Easy Cold Brewed Coffee Recipe
Introduction
Easy cold brewed coffee is a simple way to enjoy smooth, rich coffee without the bitterness of hot brewing. This method requires just a few ingredients and patience, resulting in a refreshing coffee concentrate perfect for any time of day.

Ingredients
- 2 cups ground coffee
- 3 1/2 cups water
- Milk, to taste
- Water, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large jug, combine 2 cups of ground coffee with 3 1/2 cups of cold water. Cover the jug with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 12 hours to steep.
- Step 2: Place a paper coffee filter inside a metal strainer set over a large bowl or jug. Slowly pour the coffee mixture through the filter, allowing the liquid to strain without letting any grounds pass through. This should yield about 2 cups of coffee concentrate.
- Step 3: To serve, fill a glass halfway with the coffee concentrate. Dilute by adding milk or water to taste.
- Step 4: Enjoy your smooth, cold brewed coffee!
Tips & Variations
- Use coarsely ground coffee for a cleaner, less bitter brew.
- Experiment with steeping times between 10 to 16 hours for stronger or milder concentrate.
- For a flavored twist, add a cinnamon stick or vanilla pod during the steeping process.
Storage
Store the coffee concentrate in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Before serving, stir or shake well, and dilute with milk or water as desired. Cold brew can be enjoyed chilled or over ice.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use hot water instead of cold for brewing?
No, cold brew coffee requires cold water and a long steep to create its smooth flavor. Using hot water will create a traditional brewed coffee and won’t produce the same taste.
How strong is the coffee concentrate?
The concentrate is quite strong and is meant to be diluted with milk or water before drinking, usually at a ratio of about 1:1 depending on your taste preference.
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Easy Cold Brewed Coffee Recipe
- Total Time: 12 hours 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups of cold brew coffee concentrate 1x
Description
A simple and refreshing recipe for homemade cold brewed coffee that delivers a smooth, rich coffee concentrate. This easy method requires only coffee grounds, water, and optional milk or water for dilution, perfect for a cool caffeinated boost.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups Ground Coffee
- 3 1/2 cups Cold Water
- Milk, to taste (optional)
- Water, to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Combine Coffee and Water: In a large jug, mix 2 cups of ground coffee with 3 1/2 cups of cold water. Cover the jug with plastic wrap to prevent contamination and let it steep at room temperature for 12 hours, allowing the coffee to slowly brew.
- Filter the Coffee Concentrate: Place a paper coffee filter inside a metal strainer. Slowly pour the steeped coffee mixture through both filters into a large bowl or another jug. Pour gently and in small amounts to avoid coffee grounds passing through. This process yields about 2 cups of concentrated cold brew coffee.
- Serve and Dilute: Pour the coffee concentrate into a glass, filling it halfway. Top off the remaining half with milk or water according to your preference to dilute the strong concentrate to your desired strength.
- Enjoy Your Cold Brew: Stir the mixture gently, add ice if desired, and enjoy your smooth, refreshing cold brewed coffee.
Notes
- Use coarsely ground coffee for optimal extraction and ease of filtering.
- Steeping at room temperature for 12 hours yields the best flavor, but you can adjust the time slightly for stronger or milder coffee.
- Filter slowly and carefully to avoid grounds in the final concentrate.
- Cold brew coffee concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week.
- Adjust milk and water quantities to your taste when serving.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 hours (steeping)
- Category: Beverage
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Cold Brew Coffee, Cold Brewed Coffee, Iced Coffee, Coffee Concentrate, Slow Brew Coffee

