Nutritional Benefits
Cold brew coffee has become increasingly popular for its strong, smooth flavor, but there are many other benefits as well. It has nearly double the amount of caffeine compared to normal coffee, which many people appreciate in the morning and late afternoon. Studies have also shown that drinking cold brew coffee provides the body with more antioxidants and healthy compounds than regular brewed coffee. The higher level of caffeine also helps to give some people an extra boost of energy, while the lower acidity levels help to reduce the risk of acid reflux, as well as lessening the bitterness that can be associated with regular hot coffee.
Financial Savings
Many people enjoy the financial savings that come with drinking cold brew coffee. Since cold brew coffee can be made at home in advance, it significantly cuts down on the cost associated with store-bought coffee. Many brands of coffee can cost up to five dollars per cup at a coffee shop. But by making cold brew coffee at home, it can cost as little as two dollars per cup. This savings can really add up when it comes to your monthly budget. It’s also a great way to make sure you always have something on-hand for when that mid-afternoon slump rears its head.
Easy to Make
Another great thing about cold brew coffee is that it’s incredibly easy to make. All you need is coffee grounds, room-temperature water and some sort of filter. It can be made in advance, and the best part is that it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. It also doesn’t require any special equipment, so there’s no need for those expensive coffee makers. Cold brew coffee also isn’t as time consuming as regular hot coffee. It usually takes about 12-24 hours for it to be ready—perfect for those who don’t have much extra time in the mornings.
Smooth Taste
One of the best things about cold brew coffee is the smooth, intense flavor compared to standard drip coffee. Since it uses cold water and a longer brewing process, the flavor of the coffee grounds are slowly extracted, resulting in a full-bodied, yet less acidic cup of joe. This unique flavor is especially popular amongst those who enjoy strong coffee and are looking for a darker roast.
Varieties
Cold brew coffee comes in many different varieties. From regular coffee beans to flavored syrups, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Popular flavors include salted caramel, coconut, hazelnut and even almond. If you prefer a stronger coffee, there are also “concentrates” that can be made ahead of time, which require adding water to the concentrate. This is an easy way to make huge batches of cold brew coffee for events or parties.
New Trend
Cold brew coffee is a growing trend and for good reason. It has numerous benefits, from its health and financial benefits to the variety of flavors and convenience. For those looking for an extra energy boost or simply a smooth cup of coffee, cold brew is definitely the way to go.
Health Benefits
Apart from the amount of caffeine, one of the best benefits of cold brew coffee is the amount of antioxidants and healthy compounds it provides. Studies have shown that cold brew coffee has an increased level of chlorogenic and caffeoylquinic acids, which act as powerful antioxidants and help fight off disease. Coffee is already known to reduce the risk of Type 2 diabetes, Alzheimer’s and heart disease, but the benefits are further increased with cold brew.
Caffeine Content
Cold brew coffee also has a unique advantage when it comes to the amount of caffeine it contains. Compared to regular hot coffee, cold brew has nearly double the amount of caffeine, which can give many people the extra energy boost they need. However, it’s important to be aware of the amount of caffeine one consumes. Too much can lead to jitters and insomnia, so it’s important to be mindful and enjoy cold brew in moderation.
Brewing Process
The cold-brew process, which is what sets cold-brew coffee apart from regular hot coffee, was first developed in Japan. This process involves steeping coarsely ground coffee in cold or room-temperature water over a long period of time, usually anywhere from 12-24 hours. When the water has passed through the grounds, the liquid is filtered and the result is a smooth, strong cup of cold brew coffee.
Experimentation
Part of what makes cold brew coffee so great is how versatile it is. Once you have a basic understanding of how to make it, you can start experimenting with different grinds and steeping times, as well as flavorings and add-ins like coconut milk, almond milk, spices or syrups. So don’t be afraid to tweak the process to find that perfect flavor that you’re looking for.
Serving Ideas
Cold brew coffee is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. It can be served hot or cold and can be used to make coffee-based cocktails, such as an espresso martini or an iced coffee. Cold brew can also be used as an ingredient in DIY cold brew ice cream or coffee cake. There’s no limit to what you can do with cold brew coffee, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
Iced Drinks
For those looking to beat the summer heat, cold brew coffee can be a great way to stay cool. You can make iced coffee drinks or add a splash of cold brew coffee to smoothies, milkshakes and other frozen desserts. You can even freeze cold brew in ice-cube trays for a nice boost of caffeine in iced drinks.
Coffee Cubes
Another great way to enjoy cold brew coffee is by making coffee cubes. Just pour your cold brew into an ice cube tray and freeze. Then when you’re ready for an iced drink, just add the coffee cubes to a glass of milk or almond milk and enjoy. This is a great way to get your caffeine fix while still staying cool and refreshed.
Flavored Syrups
To take your cold brew coffee to the next level, try adding a flavored syrup. Popular flavors like caramel, hazelnut or vanilla can add a delicious sweetness to your coffee. You can also combine different syrups to create a unique flavor. Experiment with different combinations to find a flavor that’s uniquely you.
Deconstructed Iced Latte
For those who prefer a creamy cold brew coffee with a hint of sweetness, try making a deconstructed iced latte. Just add some cold brew, sweetened condensed milk, and an optional flavoring of your choice to a clear plastic cup. Stir it to combine and enjoy the coffee shop experience in the comfort of your own home.
Brewed Concentrates
If you want to make a large batch of cold brew coffee in advance, then brewed concentrates are the way to go. With this method, all you need to do is steep the coffee in cold water for 12-24 hours, strain and store it in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. When you’re ready for a cup of coffee, just add water to the concentrate and you’ve got a freshly brewed cup of cold brew.
Tea Infused Coffee
If you’re feeling adventurous, try making a tea-infused cold brew. Simply add your favorite tea, such as Earl Grey or jasmine green tea, to the coffer grounds and steep for the same amount of time. For an extra flavor boost, you can also add some honey, cinnamon or other spices.
Cocktails & Mocktails
Finally, cold brew coffee can be used to make delicious coffee-based cocktails and mocktails. Simply add a splash of cold brew to cocktails like a vodka espresso martini or a black mojito. For a non-alcoholic mocktail, try making a chilled mocha frappe with some cold brew, bittersweet chocolate and a few other ingredients.
