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Ingredients
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Coffee Base
Optional Add-ins (serve on side)
Method
Brewing and Holding
- 1
Preheat and measure
Preheat the 96-oz airpot or thermal box by filling it with hot tap water, swishing for 1 minute, then discard the water. This helps keep the coffee hot longer. Measure 12 tablespoons (approximately 3/4 cup) of coarsely ground coffee.
- 2
Heat water
Bring 96 ounces (3 quarts / 2.8 liters) of water to a boil, then remove from heat and let sit 30 seconds so temperature falls to about 200°F (93°C). If using a commercial brewer, use the brewer's recommended hot-water setting for full volume.
- 3
Brew by immersion (box/airpot method)
Place the measured coffee grounds in a large heatproof brewing container or directly into a paper or cloth filter basket sized for 96 oz if available. Slowly pour the hot water evenly over the grounds, saturating all grounds. If using immersion (like a large French press or steeping basket), stir gently to ensure even extraction, then let steep 4 minutes. If using drip equipment, run a standard brew cycle to produce 96 oz.
- 4
Filter and transfer
After 4 minutes of immersion, immediately separate grounds from brewed coffee by pressing (French press) or pouring through a large filter. Transfer brewed coffee into the preheated 96-oz airpot or thermal box to maintain temperature. If using a commercial thermal box, pour carefully to avoid spills.
- 5
Serve and hold
Keep the coffee covered and on the thermal dispenser. Coffee will serve 8–10 (about 9–12 oz per serving). Provide sugar, milk/cream, and flavored syrups on the side so guests can customize. If coffee must be held beyond 1–2 hours, keep it on low heat or in a hot server designed for coffee; avoid prolonged high-heat holding which accelerates bitterness.