January 17, 2023 2 min read

What is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew coffee is simply coffee brewed with cold water instead of hot.

How is Cold Brew different from Hot Brewed coffee?

Because hot water dissolves the coffee more easily, it takes longer to brew for cold brew. Brewing with cold water takes time. 

For people that don't like coffee, these two things are the most disliked part of coffee. So cold brew coffee could be for you.

What's the taste difference between cold brew and hot brew coffee?

Brewing with cold water means the coffee has a lot less acidity and bitterness than hot brewed coffee. For people that don't like coffee these two things are the most disliked part of coffee. So cold brew coffee could be for you. The main difference you will notice straight away is it tastes smooth and mellow. 

How do I make Cold Brew Coffee?

Like anything, if it's easy, you're more likely to do it. So while homespun cold brew methods may seem doable, nothing beats a proper cold brew set-up. And for the cost, it's totally worth it!

Our biggest selling homebrew set-up is Toddy Home Cold Brew System for around £40 all in.

A cheaper alternative and great if you have an Aeropress is the Puck Puck.

And for more of a connoisseur experience, the Bruer uses the drip method.

How can I drink Cold Brew Coffee?

If you like just straight-up black cold brew, then making a ready to drink brew is for you. Stick it in the fridge, and it's good for two weeks.

If you like to mix it up, then make a concentrate and stick it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks, ready to add your favourite ingredients.

Stick Cold Brew recipes into Google, and you will open up a world of possibilities. From cocktails (my favourite!) to cold coffees and hot coffee alternatives. A great start is Toddy's recipes area 

Add cold milk, oat milk, almond milk, cream, anything you like to make a great delicious, refreshing cold brew at home.

What coffee is best for Cold Brew Coffee?

I've used all sorts of coffee for cold brew. 

My general rule of thumb is this: 

  • If you like black ready to drink cold brew, get a high grown coffee, a light roast from Kenya would be great.
  • If you like to add to your cold brew, then a medium espresso blend is spot on.

Cold Brew coffee is a great refreshing coffee to have in warmer months of the year or as an alternative to hot coffee where you don't like the bitterness or acidity.