Preparing cold brew coffee is one of the most refreshing and smooth ways to enjoy coffee in summer. If you’re wondering how to make cold brew coffee, the key is patience: a slow cold infusion that results in a less acidic, sweeter drink with a silky texture.
In this guide from Cafés El Magnífico we explain what it is, how to make it at home and which coffee to use to achieve the best result.
What is cold brew coffee?
Cold brew coffee is also known as cold coffee, cold brew coffee or cold infusion coffee. It is a beverage obtained by cold maceration of coffee.
Unlike traditional coffee, no heat is needed: the magic happens with time, patience and good raw materials. As a result, the beverage has very different nuances in the cup than a hot infusion. You will be surprised by the texture in the mouth, the balance of acidity in the cup and the taste of dehydrated fruit that this preparation provides.
How is it different from traditional coffee?
It is clear that espresso or filter coffee, which use hot water to quickly extract the flavours of the coffee. Cold brew, on the other hand, is prepared using a cold infusion that lasts between 12 and 24 hours. The result?
- A less acidic and sweeter coffee
- A silky texture and a round, heavy body
- Higher caffeine content than any hot preparation.
Benefits of cold brewed coffee
As well as being refreshing, cold infused coffee has some irresistible advantages:
- Less acidity: ideal for sensitive stomachs.
- It keeps well: you can prepare it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Versatile: it can be drunk on its own, with milk, vegetable drinks or even as a base for cocktails.
How to make cold brew coffee at home?
There are various ways to make cold brew coffee at home. Below, we’ll show you two simple methods for achieving a professional-quality result without the need for a specialised coffee maker. Here are two methods: one using Japanese drip coffee makers such as the Oji or Shizuku, and another more homely approach, ideal for any kitchen.
Drip method (Oji or Shizuku coffee makers)
This method involves allowing the water to drip slowly over the ground coffee. It is ideal for producing a clean brew with floral notes, a light body and a silky texture.
Recommended ratio:
- Ratio: 1:10 (100 g of coffee to 1 litre of water)
- Grind: medium-coarse
- Water: cold or at room temperature
- Time: 6 to 8 hours
El Magnífico Advice. Try to maintain a steady drip (1 drop every 1–2 seconds) to ensure a more balanced extraction. If you use ice, the result will be even fresher and more aromatic.
Home method (Toddy type or total immersion)
It is the most accessible method and the one most commonly used at home. It involves leaving the coffee in direct contact with the water for several hours. The result is a more intense and concentrated cold brew, which can then be diluted to taste.
Ingredients:
- 250 g coarsely ground coffee
- 2.5 litres of cold water
- A large container with a lid or a juga
Preparation:
- Mix the ground coffee with the water in the container.
- Tapa y deja reposar entre 8 y 16 horas a temperatura ambiente o en la nevera.
- Cover and leave to stand for 8 to 16 hours at room temperature or in the fridge.
- Add a bypass: add 2 litres of cold water to the concentrate for a balanced, ready-to-serve cold brew.
- Serve with ice, a slice of orange or a splash of vegetable milk, if you feel like softening it up.
How long does cold brew coffee take to make?
The brewing time for preparing cold brew coffee is one of the most important factors in the final result.
The usual brewing time is between 8 and 24 hours, depending on the desired strength. However, the sweet spot is usually between 12 and 16 hours.
- Less than 8 hours: weak, underdeveloped flavour.
- 12–16 hours: ideal balance between sweetness, body and smoothness.
- More than 18–24 hours: more intense profile, with a possible increase in bitterness.
Throughout the process, it is advisable to keep the mixture cold to better preserve the aromas.
What coffee should you use to make cold brew?
Choosing the right coffee is key to achieving a good result.
We recommend using freshly ground speciality coffee, coarsely ground to a texture similar to coarse salt, to avoid over-extraction.
As for the profile:
- Coffees with fruity or floral notes add freshness.
- Chocolatey coffees offer a sweeter, more balanced result.
- Medium or medium-light roasts are the most recommended.
Cold brew enhances the sweet nuances of the coffee and softens the acidity, so the quality of the bean has a direct impact on the final result.
Cafés el Magnífico brings you the best speciality coffee
Preparing cold brew coffee isn’t just a summer recipe, but a different way of experiencing coffee. Its slow and careful preparation allows you to discover unique nuances and enjoy a smooth, refreshing and versatile drink.
At Cafés El Magnífico, we work with speciality coffees selected at source so that you can enjoy preparations such as cold brew of the highest quality. If you’d like to explore further, you can discover our coffees ideal for cold brewing in our online shop.