water and mild dish soap.
Pay special attention to mesh filters, as coffee oils can accumulate over time. A soft brush can help remove trapped particles. Allow all components to dry completely before reassembling and storing the coffee maker.
Cold Brew Coffee Maker FAQ
Yes, but medium to dark roast beans tend to bring out the smooth, chocolatey notes that cold brew is known for.
It is safe to steep at room temperature, but refrigerating while brewing helps maintain freshness and prevents any off flavors from developing.
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, cold brew concentrate usually stays fresh for about 7–10 days.
You can, but coarse coffee grounds are recommended. Regular drip coffee grounds are usually too fine and may create sediment or bitterness.
It is not recommended. Most of the flavor is extracted during the first brew, resulting in a weak second batch.
When stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, homemade cold brew is typically best enjoyed within 5 to 7 days.
Yes. Cold brew concentrate can be mixed with hot water to create a smooth hot coffee while retaining many of the flavor characteristics developed during the cold brewing process.
How to Use a Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Using a cold brew coffee maker is surprisingly simple once you understand the basic process. Most cold brew makers include a brewing container, a mesh filter, and a lid. Start by adding coarsely ground coffee to the filter basket. Place the filter into the pitcher and slowly pour cold, filtered water over the grounds. Make sure all of the coffee is saturated before securing the lid.
Allow the coffee to steep for 12 to 24 hours, depending on how strong you want the final brew. Once steeping is complete, remove the filter basket and discard the used grounds. The coffee remaining in the pitcher can be served immediately over ice or stored in the refrigerator for later use. Most homemade cold brew stays fresh for up to one week when refrigerated.
How to Use a Cold Brew Coffee Pitcher
A cold brew coffee pitcher works much like a traditional cold brew maker but is designed for easy brewing and storage in one container. Fill the center filter with coarse coffee grounds and insert it into the pitcher. Slowly add cold water, allowing it to flow through the grounds and into the pitcher.
After filling the pitcher, place it in the refrigerator and let it steep overnight. Many coffee drinkers find that 16 to 18 hours produces a balanced flavor that is smooth without becoming overly strong. When brewing is complete, remove the filter and enjoy the coffee straight from the pitcher. This method is ideal for meal prep because you can make several servings at once.
Originally Published On: March 25, 2020
Last Updated On: June 3, 2026
Cold Brew Coffee Maker Review
I was sent a Cold Brew Coffee Maker from Zulay Kitchen. They gave me a choice of a few different products to try at home. There were so many tempting kitchen gadgets, but this one seemed the most practical for our family. Justin is the only one who drinks coffee, but it can also be used for tea. I have been having a cup of peppermint tea almost every day lately.
While it’s designed and marketed as a cold brew coffee maker, you could also use it with hot water. Right now, I like hot tea, so I wouldn’t use it in the refrigerator. But my dad and sister both like iced tea and traditional iced coffee, so it will be perfect when they visit.
The coffee maker is made of glass and stainless steel, which means it’s more sustainable. Y’all know I don’t like bringing plastic into the house. And because it’s glass, I wouldn’t mind using it for hot drinks. The lid has an airtight seal, so your cold-brew coffee will be good for up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Then again, it has to last that long!
I also like the design of the coffee maker. We are in the middle of making a coffee and tea bar in the dining room, and this looks great on the shelf next to the French Press I found at Ikea.
The infuser works similarly to water bottles I’ve had that are made for infusing fruit into water.
How to Use the Cold Brew Coffee Maker
I don’t even drink coffee, but I had no issues making the cold brew coffee for Justin. It only takes three simple steps that aren’t much different from making a regular pot of coffee.
Use any coffee grounds (or tea leaves) and place them in the center of the infuser. This infuser is a stainless steel fine mesh strainer, so none of the grounds or leaves will get in your drink. Place the infuser inside the glass carafe.
Pour cold water or room temperature water over the top of the coffee grounds. The one-liter carafe can hold up to four cups of coffee or tea.
Place the coffee maker in the refrigerator and leave it there for 12-24 hours to let the coffee steep. I prepared the coffee maker when I was cleaning the kitchen after dinner and it was ready in the morning. If you are saving some for later, remove the grounds and compost those. Place the lid back on to seal and store.
Cold Brew Coffee Leftovers
Storage: Keep your cold brew coffee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Serve the coffee cold with your favorite coffee creamer or toppings.
Cold Brew Coffee Recipe
Cold Brew Coffee
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp coffee grounds
- 4 cups water
Recommended Equipment
Instructions
- Fill the infuser with the coffee grounds
- Place the infuser inside the carafe and fill with water
- Refrigerate at least 12 hours or overnight
- Serve cold with your favorite coffee creamer or add-ins
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutrition content will vary based on brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes, and more.
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I LOVE cold brew coffee. I usually buy it, but I’ve always wanted to just brew it at home. For sure going to be trying this out!
I don’t drink coffee, but Justin loves making it at home! Especially if he knows he is going to have a busy morning or wants it on-the-go.
This will save us $$$ because we’ve been buying ready-made cold brew by the case! It’s been getting warmer here too so definitely time to learn how to make it at home.
Making it from home always costs less! It’s so easy to do, too!
I am not a huge cold brew person but my husband LOVES it! I am for sure showing him this, he will be so excited!
My husband loves it, too! Your husband can always make a pot of it for himself and it will last a bit longer if he’s the only one drinking it 🙂
This looks so so good! I can’t wait to make it, i love cold brew coffee. Thanks a lot.
It’s so much easier than it seems! Happy to share, I hope you enjoy!
I have never drunk a cup of coffee in my life. Can’t stand the taste or smell. My hubby is missing his coffee now he’s working from home but I just can’t abide it. The smell makes me nauseous.
I don’t drink it either. I love the smell (most of the time) but don’t actually like the taste of coffee. My husband drinks it every morning so this was a great option for him.
I’m not a big fan of coffee (I prefer tea) but I think my husband would like this… will have to give it a try when the weather gets warmer!
I prefer tea, too. But only recently when I started drinking peppermint tea every day.
This looks like a great cold brewer! Can it brew tea too? (I am more of a tea drinker)
I haven’t tried it with tea yet but I like my tea hot. I don’t see why it wouldn’t work, though. It’s basically just an infuser so it should work!
That coffee maker sounds great! I have never made cold brew coffee at home, but will give it a try!!!
It’s super easy to make! My husband loves it in the warmer months.
I tried making cold brew coffee in a mason jar but.l it didn’t turn out very good. This looks like a much better alternative! I always prefer iced coffee so it would be a great purchase for me.
I’ve never tried in a mason jar. My husband has always used some type of infuser like this to make his.