How Do You Make Cold Brew Coffee

How Do You Make Cold Brew Coffee? A Simple UK Guide

Cold brew coffee has become one of the most refreshing and smooth ways to enjoy coffee — and the best part? You can make it easily at home with just coffee, water and time. If you’re new to cold brew or want a foolproof method, this guide explains how to make cold brew coffee step-by-step, including ratios, best beans and tips for perfect flavour.

What Is Cold Brew Coffee?

Cold brew is made by steeping coffee grounds in cold water for 12–24 hours, rather than using heat.
This produces a smooth, naturally sweet coffee with lower acidity and a refreshing, clean taste.

It’s also highly versatile — ideal for iced drinks, coffee cocktails or even mixing with milk.

How Do You Make Cold Brew Coffee? (Step-by-Step Guide)

You will need:

  • Medium–coarse ground coffee

  • Cold or room-temperature filtered water

  • A jar, jug or French press

  • A fine strainer or filter

Try any of these beans for excellent cold brew:

⭐ Cold Brew Ratio: Coffee to Water

The standard ratio is:

1:4 coffee to water for concentrate

(Strong, perfect for storing and diluting)

1:8 coffee to water for ready-to-drink cold brew

Method 1: Mason Jar / Jug Cold Brew

Step 1 — Add the coffee

Add 1 cup (around 85–90g) of coarsely ground coffee to a large jar or jug.

Step 2 — Add the water

Pour in 4 cups (1 litre) of cold or room-temperature water.

Step 3 — Stir and refrigerate

Stir gently to ensure the grounds are fully wet.
Cover and refrigerate for 12–24 hours.

Step 4 — Strain

Use a fine mesh strainer, cheesecloth or paper filter to remove grounds.

Step 5 — Serve

Dilute the concentrate with water or milk 1:1 or to taste.

Add ice for a crisp, refreshing drink.

Method 2: French Press Cold Brew

A French press makes cold brew even easier:

  1. Add coarse coffee grounds

  2. Pour in cold water

  3. Stir

  4. Leave to brew for 12–18 hours

  5. Press the plunger slowly

  6. Pour and enjoy

Great for anyone who wants a mess-free method.

Best Coffee Beans for Cold Brew

Cold brew highlights chocolatey, nutty, caramel and fruity notes best.
Here are ideal choices:

How Long Does Cold Brew Last?

Cold brew concentrate lasts:

Up to 10–14 days in the fridge

(Ready-to-drink cold brew: around 4–5 days)

Store in an airtight bottle or mason jar for best freshness.

Cold Brew Variations

Iced Latte Cold Brew

Mix concentrate with cold milk (or oat milk) and ice.

Vanilla Cold Brew

Add vanilla syrup or use Assorted Flavoured Blend Coffee.

Cold Brew Tonic

Mix cold brew concentrate with tonic water for a fizzy, refreshing drink.

Further Reading

Conclusion

Making cold brew at home is simple, budget-friendly and creates a naturally smooth, low-acid coffee that’s ideal for warm weather or everyday drinking. With the right ratio and a little patience, you’ll have delicious, refreshing cold brew ready whenever you want it.

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