Liputan6.com, Jakarta Have you ever wondered how to make cold brew at home? Cold brew coffee is one of the most popular drinks for people who love smooth and refreshing flavors. Many coffee lovers prefer it because it has less acidity compared to hot coffee and can be enjoyed in many different ways.
Cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for a long period of time. This slow brewing process makes the drink less bitter and smoother. Unlike hot coffee, which extracts flavors quickly, cold brew extracts flavors slowly, giving it a rich and balanced taste.
In this article, you will learn how to make cold brew in two ways: the classic method and the French press method. You will also learn how to make latte with your cold brew coffee and some extra tips to help you success with your try. We gathered these guides from various sources, Monday (15/9/2025).
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How to Make Cold Brew Coffee
If you want to learn how to make cold brew coffee at home, you can follow this easy guide:
Ingredients and Tools
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
- 4 cups cold filtered water
- A large jar or container with a lid
- A fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth
- A mixing spoon
Instructions
1. Place the coarsely ground coffee into the jar or container. Make sure that the grounds are spread evenly at the bottom.
2. Slowly pour the cold filtered water over the coffee grounds, allowing the water to fully cover them.
3. Stir gently with a spoon until all the grounds are wet and no dry clumps remain.
4. Cover the container tightly with the lid to prevent odors from the fridge from entering.
5. Put the jar in the refrigerator and let it steep for 12 to 18 hours without disturbing it.
6. After steeping, carefully strain the mixture using a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into another clean container.
7. Store the finished cold brew in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and tasty for up to one week.
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How to Make Cold Brew Coffee With a French Press
A French press is another easy way to make cold brew coffee. It works as both the brewing and filtering tool, so you don’t need many extra items.
Ingredients and Tools
- 1 cup coarsely ground coffee beans
- 4 cups cold filtered water
- A French press
- A spoon
Instructions
1. Put the ground coffee into the bottom of the French press. Make sure it is spread evenly.
2. Pour the cold filtered water slowly over the grounds, covering them completely.
3. Stir the mixture gently with a spoon so that the coffee and water combine well.
4. Place the lid on the French press, but do not push down the plunger yet.
5. Put the French press in the refrigerator and let it steep for 12 to 18 hours.
6. After steeping, press the plunger down slowly and evenly to filter out the coffee grounds.
7. Pour the cold brew into a clean container for storage or directly into a glass with ice to enjoy immediately.
How to Make Latte With the Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew can be enjoyed on its own, but turning it into a latte makes it creamier and more filling. A cold brew latte is easy to make at home and tastes just like the ones you get from coffee shops.
Ingredients
- 1 cup cold brew coffee
- 1/2 cup milk or milk alternative
- Ice cubes
- Sweetener (optional)
Instructions
1. Fill a tall glass with plenty of ice cubes to keep the drink chilled for longer.
2. Pour in the cold brew coffee slowly so it spreads evenly over the ice.
3. Add the milk or milk alternative, letting it mix naturally with the coffee for a smooth, layered look.
4. Stir well with a spoon or straw until the milk and coffee are fully blended together.
5. Taste the drink and add sweetener if you prefer it a little sweeter.
6. Give it one last gentle stir, then enjoy your refreshing cold brew latte right away.
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Tips to Make Cold Brew Coffee
Cold brew coffee is simple, but there are small tricks that can make it taste even better. These tips will help you get the best flavor and freshness from your homemade drink.
- Choose Coarse Grind: A coarse grind allows water to move slowly between the coffee particles, which helps prevent bitterness and ensures your cold brew comes out smooth and well-balanced.
- Adjust the Ratio: If you like strong coffee, increase the amount of grounds slightly. For a lighter taste, reduce the coffee. This way, you can match the strength to your preference.
- Use Filtered Water: Cold brew is mostly water, so using clean filtered water removes any unwanted tastes or odors, allowing the coffee’s natural flavors to shine through in every sip.
- Store Properly: Keep your cold brew in a tightly sealed container inside the refrigerator. This prevents it from absorbing other food smells and keeps it tasting fresh for up to one week.
- Experiment With Flavors: Add cinnamon sticks, vanilla pods, or citrus peels during the steeping process. These natural additions will gently infuse your cold brew with unique and exciting flavor twists.
- Serve in Different Ways: Cold brew is versatile. You can enjoy it with milk, mix it with sparkling water for a fizzy drink, or even use it as an ingredient in desserts.