Cold Brew Recipe

Combine coffee and water

In a large jar or pitcher (at least 2-quart capacity), add 3 cups coarsely ground coffee. Pour 4 cups cold, filtered water evenly over the grounds. Use a spoon or spatula to gently stir until all grounds are saturated and there are no dry clumps.

Steep

Cover the jar loosely with a lid or plastic wrap. Let the coffee steep at room temperature for 16 to 20 hours (12–24 hours range acceptable). For a brighter, less bitter profile, aim for 12–16 hours; for a fuller, more concentrated brew, 18–20 hours.

Strain the concentrate

After steeping, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve lined with a coffee filter, cheesecloth, or a nut-milk bag into a clean container. If using a sieve + cheesecloth, strain slowly and, if needed, strain a second time to remove fine sediment. You should have a dark cold brew concentrate.

Refrigerate

Cover the container and refrigerate the concentrate for at least 2 hours to chill and allow flavors to settle. The concentrate will keep refrigerated for up to 10 days; best within 5 days.

Dilute to taste

To serve, pour 1 part cold brew concentrate into a glass and add 1 to 2 parts cold water or milk depending on desired strength (common ratio 1:1). For the recipe amounts, start with 1 cup concentrate + 1 cup water/milk to serve one or two people; adjust as needed.

Sweeten and flavor

If desired, stir in simple syrup or other sweetener to taste (start with 1–2 tablespoons per cup of diluted coffee). Add 1 teaspoon vanilla extract or a cinnamon stick while diluting for additional flavor. If using cinnamon stick, remove before serving.

Serve over ice

Fill a glass with ice (about 1 cup), pour diluted cold brew over the ice, stir briefly, and enjoy.

Discard used grounds or compost them. Rinse and wash the jar, sieve, and any reusable filters. Store remaining concentrate sealed in the refrigerator for up to 10 days.