Bent Paddle Cold Press Recipe

1. Measure & Grind

If using whole beans, measure 1 cup dark roast coffee and grind to a coarse, even consistency similar to raw sugar. Consistent coarse grounds minimize over-extraction and sediment.

2. Combine Coffee and Water

In a large airtight container or jar, combine the 1 cup of coarsely ground coffee with 4 cups of cold filtered water. Stir gently to ensure all grounds are saturated and mixed evenly.

3. Steep

Seal the container and let the mixture steep at room temperature or in the refrigerator for 12 to 16 hours. 12 hours yields a cleaner, brighter cold press; 16 hours gives a stronger, more concentrated extraction.

4. Strain

After steeping, strain the coffee through a fine mesh strainer lined with cheesecloth or a dedicated coffee filter into a clean pitcher. Pour slowly to reduce agitation and avoid clogging; repeat filtration if necessary to remove fine sediment.

5. Dilute Concentrate

The strained liquid is a cold brew concentrate. Pour 1 part concentrate into a serving glass and add about 1 part cold water (use approximately 1 cup concentrate to 1 cup cold water), adjusting to taste. For the recipe quantities above, start with 3/4 to 1 cup concentrate to 1 cup water depending on desired strength.

6. Add Ice

Fill the serving glass with 1 to 2 cups of ice cubes (or as desired). Pour the diluted cold brew over the ice to chill immediately.

7. Optional Sweeten & Finish

If you like sweetened coffee, stir in 2 tablespoons simple syrup (or to taste). For a creamier finish, add 2 tablespoons milk, oat milk, or cream and stir gently. For a citrus aromatic twist, express an orange or lemon peel over the glass and drop it in.

8. Serve & Store

Serve immediately over ice. Store any remaining concentrate in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 7–10 days. Shake gently before using because natural settling can occur.

9. Vanilla Bent Paddle: Add 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract to the serving glass or stir into the concentrate before refrigerating. Nitro-style: For a creamy mouthfeel, charge the diluted cold brew with nitrogen using a whipped cream dispenser following the manufacturer's instructions.