There is nothing quite like the feeling of opening the fridge and finding a jar of homemade cold brew concentrate made with specialty coffee ready to go. Whether you're craving an iced coffee, a creamy latte, or even a coffee infused dessert, cold brew concentrate is one of the most versatile staples you can keep on hand.
The best part? It's easy to make!
What is Cold Brew Concentrate?
Cold brew concentrate is coffee that's brewed slowly with cold water using a higher coffee-to-water ratio than regular brewed coffee. The result is a rich, smooth concentrate with low acidity, naturally sweet flavors, and plenty of flexibility.
Unlike ready-to-drink cold brew, concentrate is designed to be diluted before serving. That hat means one batch can create several different drinks depending on your mood.
How to Make Cold Brew Concentrate
Ingredients
- 16 oz coarsely ground coffee
- 64 oz cold, filtered water
While we suggest these amounts, the main thing to remember is that the ratio is 1:4 coffee to water by weight. This is a great starting point but feel free to experiment with that ratio to better fit your tastes. We know people who do a 1:8 ratio with great results as well.
For the best flavor, start with freshly roasted beans and grind them coarse—similar to raw sugar or coarse sea salt.
Instructions
- Add the ground coffee to a large mason jar, French press, or other brewing container.
- Pour in the water, making sure all the grounds are saturated.
- Stir gently to combine.
- Cover and let the coffee steep for at least 24 hours in the refrigerator.
- Strain through a fine mesh filter, then strain again through a paper filter or a cheesecloth until the concentrate is smooth and free of sediment.
- Store the concentrate in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
How to Serve Cold Brew Concentrate
Because this is a concentrate, you'll usually dilute it before drinking.
A good starting point is:
- 1 part concentrate to 1 part water for classic cold brew
- 1 part concentrate to 2 parts milk for a smooth iced latte
- Adjust the ratio to taste depending on how strong you like your coffee.
Serve over ice and enjoy as-is or add your favorite flavored syrup for an elevated sweet treat.
Creative Ways to Use Cold Brew Concentrate
Classic Iced Coffee
Mix equal parts concentrate and cold water over ice for a refreshing, smooth cup that's perfect any time of day.
Iced Latte
Combine concentrate with your favorite milk—whole, oat, almond, or soy—for a creamy coffeehouse-style drink.
Coffee Tonic
Fill a glass with ice, add tonic water, and slowly pour the concentrate over the top. Garnish with an orange slice for a bright, refreshing twist.
Hot Coffee
Cold brew isn't just for summer. Mix one part concentrate with hot water for a smooth, low-acid hot coffee in minutes.
Coffee Smoothies
Add a splash of concentrate to your morning smoothie for a natural coffee boost that pairs beautifully with bananas, cocoa, oats, or peanut butter.
Coffee Cocktail or Mocktail
Cold brew concentrate makes and excellent base for espresso martinis, coffee old fashioneds, or alcohol-free coffee spritzers.
Dirty Soda
Add a splash of cold brew concentrate to a glass of your favorite lemon-lime soda, cold, or sparkling water over ice. Finish it with a splash of your favorite coffee creamer, sweet cream, or flavored syrup for a fizzy, creamy drink that's both refreshing and energizing.
Baking
Use concentrate to deepen the flavor of brownies, chocolate cake, tiramisu, chocolate frosting, or homemade ice cream. Coffee naturally enhances chocolate, making desserts richer and more complex.
Tips for the Best Cold Brew
- Start with quality, freshly roasted coffee, like ours here.
- Use filtered water for the cleanest flavor.
- Grind coarse to avoid over-extraction and bitterness. If you don't have a grinder, we can coarsely grind it for you.
- Experiment with different origins and roast profiles. Our chocolatey medium roast creates a rich, balanced concentrate, while our medium light roast can highlight fruity and floral notes.
Brew Once, Enjoy All Week
Cold brew concentrate is one of the easiest ways to enjoy café-quality coffee at home. With just a few minutes of prep and an overnight steep, you'll have a versatile coffee base ready for everything from your morning iced latte to your favorite dessert recipe.
If you're looking to make your best batch yet, start with freshly roasted beans from Dignity Roasters. Great coffee begins with great beans, and cold brew is one of the best ways to let those flavors shine.